Can I Use Human Shampoo on My Dog?

Why human shampoo is not ideal for dogs

The main issue is pH. The AKC explains that human skin sits around a pH of 5.5, on the acidic side, while dog skin is closer to neutral, roughly 6.2 to 7.4, varying a little by breed. Shampoos are balanced for the skin they are made for, so a human product can upset the protective layer on a dog's skin, which helps keep out bacteria and other problems.

Dog skin is also thinner, with fewer layers of skin cells than human skin, so harsh detergents and strong fragrances irritate it more easily. Over repeated baths, the AKC notes, the result can be dry, flaky skin, itching, rashes and a greater chance of skin infection. The ASPCA adds that human shampoos are not toxic, but some contain fragrances that can irritate.

What about baby shampoo?

Baby shampoo is gentler and tear-free, so it is often suggested as a stand-in. It is still formulated for human skin pH, so it is not a good long-term choice. VCA Animal Hospitals takes the view that human shampoos, including baby shampoos, are too harsh for regular use on pets.

If you are caught without dog shampoo and your dog needs washing, a fragrance-free baby shampoo or very mild human shampoo, used once and rinsed out thoroughly, is unlikely to cause problems in a healthy dog. Do not make it a habit, and buy a dog shampoo before the next bath, such as a dog bath shampoo or a gentle cleansing dog shampoo.

Products to avoid on dogs

Avoid dandruff shampoos and medicated human shampoos, which contain active ingredients not intended for dogs. Avoid strongly scented products, hair dyes, and anything with added essential oils such as tea tree, eucalyptus, pine or peppermint at unknown strengths. Pet Poison Helpline warns that concentrated essential oils can be toxic to dogs, and dogs lick their coats after a bath.

Do not use dish soap as a routine shampoo either; it is designed to cut grease and can strip oils from skin. Never use products meant for cats or for other animals on your dog without checking the label, and never use flea products made for dogs on cats.

What to use instead

Choose a shampoo made for dogs, ideally one labeled as pH-balanced for canine skin, mild and fragrance-free or lightly scented. Oatmeal-based shampoos suit many dogs with dry or sensitive skin. Puppy shampoos are milder still. For specific problems, such as greasy skin, dandruff, infection or allergies, ask your vet, who may recommend a medicated shampoo and a bathing schedule.

Whatever you use, wet the coat thoroughly, lather gently, and rinse much longer than you lather, because leftover shampoo is a common cause of itching after baths. Brushing between baths keeps the coat clean and means you need to shampoo less often.

When to see your vet

If your dog becomes itchy, red, flaky or develops bumps after a bath, rinse it again with plain lukewarm water and stop using that product. Call your vet if the irritation does not settle within a day or two, if your dog is scratching enough to break the skin, or if you see hair loss, scabs or a bad smell.

Also call your vet, or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (a fee may apply), if your dog has licked or swallowed a concentrated essential oil or a medicated product, and especially if it drools, vomits, wobbles or seems weak.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.