🦴 Updated on July 7th, 2023
Imagine a day of playing out in the woods with your big four-legged best friend. He’s having the time of his life, running through the mud and the weeds, panting happily as you chase after him. You’re both having a great time.
You realize that you’re all out of shampoo for your German shepherd when you get home. And after a day of playing in the woods, your German shepherd probably needs a good shampoo.
And that’s where we come in. We know you want the best product out there for your furry best bud, and that’s why we’ve found the best shampoo for German shepherds. Your dog will thank you for taking the time to find the best of the best.
Of all the brands we tried, Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo was definitely the best. It’s excellent for dry hair, helps relieve itching, and contains zero sulfates, phthalates, and parabens.
But there’s so much more to explore in the world of German shepherd shampoo. So before you make a final decision about what dog shampoo to get for your German shepherd, take a look at what we’ve discovered.
Best Shampoos for German Shepherds Reviewed
Earthbath
If you’re looking for shampoo for a German shepherd, then Earthbath is undoubtedly your best option. It’s made with all-natural, organic ingredients and completely free of parabens and dyes.
All Earthbath shampoos are manufactured in the United States with sustainable materials. We love how dogs come out of bath time looking and smelling great with this blend.
This is a great option for dog owners looking for shampoo without sulfate, soaps, and artificial dyes. Each bottle contains 16 ounces of shampoo and conditioner.
Some of the best things about Earthbath products include the incredible scent, how it leaves dog coats feeling soft and shiny, and how well it works on sensitive skin.
The shampoo and conditioner may be used in conjunction with one another, or you can use the conditioner on its on-off weeks. This will help dog fur stay clean and soft for more extended periods.
Earthbath’s products reduce the number of times you’ll need to bathe your dog every month. Dogs who typically need a wash two or three times a week can cut down to every other week.
The shampoo and conditioner work exceptionally well for dogs suffering from dry, itchy skin. Even dogs with severe allergies can benefit from the healing power of Earthbath shampoo and conditioner.
We like to view Earthbath products as having potential healing powers. Some dogs with skin so dry that they started to bleed benefitted greatly from having Earthbath products applied regularly in the bathtub.
Even dogs who developed allergies to other shampoos found relief and healing with Earthbath products.
No matter how hairy your dog is, you’ll find that Earthbath is the best after just a few shampoos. It smells nice, rinses well without leaving residue, and leaves your dog looking and feeling great.
Pros:
- Great for dry, itchy skin
- Shampoo and conditioner sold together
- Natural ingredients
- Soothing and moisturizing
Cons:
- Hard to apply
- Hard to rinse
PetHonesty
PetHonesty Chlorhexidine Shampoo is rated very highly as a German shepherd shampoo. It has a pleasant cucumber melon scent that’s not overpowering but leaves your dog smelling fresh and clean.
The combination of chlorhexidine and ketoconazole provides a safe and effective formula to use on your dog’s coat and skin.
PetHonesty prides itself on its veterinary-strength formula that promotes healing and naturally deodorizes and detangles fur. The addition of aloe makes this shampoo highly soothing and comforting for your dog.
If your pup doesn’t like baths in general, this combination can promote calmness and help them to relax while you get them clean.
All ingredients are ethically sourced, and the shampoo is made completely in the United States. It’s certified and made with the highest safety ratings and special attention paid to creating the best product possible.
We love how much you can get out of this shampoo without spending a fortune. It’s been noted to truly combat itchy, flaking skin on dogs that suffer from chronic skin issues. It’s also long-lasting and smells nice for a long time after the bath.
Another great thing about this shampoo is that it has several antibacterial and antifungal properties. Dogs that struggle with skin infections from bacteria benefit from PetHonesty’s gentle, effective formula.
Pros:
- Effectively treats skin problems
- Formula promotes healing
- Aloe integrated for gentleness
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Dandruff might persist
Bark 2 Basics
Bark 2 Basics makes our list for a few very practical reasons. Not only is it highly effective for treating dry skin, but it smells absolutely amazing.
We could go on and on about how great the shampoo smells and how great your dog smells after bath time. Finding a shampoo that works and smells good is definitely an accomplishment.
If you have more than one dog, this shampoo works effortlessly on pups of all kinds. Regardless of the kind of hair or the texture of hair that they have, each dog may find comfort with the shampoo from Bark 2 Basics.
We also love how much you can purchase at one time. The product comes in a gallon-sized container, making it one of the best dog shampoos for German shepherds.
As a big dog, you can imagine that German shepherds need a lot of shampoo from week to week. You’ll rarely run out with this giant jug from Bark 2 Basics.
Another great feature of this shampoo is the concentration level. You can use it on its own or dilute it with water, whatever you prefer.
You can make the shampoo last longer if you dilute it with water, although you don’t have to. And it’s sold at a highly reasonable price, so you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg.
It’s great on dry skin, and it can work as a de-shedding shampoo, even for German shepherds.
All in all, the shampoo from Bark 2 Basics is a great buy. We love the formula and the way it works on all skin types. Even dogs with hotspots have found relief thanks to the healing work of this oatmeal-infused shampoo.
Pros:
- Natural colloidal oatmeal
- Conditions dog’s fur
- Choice of professionals
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Some dogs might be allergic
Healthy Breeds
Healthy Breeds Shampoo mixes chamomile oatmeal with aloe to form a great product designed specifically for your German shepherd.
Even though the formula is catered to German shepherds specifically, it can also be used on other breeds. You’ll be satisfied with this product, and your dog will feel great after bath time.
This shampoo is great for dogs with unruly fur or fur that’s hard to detangle. Even if you love other shampoo companies you'll be more than happy to switch over completely when you stumble upon Healthy Breeds. Not only does it soothe the skin, but it smells great at the same time.
The shampoo is not more expensive than other shampoo brands, and it delivers high quality. In particular, it seems to work wonders on German shepherds.
If your German shepherd has sensitive skin, you can trust Healthy Breeds shampoo to be gentle and calming. There’s no need to worry about making their skin worse, itchy, or dry. It will also keep their fur sleek and shiny, preventing that dulling effect that some shampoos can have.
Pros:
- Specific design for German shepherds
- Deodorizing
- Pleasant scent that lasts
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Topical flea control included
Cons:
- Fragrance is not strong enough
The Coat Handler
The Coat Handler Deshedding Shampoo is an excellent shampoo for dogs and could even be a good shampoo for a German shepherd puppy if that’s what you need.
It relies completely on natural ingredients and works to deep clean, purify, condition, and deodorize your four-legged friend. The formula has been tested for years and is at its best.
Because this shampoo utilizes Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids and vitamin E, it really loosens up dry and dead skin on the undercoat. This makes for a deeper, better clean for your dogs.
The Coat Handler Shampoo is used by dog grooming professionals everywhere and gives our pups the best clean possible.
We love this shampoo because it encourages softness in both the skin and the fur of the dog, it has a marvelous scent, and it works so well, even on sensitive skin.
The value for the price is outstanding, as 128 fluid ounces of shampoo can be used as it is for a full-strength wash, or you can dilute it and make it go farther.
In particular, we enjoy this shampoo and the value we get for our money. When you have a big dog, it’s easy to go through a lot of shampoos at once. When you have multiple big dogs, it’s just a simple fact that you’ll need even more shampoo. This shampoo delivers on those needs.
If you have shedders like us, you’ll love that this shampoo helps relax and release the undercoat. It leaves the dog looking, feeling, and smelling fresh in any circumstances.
Pros:
- Coconut scent
- Works on oily and dry skin
- Cleans gently
- Infused with omega fatty acids
- All-natural ingredients
Cons:
- Huge bottle
- It might cause an allergic reaction
Lilian Ruff
Lilian Ruff Body Wash for Dogs is a hydrating, anti-itch, tear-free shampoo that works for the full coat and a facial cleanser. It’s been tested to brighten your dog’s fur and leave them with a certain amount of luster that other shampoos can’t match.
One of the great things about this shampoo is the 30-day money-back guarantee for every purchase.
You can feel the maker’s confidence in their work when they essentially hand you a risk-free product. The money-back guarantee is supported 100% if you do not have full satisfaction.
The natural blueberry extract scent is an ideal solution for dog owners looking for vegan dog shampoo.
Dog lovers of all kinds love Lilian Ruff and the excellent shampoo that they have produced. From little dogs to big dogs, this shampoo has allowed all kinds of pups to experience the sort of joy that comes from a true, deep cleaning.
In particular, we love the multi-purpose nature of this shampoo which also acts as a facial cleanser. It’s a lot easier to get your dog nice and clean when you can scrub out those tear stains and make their whole coat shine.
Even the dogs have a good time with this stuff. Bath time has never been easier than with Lilian Ruff. For that reason alone, you’ll never go back to using another shampoo. Because the better time the dog is having, the better time everyone is having.
Pros:
- Hydrating
- Adds shine and luster
- Great for itchy skin
- Gentle on the face and eyes
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Not consistently effective for whitening
Vetericyn
Vetericyn FoamCare Medicated Pet Shampoo comes in an easy-to-use spray bottle that allows for direct application on your furry friends. This product comes highly recommended by veterinarians for anyone looking to clear up common skin problems in their dog (or cat).
The medicated solution doesn’t mean the shampoo is full of unnecessary chemicals and parabens. It’s actually 100% chemical-free, and yet it still delivers on its promise to help treat your pet’s sensitive skin and restore it to its former glory.
Pet owners around the world have raved about this medicated foaming shampoo for years. They notice a difference in allergy symptoms, and they love how easy it is to clean tough spots like paws. The spray bottle makes it a breeze.
We noticed a difference on the first day of using Vetericyn. Dogs that previously struggled with itchy skin and bad allergies found relief almost instantaneously.
We appreciate the fact that this shampoo works how it is advertised. When it comes to common, everyday skin issues, this is one of the best shampoos out there. If you’re looking for the best shampoo for your German shepherd, then Vetericyn should be high on that list.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Hypoallergenic
- Anti-itch
- Medicated for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Can cause allergies
Pro Pet Works
Pro Pet Works Shampoo features a five-in-one blend that helps relieve itchy, dry skin and allergic reactions. Dogs who have abnormally dry skin can truly benefit from the oatmeal-based formula.
It’s filled with helpful vitamins and minerals like almond oil, vitamins A, D, E, and B12, and aloe vera gel.
Every ingredient that went into this bottle of shampoo was specifically designed to help alleviate dry skin and reduce itchiness in dogs who really struggle.
For the best results, we recommend several washes with this shampoo. The first lifts cursory oil and other detritus, and the second wash penetrates deeper into your dog’s coat.
Almond oil, in particular, has naturally-occurring vitamin E that helps heal itchy skin. That makes for a more moisturizing shampoo than other leading brands.
If you need shampoo for a German shepherd puppy, this might be one of the better options for you. It encourages softness in the coat and works great on the sensitive skin of all kinds.
Pro Pet users range from professional dog groomers to the everyday dog mom who just wants her puppy to be happy. But we all love the same thing about this shampoo: it works.
There is no beating around the bush with Pro-Pet. We love that you can use this shampoo on all dogs if you have more than one, and we adore the natural aroma it produces. Since the ingredients are natural, there are no unpleasant chemical smells when you pull your dog out of the tub.
Those of us with German shepherds love this one in particular because it works so well on their thick, sensitive skin.
Pros:
- Oatmeal-based
- Tearless blend
- Great for dandruff and allergies
- Relieves itchy skin
- Infused with almond oil
Cons:
- Slow to work
Alpha Dog Series
If you need the best shampoo for a German shepherd puppy, look no further than the Alpha Dog Series. This series features both shampoo and conditioner. It harnesses the power of aloe vera so that it never dries out your puppy’s skin, and it keeps your dog healthy and happy.
If you really want to keep your puppy’s fur soft and smelling like a puppy, then this is the shampoo that you need. It can be a challenge to find a shampoo that works this well on puppy fur, and we highly recommend picking up a bottle or two no matter what kind of dog you have.
We love this product and how gentle it is for puppies. It’s made with all-natural ingredients and fortified with natural fruit extracts. This means you can have confidence applying it to your puppy’s skin, knowing that it comes from safe materials.
Pros:
- Great for puppies
- Moisturizing
- pH balanced
- Tear-free
- Deep clean
Cons:
- The smell may not be pleasant for some
NuLife
NuLife Oatmeal Dog Shampoo comes fresh with soothing aloe vera, cucumber, and a ripe melon scent that will leave your dog looking and feeling great. It’s hypoallergenic, and the special formula provides relief for any dog that suffers from dry, itchy, flaky skin.
NuLife’s excellent shampoo can help dogs that have suffered from skin allergies for years. Even if you've tried to use other oatmeal-based products in the past with no luck you may find that this shampoo is the one that finally gives your dog freedom from the dry, itchy skin.
The aloe vera and oatmeal combination make for a relaxing and soothing experience, helping your dog to enjoy bath time that much more. Since it uses these natural ingredients, you can trust that it’s safe enough for your favorite doggo’s skin and fur.
There really is no better way to treat your dog than to find them that relief. And NuLife brings it in full.
Pros:
- Moisturizing
- Great on dry, itchy skin
- Perfect for dogs with allergies
- Great for all pets
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Leaves residue on fur
What You Want in Dog Shampoo
Choosing the right shampoo for your German shepherd doesn’t have to be a hassle. As long as you know what to look for, then you should have no problem picking out the best product for your furry buddy.
Help Them Get That Itchy Spot
Looking for a shampoo that provides good, anti-itching qualities is one of the best things that you can do for your dog. Any dog suffering from dry skin will attest to this fact.
Always Read the Back
Always try to find shampoos that have good, natural, quality ingredients. A shampoo can be medicated and still be chemical-free, so doing your research beforehand will help you a great deal as you search.
Don’t Go Cheap, For Real
If you’re concerned about price, it’s certainly possible to find quality shampoos that don’t break the bank. But buying shampoo simply because it’s cheap is not a good idea. Your German Shepherd deserves better, and frankly, so do you.
What the pH!
A big part of keeping your dog looking and feeling healthy is making sure the pH balance is just right. So finding a shampoo that helps naturally balance the pH will help your dog immensely. The right shampoo will make sure your dog’s pH does fly out of balance.
Best Shampoo for German Shepherds
So when you’re out and about, looking for the best shampoo for your German shepherd, you can feel confident knowing that you have the best option available. The Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo is, by far, the best product on the market.
This is a great option for dog owners looking for shampoo without sulfate, soaps, and artificial dyes. Each bottle contains 16 ounces of shampoo and conditioner.
Compared to the other shampoos we talked about today, this one offers the best value for the price. The customer reviews are through the roof, touting how wonderfully this shampoo works in alleviating dry, itchy skin.
Not only that, but it leaves your dog’s coat smelling nice and fresh. With all-natural, organic ingredients, you can trust the material that you’re putting on your dog. Plus, the colloidal oatmeal works especially well to combat skin irritation.
Now that you know the best shampoo for your German shepherd, you can go and give them the bath of a lifetime.
