When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Here’s how it works.
Nothing can cheer me up faster than a snuggle with my sweet pup. However, that cuddle session can quickly turn sour if he is a stinky boy. While dogs are our best friends, they can become quite smelly creatures, and we owners have to work hard to keep them smelling fresh. While bathing them is always an option, it’s not the best solution to everyday smells. Along with being a big production, bathing your dog too often strips their skin and coat of natural oils that keep it healthy. If you, like me, need something to keep your pup’s odor manageable, consider dry shampoo.
If you’ve never heard of or tried waterless dog shampoo, it may be a game changer for you and your pup. As much as I love my dogs, I don’t love that stinky, wet, or sweaty dog smell. Let’s get into the details of dry dog shampoo and how it can help keep odors off your sweet pup so those cuddle sessions stay sweet. I review and share my picks for the best dry shampoo for dogs.
| Overall | Spray | Powder | Best Foam | Best Smelling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |  |
| Earthbath | Burt’s Bees | Momma Knows Best | Paw Choice | Wahl |
| View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Chewy | View on Amazon | View on Amazon |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
What Is Dry Dog Shampoo?
Waterless and dry shampoos are products that help dogs stay clean between baths. They most commonly are powders, foams, or sprays that are worked through the coat. Dry shampoos for humans are often aerosol sprays, but these do not always work as well with pets.
Ingredients To Avoid
When selecting dry shampoo for your dog, it’s important to pick a product that’s safe for animal use. It’s best to avoid any dry shampoo products made for humans. There are also a few you want to be on the lookout for due to their possibility of health risks. I’ve named a few below, but this is not a complete list. Always research any ingredient in your pet’s shampoo you do not recognize or are concerned about.
- DMDM Hydantoin – A slow-releasing formaldehyde, a low-level carcinogen known to trigger allergies, causes itching, burning, and blistering on the skin. Other forms of formaldehyde include Bromopol, Doazolidinyl urea, Imidazolidinyl urea, Quaternium-7, -15, -31, -61, and Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate.
- Preservatives – Watch out for chemical preservatives like parabens, Isothiazolinones, sodium benzoate, and those that use formaldehyde releasers. Look for those that use natural alternatives like plant extracts.
- FD&C Blue #1 (artificial colors) – Made from petroleum, it has been linked to organ damage, birth defects, allergies, and cancer.
- Fragrance (artificial fragrance) – Generic term of fragrance, often not specified as to what exactly this is on labels.
- Polysorbate 20 – A non-ionic surfactant linked to cancer; can irritate skin, nose, eyes, and airway.
- Ethyl Paraben – Linked to cancer, reproductive, and endocrine issues, and causes contact dermatitis.
- Methyl Paraben – Linked to cancer, reproductive and endocrine issues; causes skin irritation.
- Phthalates – Often buried under the term fragrance, these are hormone disruptors and can damage the endocrine and reproductive system as well as the kidneys and liver.
- Polyethylene glycol (PEG) – This chemical is used in skin care products to help retain moisture but can also be irritating to the skin. PEG also enables other harmful chemicals to cross through the skin and into the blood and can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane or ethylene oxide, known carcinogens. Also, watch out for propylene glycol, another solvent and penetration enhancer that carries harmful chemicals through the skin and into the blood; it is a suspected toxin.
- Cocamide MEA – This surfactant and ammonia compound belongs to a class of chemicals thought to be carcinogenic, and that can impact developmental, reproductive, and organ toxicity.
Best Dry Shampoo For Dogs
Hundreds of products on the market claim to clean your pet, but they don’t all perform the same. I looked at over 20 dry shampoos for pets to find the top performers. I examined ingredients, customer reviews, and company history and spoke with other pet owners and Canine Journal team members to get their input and experience with these products. Here are my top picks.
Best Overall: Earthbath Waterless Hypo-Allergenic Grooming Foam Review
View on Amazon | View on Chewy
You can’t get much better than Earthbath if you want an all-natural, highly effective dry pet shampoo. Earthbath hypoallergenic grooming foam uses all-natural ingredients, including colloidal oatmeal, meadowfoam seed oil, Vitamin E, shea butter, and aloe vera. All ingredients are environmentally friendly, and the formula is paraben- and phosphate-free. This one is safe for all life stages, but you want to avoid contact with both your pet’s and your eyes.
Compared to many others, Earthbath has a very clean formula that is free of many questionable ingredients and possible irritants for your dog. Owners report that it works fantastic for spot cleaning in between baths and for dogs with mobility issues, such as senior pets or those recovering from an injury or surgery.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Natural formula | Some owners do not like the smell or find it ineffective |
| No skin irritation with a sensitive formula | It takes a lot to work on larger dogs |
| Easy-to-use foam | Some owners found it to be too sticky |
| Pleasant smell |
Price
Best Spray: Burt’s Bees For Dogs Waterless Shampoo Spray With Apple & Honey Review
View on Amazon | View on Chewy
Burt’s Bees is known for its gentle, natural skin care formulas for both people and pets. Their waterless shampoo is 97% natural and is formulated to nourish your pup’s coat. Burt’s uses no sulfates or colorants and is pH balanced, so it won’t dry out your pup’s skin. This one is so easy to use. Just spray and work it into your pup’s coat. Burt’s uses fruit extracts, honey, and natural deodorizers like eucalyptus rather than harsh chemicals or fragrances to mask the smell. It has no highly concerning ingredients, another big plus.
The scent is mild and fresh, leaving your pup’s coat soft and shiny. It’s great for an in-between bath refresher but won’t substitute for a tub and suds. I’ve personally used Burt’s Bees products for years with my pets. I like them because they are natural and do not irritate my dog’s skin or eyes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Simple to use | Does not clean the coat in the way a bath does |
| 97% natural formula | It may not work for very stinky or dirty dogs |
| Mild yet effective smell |
Price
Best Powder: Momma Knows Best Dry Dog Shampoo Review
Not only do I love the name of this product, but I also appreciate its natural, non-toxic formula. While many products claim to be natural and use organic ingredients, this one actually does. It also features antibacterial and antimicrobial ingredients to help prevent bacterial growth.
Mamma Knows Best’s formula includes organic tapioca powder, organic arrowroot powder, organic burdock root powder, organic plantain powder, baking soda, bentonite clay, organic geranium essential oil, and organic lavender essential oil. As you can see, there are no questionable, artificial, or highly toxic ingredients in this product at all. It is very safe, helps to keep your pup clean and fresh between grooming sessions, and features essential oils to prevent hot spots, itchiness, and bug bites. While this one is a little higher priced than some of the other options, it is well worth the extra investment.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Organic, all-natural formula | May need to reapply more frequently |
| No highly perfumed odor | Higher price |
| Oil-absorbing ingredients | |
| Antibacterial and antimicrobial ingredients |
Price
- Starts at $19.89
Best Foaming: Paw Choice Natural Foaming Mousse Dry Dog Shampoo Review
If you like foaming products, Paw Choice is an option that works well for many dogs. The formula is silicone dye alcohol and paraben-free. It is manufactured in the United States and does not list any harsh chemicals or silicones on the label. The formula is hypoallergenic and made to neutralize odor and hydrate your pup’s coat. It is non-toxic and is easy to use just about anywhere. This is a great product to use after walks, when you’re traveling, and for paw cleaning. Simply apply and massage into your pup’s coat and let it dry. Brush as needed and enjoy your pup’s fresh-smelling coat.
This purified water-based formula lists polysorbate 20 and unnamed preservatives on the label. However, it is highly recommended by thousands of dog owners, who find the formula to be very effective and not harsh or triggering for their dogs. As with any of these products, keep them away from your dog’s eyes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Deodorizes and cleans | Smell is strong |
| Great for large breeds | Not all owners like the scent |
| Don’t have to use too much | |
| Natural formula |
Our Personal Experience Paw Choice Natural Foaming Mousse Dry Dog Shampoo
Photo by Tara Maurer for Canine Journal, © Cover Story Media, Inc. 2024.
I tried Paw Choice Natural Foaming Mousse Dry Dog Shampoo on recommendation from a coworker. This coconut-derived shampoo is a non-toxic and easy way to keep your dog smelling fresh between baths. I especially like that this product uses naturally-derived fragrances. And I was pleasantly surprised by how well this product performed. Using this product means you don’t have to sacrifice performance to have a natural, clean product.
– Tara Maurer, Dog Mom & Writer For Canine Journal
Price
Best Smell: Wahl Waterless No-Rinse Shampoo Review
This pet-friendly, waterless shampoo has a soothing lavender and chamomile scent. It’s pH-balanced, alcohol and paraben-free, PEG-80-free, and made from plant-based ingredients. This one is exceptionally easy to use; it is a no-rinse foam, and it’s helpful for conditioning, detangling, and moisturizing your pup’s coat and skin. It is also effective for dogs who have sensitive skin and allergies. It is a hypoallergenic formula, and it’s safe for you and your pet. You can choose between lavender, chamomile, or oatmeal and lime formula.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Calming scent | Some owners find the smell too strong |
| Hypoallergenic formula | It is more for odor management than coat cleaning |
| Easy-to-use pump | Bottle goes quickly |
| Leaves fur soft |
My Personal Experience With Wahl No-Rinse
Photo by Danielle DeGroot for Canine Journal, © Cover Story Media, Inc. 2024.
I have used Wahl no-rinse shampoo on my dogs for some time. I like it because it smells great, is easy to use, and leaves their coats soft and smelling great. While it won’t clean their coats as a full washing does, it’s great for funky smells from outside or when they get a little sweaty. It didn’t work so great on wet fur, but on dry fur, I am very happy with the results.
Price
Gentle Formula: Honest Paws No Rinse Dry Dog Shampoo Review
Honest Paws is a well-respected company in the pet wellness industry. They make several products to help promote skin and coat health, including waterless dog shampoo. This all-natural formula is water-based and free of sulfates, parabens, phosphates, artificial fragrances, and other toxic chemicals. It is also MEA and DEA-free and made right here in the United States. Honest Paws dry shampoo has a subtle oatmeal and lavender scent and is developed to cleanse, hydrate, and nourish the skin. The Honest Paws formula contains oatmeal extract and aloe vera leaf powder, which boosts its soothing qualities.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Leaves coat soft | Some owners do not like the smell |
| Very effective on pet smells | Not as effective for every dog |
| Easy to use | |
| Long-lasting |
Price
In-Depth Honest Paws Review
Read our thorough review of Honest Paws to learn more about their products, including top-rated CBD products for pets.
Premium Pick: Barn Dog All-Natural Dog Dry Shampoo Review
Barn Dog All Natural is a powder-based, botanical solution to cleanse and freshen up your pup. If you are looking for something that is safe, effective, and won’t involve your pup’s coat getting wet, this can be a great option. The herbal formula is made to be soothing, and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant elements are included. It helps relieve irritation and prevents bacteria and fungus from growing into those areas of your pup’s coat and body that stay moist. It is super easy to use. You simply sprinkle it in and brush it out. It is made here in the USA and is also safe for your bedding and furniture.
This formula contains all-natural ingredients, including corn starch, arrowroot powder, organic neem seed oil, lavender oil, organic witch hazel powder, and organic chamomile powder. It contains no high-concern ingredients or artificial fragrances that can irritate your pup’s coat.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Antioxidant herbal formula | Higher price |
| Long-lasting | |
| Good for larger breeds | |
| Helps with itchy skin |
Price
Best Heavy-Duty: Mighty Mutt Waterless Foam Shampoo For Dogs Review
If you have a pup that gets extra stinky between washes or after exercise and playtime, Mighty Mutt foam is a top pick. You can easily clean your pup without any water using this hypoallergenic formula. This all-natural formula uses only four ingredients and contains no sulfates, parabens, dyes, phthalates, or other toxic chemicals. It is biodegradable, uses only natural fragrances, is vegan, and is made in the USA.
Mighty Mutt uses only water polysorbate 20, vegetable glycerin, and natural fragrance. Polysorbate 20 is a questionable ingredient. However, it is commonly used in shampoos and other products. It is deemed safe as long as your dog doesn’t ingest it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very effective at stopping smells | Wears off fast for some dogs |
| Evaporates quickly | Some owners report a sticky residue |
| Easy to apply |
Price
- Starts at $14.99
When To Use Dry Shampoo For Dogs
Dry shampoo is not a replacement for bathing or grooming your dog. However, these waterless cleaning products can come in handy for those in between times. If you go to the park and come home with a sweaty-smelling pup but don’t have time to give him a bath, a dry shampoo can be a quick fix. For pets with mobility issues or recovering from an injury or surgery, dry shampoo can be a helpful method to keep them smelling fresh until you can bathe them.
When using dry shampoo, be sure to keep the products out of your pet’s nose, eyes, and mouth. You do not want them to ingest these products as there are some ingredients in them that are not safe if ingested. You also do not want to cause any kind of discomfort, stinging, pain, or irritation to your pup. If your pup has a bad reaction to a product, it’s best to discontinue use and talk to your vet.
When you apply dry shampoo to your pup, start small. For many of these, a little goes a long way. Follow the instructions on the label when you apply these products, and be sure to be gentle with your pup when using them. Focus on the areas that are really dirty or stinky. Do not use dry shampoo on your dog every day. This is best used once or twice a week. You don’t want to dry out the skin or cause irritation to their eyes, nose, mouth, or lungs by exposing them to these ingredients too often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below, I’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions about using dry shampoo on dogs. If I missed yours or you have a dry shampoo for your pup that you just love, let me know in the comments.
Is it OK to use dry shampoo on dogs?
Yes, it is OK and safe to use dry shampoo on dogs as long as the product has been formulated for use on animals. Be sure to read the label to ensure it is safe to use on pets and does not contain any harmful or questionable ingredients.
Does waterless shampoo actually clean dogs?
Waterless shampoo can help freshen your dogs up and keep them tidy in between baths. Most products simply absorb oils and mask scent rather than actually cleaning. The only thing that you can guarantee will truly clean your pup is a good old-fashioned bath with warm water and dog-friendly shampoo.
Does dry shampoo get rid of dog smell?
In many cases, yes, it can mask or eliminate pet odors. However, this depends on a few factors, including the product you pick and how smelly your dog is. Just like us humans, dogs have their own unique smells, and some are just a little smellier than others.
Can I make my own dry shampoo for my dog?
Yes, if you’re so inclined, you can make a simple DIY dry shampoo for your dog. By mixing baking soda, cornstarch, and an essential oil like lavender, you can create a mixture that you can then use on your pup as a dry shampoo. We also have some recipes for DIY dog shampoo that may work for you.
When Is Pet Odor Abnormal?
Dogs tend to carry some odors around, but if they are highly persistent or pungent, odors can be a sign of underlying medical issues. Skin issues can cause odors. This is more of a risk for breeds with skin folds, like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shar-Peis, as bacteria can build up in the folds and start to cause a foul odor. A smell coming from your dog’s ears is a sign of a yeast or bacterial infection. A fishy smell coming from your pup’s tail end can be a sign of anal gland issues. If you are worried about a persistent odor, it’s best to talk to the vet before trying to mask it with any kind of product.
Keeping Your Dog Clean
There is no doubt about it: all dogs get dirty. Even those who spend most of their time inside or are not huge runners get stinky. Bathing and grooming are essential to keeping your pup healthy. Brushing helps prevent matting and removes dirt, debris, and excess hair. It also removes harmful pests like fleas, ticks, parasites, and bacteria. Grooming also gives you a chance to check your pup’s coat, skin, paws, ears, and face for any injury or other abnormality. You also can’t forget to brush those teeth and regularly clip your pup’s nails.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Danielle is a lifelong animal advocate and pet parent. She has over three decades of experience caring for dogs, including those with special medical and behavioral needs. Danielle has a particular passion for rescuing animals and has given several a loving home. She is a dedicated researcher committed to providing up-to-date, accurate, and relevant information to help other pet parents give their dogs the best life possible.
