🐶❤️🐶 How to make homemade dog shampoo🐶❤️🐶

Eric Rardin

28 Jan 2026 — 4 min read

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Dog(s) of the Day:

Riley

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Suds & Snuggles: The Ultimate Guide to DIY Dog Shampoo

Let’s be honest: our dogs are experts at finding the exact patch of mud, rolling in "mystery scents" at the park, or achieving that distinct "Eau de Wet Dog" aroma. While we love them to pieces, their hygiene... well, it sometimes leaves a bit to be desired.

Commercial dog shampoos can be surprisingly pricey, and if your pup has sensitive skin, the long list of unpronounceable chemicals on the back of the bottle can be a bit daunting. The good news? You probably have everything you need in your pantry to whip up a gentle, effective, and budget-friendly alternative.

Why Go DIY?

Making your own pet care products isn't just a fun weekend project; it’s a way to ensure your best friend is getting the gentlest treatment possible.

Total Transparency: You know exactly what’s touching their skin.
pH Balanced: A dog’s skin is less acidic than ours, with a pH typically between 6.2 and 7.4. This recipe is designed to be mild and non-irritating.
Cost-Effective: You can make a large batch for pennies compared to boutique brands.

The "Clean & Gleam" Recipe

This simple formula is great for most breeds. It cleanses deeply while the glycerin (or aloe) acts as a humectant to keep their skin hydrated.

What You’ll Need:

2 cups of warm water
1/2 cup of white vinegar (great for deodorizing and adding shine)
1/4 cup of mild dish soap (look for one that is scent-free and dye-free, like Dawn Free & Clear)
2 tablespoons of Aloe Vera gel or Vegetable Glycerin (for moisturizing)

The Process:

Combine: Add all ingredients into a clean spray bottle or an old (thoroughly washed) shampoo bottle.
Agitate: Shake gently to mix. Try not to shake too vigorously, or you’ll end up with a bottle full of bubbles before you even hit the tub!
Label: Always mark your bottle so you don't mistake it for dish soap later.

Tips for a Stress-Free Bath Time

Even the best shampoo won't help if your dog views the bathtub as a torture chamber. Here’s how to make it a bonding experience:

The Peanut Butter Trick: Smear a little dog-safe peanut butter (check that it has no Xylitol) on a suction-cup lick mat or the side of the tub. It keeps them occupied while you scrub.
Temperature Check: Use lukewarm water. What feels "nice and hot" to us can be scalding to a dog's sensitive skin.
Rinse, Then Rinse Again: Leftover soap residue is the number one cause of post-bath itching. Ensure the water runs completely clear before towel-drying.

A Quick Note on Safety

While DIY is wonderful, always keep an eye on your pup’s skin. If they have active sores, severe allergies, or a persistent skin condition, it’s always best to check with your vet before trying a new home remedy. Also, avoid getting any soap—DIY or otherwise—directly in their eyes or ears!

Dog Food and Supplement Recalls

Here are the recent recalls and advisories:

Bonnihill Farms (Fromm Family Foods) - BeefiBowls Beef Recipe gently cooked frozen dog food, 16 oz. chubs for potential plastic contamination
Foodynamics - Freeze Dried Pet Treats for potential Salmonella contamination.
Nature’s Own - Pet Chews Bully Bites Treats for potential Salmonella contamination.

Family Photo of the Day:

Axel!

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