Best Shampoo And Conditioners For Goldendoodles – Top Picks for Doodle Coat Care

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Goldendoodles are probably best known for their gorgeous coats that can range from the Retriever’s gentle waves to the Poodle’s bubbly curls. 

Although these pups don’t shed much, you do need to spend time looking after your Doodle’s coat. A bath every now and then can freshen up your pet’s fur and may be a necessity if your Doodle likes to roll in stinky stuff when you’re back is turned at the dog park!

So, how often should you bathe your Goldendoodle? Can you use human shampoo?

Read this guide to learn some top doggy bath time tips, and discover the best shampoo for Goldendoodles.

Comparison Chart of The 7 Best Shampoo’s and Conditioners For Goldendoodles

IMAGE

Burts Bees Oatmeal Shampoo For Dogs

BRAND

Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo

DETAILS

  • Amount: 16oz, 32oz, Gallon
  • Features: Contains natural ingredients

Pricing

Buddy Wash Dog Shampoo & Conditioner for Dogs

BRAND

Buddy Wash Refreshing Shampoo and Conditioner

DETAILS

  • Amount: 16oz
  • Features: Chemical-free, natural herbal scent
Zesty Paws Oatmeal Anti Itch Shampoo and Conditioner

BRAND

Zesty Paws Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner

DETAILS

  • Amount: 16oz
  • Features: Shampoo and conditioner in one
Earthbath All Natural Light Color Coat Brightener Shampoo

BRAND

Earthbath All Natural

DETAILS

  • Amount: 16 oz
  • Features: Flea and tick treatment-friendly
Skouts Honor Probiotic Unscented Dog Shampoo Conditioner

BRAND

Skout’s Honor Probiotic Unscented Dog Shampoo & Conditioner

DETAILS

  • Amount: 16oz
  • Features: Hypoallergenic formula
Lillian Ruff Oatmeal Dog Cat Shampoo Conditioner Set

BRAND

Lillian Ruff Oatmeal Dog & Cat Shampoo & Conditioner

DETAILS

  • Amount: 16oz
  • Features: Oatmeal-based for sensitive skin
Arava DeadSea Pet Spa Shampoo

BRAND

Arava Dead-Sea Pet Spa Shampoo

DETAILS

  • Amount: 13.5oz
  • Features: Antibacterial properties

Top 7 Shampoo’s and Conditioners For Goldendoodles

Now, here are our top picks for shampoos for Goldendoodles.

1. Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo

Burts Bees Oatmeal Shampoo For Dogs

Amount: 16 oz, 32 oz, Gallon

Features: Contains natural ingredients

Burt’s Bees has created natural healthcare and beauty products for over thirty years, and they also have a range of superb products for pets through Burt’s Bees Natural Pet Care. All the packaging used is made from 80% recycled bottles, so you can be sure that your choice of dog shampoo is kind to your pet’s skin and to the environment, too.

This Natural Shampoo product is formulated to include colloidal oat flour, honey, beeswax, and green tea extract to nourish the skin, prevent dehydration, and give your pet’s coat a gorgeous, lustrous shine. 

The shampoo is particularly recommended for dogs that have sensitive, dry, or itchy skin, as it contains no harsh chemicals that might irritate your pet’s skin. The product produces a light lather and does not contain a strong scent other than that of the natural main ingredients. Burt’s Bees does not add any form of artificial fragrances to any of its products.

You can use this shampoo safely on adult dogs and puppies, too. This veterinary-recommended, all-natural product is mild and tearless, contains no sulfates, colorants, or harsh detergents, and is specially pH balanced for canine use. 

PROS

  • Great for sensitive skin
  • Contains natural ingredients
  • Made in the U.S.

CONS

  • Strong scent that some might not like

2. Buddy Wash Refreshing Shampoo and Conditioner

Buddy Wash Dog Shampoo & Conditioner for Dogs

Amount: 16 oz

Features: Chemical-free, natural herbal scent

Buddy Wash dog shampoo contains only pure, botanical ingredients, including botanical extracts. Not only is this product super-gentle on your pet’s skin, but it also gives your dog’s coat a gorgeous, fresh, herbal scent that’s to die for!

The product is a shampoo and coat conditioner in one, so there’s no need to splash out on two bath time products for your pampered pooch. You need just one application of this U.S.-made shampoo to enjoy deep cleaning that leaves your pet with a soft, fluffy coat that smells great.

The shampoo is bursting with natural botanicals, including mint, rosemary, tea tree oil, and sage. The product base contains aloe vera, coconut oil, and vitamin E that nourish your dog’s skin and leave his coat silky-smooth and soft. The shampoo is 100% safe, containing no alcohol, soap, or other harsh ingredients.

Choose from a range of enticing scents, including rosemary and mint, lavender and mint, and green tea and bergamot.

PROS

  • Chemical-free
  • Lovely, herbal scent
  • Shampoo and conditioner in one

CONS

  • Some may find scent overpowering

3. Zesty Paws Oatmeal Anti-Itch Shampoo and Conditioner

Zesty Paws Oatmeal Anti Itch Shampoo and Conditioner

Amount: 16 oz.

Features: Shampoo and conditioner in one

Zesty Paws Oatmeal Anti-Itch Shampoo and Conditioner is perfect for pooches with itchy, allergy-prone, or sensitive skin.

The shampoo is formulated using only natural ingredients, contains no harsh chemicals,  and is biodegradable and cruelty-free. Also, the manufacturer has created the product with a perfectly balanced pH to suit your pet’s skin.

This shampoo contains aloe vera and soothing colloidal oatmeal to be gentle on your Goldendoodle’s coat and skin. The product also contains valuable antioxidants and vitamins A, C, E, and B to boost skin condition.

This remarkable formula contains only seven natural ingredients, yet is still highly effective at cleaning even the dirtiest dog. The shampoo lathers up well and is easy to rinse out, so you don’t need to worry about leaving soapy residue behind that could irritate your dog’s skin.

PROS

  • All-natural formula
  • Contains soothing colloidal oatmeal
  • Shampoo and conditioner in one
  • Made in the U.S.

CONS

  • This shampoo is not tear-free

4. Earthbath All Natural

Earthbath All Natural Light Color Coat Brightener Shampoo

Amount: 16 oz

Features: Flea and tick treatment-friendly

Earthbath makes natural, eco-friendly products that feature herbal essences front and center in their formulations. 

This dog and cat shampoo is coconut-based and contains the essence of rosemary, a herb that’s renowned for its ability to shift nasty smells rather than simply masking them. The scent provided by this shampoo lasts for ages, keeping your pet smelling fresh and fragrant and the product formula ensures that the coat is soft, tangle-free, and easy to brush.

As an added bonus, Earthbath shampoo doesn’t wash away tick and flea treatment, so you know that your dog is always protected against parasites, even if you just bathed your pet. You can safely use the shampoo on dogs over six weeks of age, and it’s even suitable for use on the family cat should the need arise!

The product is 100% biodegradable, phosphate, and paraben-free, making this shampoo safe and gentle on your pet’s skin.

PROS

  • Contains no chemicals
  • Fresh, lavender scent
  • Doesn’t wash out flea and tick treatments 

CONS

  • Can be difficult to rinse out

5. Skout’s Honor Probiotic Unscented Dog Shampoo & Conditioner

Skouts Honor Probiotic Unscented Dog Shampoo Conditioner

Amount: 16 oz

Features: Hypoallergenic formula

This hypoallergenic formula is intended to defend against itch, odor, inflammation, and hotspots. This shampoo is suitable for dogs with all skin types and conditions.

The shampoo easily lathers up to produce a rich lather that you can work right down into the dirtiest of coats, leaving the fur clean, smooth, and silky.

PROS

  • Excellent value
  • Gentle yet effective
  • Cruelty-free, sulfate-free, paraben-free and non-GMO

CONS

  • This shampoo is not tear-free.

6. Lillian Ruff Oatmeal Dog & Cat Shampoo & Conditioner

Lillian Ruff Oatmeal Dog Cat Shampoo Conditioner Set

Amount: 16 oz

Features: Oatmeal-based for sensitive skin

The Lillian Ruff brand provides good value products that do a decent job at an affordable price.

This shampoo and conditioner contain oatmeal designed to soothe dry, itchy skin. Aloe and lavender help to soothe, moisturize and soften your pet’s skin while also adding a healthy shine to his coat.

The product is suitable for all coat types. Natural ingredients help to hydrate skin and relieve itching, so your best friend is happy and comfy.

PROS

  • Great for furbabies with itchy skin, allergies and skin irritations
  • Helps to soothe, moisturize and soften skin
  • Adds a healthy shine to the coat

CONS

  • Smell doesn’t last long

7. Arava DeadSea Pet Spa Shampoo

Arava DeadSea Pet Spa Shampoo

Amount: 13.5 oz

Features: Antibacterial properties

Arava Therapeutic Shampoo is formulated using premium Dead Sea minerals and a total of no fewer than 28 natural ingredients that are designed to effectively tackle skin problems, including infections, inflammation, and hot spots.

The shampoo provides effective deep-cleaning action whilst being kind to your dog’s skin. The product’s gentle medicated formula can help to heal problem skin conditions, including mange, dandruff, minor abrasions, and seborrhea. You can also use the shampoo safely on puppies.

Unlike some medicated shampoos that smell rather clinical, this one leaves a light, fresh scent that doesn’t leave your pet smelling as though he’s just come from the E.R. at your local hospital!

If you’re not completely satisfied with your purchase, the manufacturer offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

PROS

  • Great for problem skin
  • Anti-bacterial
  • 30-day money-back guarantee 

CONS

  • Quite expensive for a small bottle of shampoo

How Often Should I Bathe My Goldendoodle?

You don’t really need to bathe your Goldendoodle more than once a month or so unless your pet rolls in something stinky or dives into a muddy pond at the park. 

That said, a very long coat tends to trap dander and dirt, so in that case, you might need to bathe your pet more frequently.

Sometimes, dogs with allergies or dermatitis need bathing more often to keep the condition under control, but your vet will advise you on that.

At What Age Can I Bathe My Goldendoodle Puppy?

Puppies can be bathed from day one!

Grey goldendoodle puppy
Image Source : instagram.com

Giving your puppy a bath is an excellent way to acclimate your new furry friend to the grooming experience and helps establish the bonding process between you and your pet.

What Happens if I Bathe My Goldendoodle Too Often?

Bathing your pet too often strips the natural oils from the dog’s skin, which can cause the skin to become dehydrated and itchy. Also, the hair will become very dry and will lose its shine and softness if you bathe your pup too frequently.

If your dog likes to get down and dirty while out on walks, you may need to bathe him more often. In that case, be sure to use only high-quality shampoo and coat conditioner such as the products we’ve reviewed in this guide.

How Often Is Not Enough?

On the flip side, you should bathe your dog at least every three months. That helps to prevent that “doggy” smell all pet parents know only too well! Also, bathing your dog allows you to check him over for lumps, bumps, and scratches that might otherwise go unnoticed beneath his coat.

Why Does My Doodle Smell Bad?

If you have a pongy pooch, there are several reasons for that:

  • Dogs produce skin oils that moisturzse their skin and coat. A build-up of those oils can produce a distinctive doggy smell.
  • Dogs’ ears have glands that produce a musty smell.
  • Your Doodle’s anal glands secrete oils that can get smelly if the glands are blocked. If you notice your dog “scooting” along the carpet, it’s likely that his anal glands need attention from your vet.
  • Bacterial skin infections can cause a very unpleasant odor that might be made worse by bathing your dog too much. Again, a trip to the vet is necessary to find out what’s causing the pong and treat it appropriately.

What To Look For In A Shampoo For Goldendoodles

When choosing a good shampoo for your dog, the rule is to keep it simple. Look for a shampoo that contains natural ingredients that will freshen and moisturize your dog’s coat and skin.

So, look for citrus extracts, oatmeal, aloe vera, vitamins, and herbal proteins. If your dog has a skin condition, ask your vet to recommend a suitable medicated shampoo for your pet.

Avoid shampoos that have a high concentration of chemicals, artificial fragrances and colors.

Can I Use Human Shampoo On My Dog?

No! You should never use human shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, or body wash on your dog.

Dog skin is much more sensitive than human skin. 

That’s because a dog’s skin has a pH balance of 6.2 to 7.4, which is close to neutral. Human skin has a pH of 5.5 to 5.6, which is more acidic. Also, your dog’s skin has only three to five layers of skin cells, whereas humans have ten to 15. 

The Acid Mantle

The skin has a protective upper layer called the acid mantle. The acid mantle’s main function is to guard the skin’s uppermost layer, the stratum corneum, from bacteria and viruses, as well as helping to reduce evaporation and keep the skin hydrated. 

If you bathe your dog with products that are formulated for use on human skin, you wash away the acid mantle and irritate the skin. That causes itchiness, leading to scratching, which leaves your pet vulnerable to a plethora of very unpleasant conditions.

What About Baby Shampoo?

Baby shampoo is formulated to be very mild and usually contains very simple ingredients that won’t irritate an infant’s sensitive skin.

female dogue de bordeaux puppy getting a bath on white background

So, in a pinch when you don’t have any dog shampoo on hand, you can safely use baby shampoo on your Goldendoodle.

Can I Use Dish Soap On My Doodle?

Absolutely not!

Dish soap is formulated to strip grease and stubborn, dried-on food from your crockery, so just imagine how harsh that would be on your dog’s sensitive skin!

How To Bathe Your Goldendoodle

Once you’ve chosen your dog shampoo, you need to know how to bathe your dog.

Assuming that your pup isn’t afraid of water, and most Doodles aren’t, you can either put your dog in your own tub or shower stall, use a proper doggy bath if you have one, or simply take your pup outside on your lawn or patio and use a doggy shower. Mini Goldendoodles will often fit into your kitchen sink.

  1. I always begin by brushing my dog to remove tangles and mats from her coat. It’s much easier to do that when the fur is dry than when it’s soaking wet and more prone to tangles.
  2. Wet your dog’s coat thoroughly with warm water, except for the face and head.
  3. Apply dog shampoo to the coat and work the shampoo into a thick lather. Use your fingers to massage the lather deep into your pet’s coat. With the exception of the dog’s head and face, work over the whole body, including the legs, belly, tail, and privates.
  4. Use warm water to rinse off all the shampoo. Make sure that all the shampoo is gone. Any residual lather might irritate your pet’s skin.
  5. Wet your dog’s face and head, taking care not to get water in your pet’s eyes or nose.
  1. Now, use a tearless shampoo to lather the dog’s head and neck, paying particular attention to the beard and around the mouth. Be extremely careful not to get soap in your pet’s eyes, nose, mouth, or ears.
  2. Once you’re happy that you’ve rinsed away all the shampoo, allow your Goldendoodle to have a good shake.
  3. Dry your dog thoroughly with a dog towel.
  4. Goldendoodles have a double coat, and your pet’s fluffy undercoat is probably still damp. So, use a dog hair dryer to finish off the drying process. Have the dryer on its lowest setting, and carefully comb the hair with your fingers as you work your way over the whole dog.
  5. Once your dog is dry, brush him again to ensure there are no tangles or mats.
  6. Finally, apply a little leave-in conditioner to make the coat super-fluffy and tangle-free.

I recommend that you don’t allow your dog to air-dry. 

Firstly, your playful pup is likely to roll around on the grass or your carpet to dry himself, ending up dirty again! 

Secondly, a layer of warm, damp air next to your dog’s skin will encourage bacteria to grow, which could cause a skin infection. 

Top Tips For Bathing Your Doodle

Tip 1 – Use a Dog Bathing Brush

A dog bathing brush is a great tool that every doggy bath time kit should contain!

The brush is designed to produce more lather for less shampoo, so your shampoo goes much further. The soft brush bristles also achieve much deeper penetration of the coat, while loosening dander, loose hair, and dirt.

Tip 2 – Use an Empty Condiment Bottle

French bulldog puppy in wooden wash basin

Many high-quality dog shampoos are very thick, making the product difficult to work into the coat and leading to wastage. A condiment bottle prevents wastage and provides a more even distribution of the product.

All you need to do is put a couple of inches of shampoo into the empty condiment bottle and top it up with hot water. Shake the bottle gently to dilute the shampoo.

Now you can apply the diluted shampoo anywhere on your Goldendoodle’s body, targeting especially dirty areas perfectly!

In Conclusion

We hope that you enjoyed our guide to the best shampoo for Goldendoodles and the bathing tips we included. 

Our favorite dog shampoo that we reviewed for you is the Burt’s Bees offering. 

This all-natural shampoo is highly recommended for dogs that have sensitive, dry, or itchy skin, as the product contains no harsh chemicals, sulfates, artificial colors, or fragrances that might irritate your Goldendoodle’s skin. You can use the shampoo on puppies and adult dogs, and the tearless formula, pH balanced formula is recommended by vets.

Overall, we think this is an excellent quality product that’s brought to you by a well-established manufacturer with a proven track record of producing health and beauty products for both humans and their pets.

Meet our writer

Alison Page was brought up with dogs and various other pets! For a few years, Alison worked as a Practice Manager in a small animal veterinary clinic. Alison is now a full-time writer, specializing in creating articles on the care and training of dogs, cats, and fish.

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