If you are in the market for some of the best choices of shampoo for your Poodle, look no further. Poodles tend to be the divas of the dog world and most of us like to treat them as such. After all, their coats are drastically different from those of other dog breeds and they can be groomed and clipped in all sorts of styles.

We’ve taken to the reviews to help you in your search finding the perfect shampoo for your Poodle. Since all the hard work is done, sit back and have a look at the top contenders that made it onto the list.

 

A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2024

The 11 Best Shampoo for Poodles

1. Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo – Best Overall

If you’re looking for the best overall shampoo for Poodles, you’re not going to find a better option than Hepper’s Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo.

It’s made from 100% natural ingredients that are soft on your Poodle’s fur, and the pH balanced-oatmeal formula nourishes both their skin and coat, even if they have sensitivities. Another benefit for those Poodles with sensitive skin is the cooling aloe vera and cucumber ingredients in the formula.

Overall, Hepper manufactures every bottle of this shampoo in the USA, so it goes through the most stringent quality control processes, allowing you to completely trust what you’re getting in each bottle.
Our only complaint is that it only comes in one size, but a 16-ounce bottle is still enough for Pof all sizes!

At PetKeen.com we’ve admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest, so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!

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2. Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo – Budget Buy

Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo gets our pick for the best shampoo for Poodles for the money.  Made with 97% natural ingredients, the company also prides itself on its cruelty-free practices. The shampoo itself is composed of colloidal oat flour to help the coat condition in addition to cleansing.

The pH balance is great for Poodles and this formula is made without any artificial fragrances, chemicals, parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, or sodium lauryl sulfate. Not only are you getting a great-priced shampoo, but you are also getting a great price in addition to great quality.

The downside that some dog-owners complain of is that the shampoo does not lather. This can make it hard for the product to go a long way in one wash, especially for larger dogs.

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3. Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog & Cat Shampoo

Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog & Cat Shampoo is fragrance-free with colloidal oatmeal and organic aloe vera to help moisturize dry itchy skin. All Earthbath products are made in the United States under cruelty-free practices. Each product is free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, gluten, and synthetic dyes.

This particular shampoo comes highly reviewed by many dog owners due to the wonderful texture it gives the coat, and the smell which is pleasant and not overwhelming. Many dog lovers have had great success regarding relief from itchy skin and rave about how great this product is for those dogs with sensitive skin.

The biggest complaint about Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog & Cat Shampoo is the fact that it is a bit more watery than most other shampoos. This may be because it is designed to be used undiluted.

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4. Oster Oatmeal Naturals Gentle Puppy Shampoo

If you’re looking for the perfect shampoo to bathe your new Poodle puppy, look no further. Oster Oatmeal Naturals Gentle Puppy Shampoo is a great option for the little ones. This formula is designed to thoroughly cleanse and lift dirt while being gentle on your puppy’s delicate skin.

Derived from oatmeal, natural wheat protein, rosemary extract, and humectants, this formula is created to moisturize and soothe the skin in addition to cleansing. It is also pH balanced and made without any dyes, parabens, phthalates, and alcohol.

The only complaint about this puppy shampoo is that the fresh, baby powder scent does not last very long after bathing. Some owners felt the scent had dissolved almost immediately after they dried their pup.

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5. Healthy Breeds Poodle Oatmeal Aloe Dog Shampoo

Another great shampoo for Poodles goes to the brand that was created specifically for Poodles. Healthy Breeds Poodle Oatmeal Aloe is made for relieving dry, itchy skin, which can be a problem in this breed.

Not only is this formula hypoallergenic, but soap-free and derived from colloidal oatmeal and vitamins. This shampoo will not strip the hair and works to restore natural moisture and emollients. This brand works great for Poodles that do not suffer from sensitive skin also, it is just an added bonus.

This shampoo contains mostly natural ingredients. It does contain one artificial color (yellow #5), but that is much more of a concern as a food additive rather than in a wash.

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6. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic & Antifungal Shampoo

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic & Antifungal Shampoo is not what you will want to choose for regular, routine bathing. This shampoo is a great choice if you need a medicated option. It’s always best to reach out to your veterinarian before using a medicated shampoo, as they do need to evaluate your dog to give you the best course of action.

This shampoo will help relieve the irritation from skin conditions such as dermatitis and pyoderma. It is formulated with Benzethonium Chloride to help eliminate bacteria that cause irritation and odor. The added Ketoconazole is in place to help treat fungal infections.

This shampoo is free of parabens and has added aloe vera for assistance with soothing the skin and boosting the healing of the affected areas. This is used to help clear up skin conditions, it is not a go-to for dogs that do not meet the requirements. It is a great choice to have on hand for those that do need a medicated shampoo.

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7. Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo

The reviews speak for themselves when it comes to Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor. This shampoo is meant for parasite control and is designed with sensitive skin in mind. It is formulated to kill adult fleas, flea eggs, ticks, and lice. While not a shampoo for regular bathing, it’s always good to have a flea and tick control shampoo handy as needed.  If your pet has any health conditions you should speak to your vet before using it as it is a medicated shampoo.

This formula contains moisturizing oatmeal, coconut extract, lanolin, and aloe to help condition the skin and coat, removing any loose dandruff, dirt, or debris. It is safe to use on both dogs 12 weeks or older, just in case you get one of those dreaded infestations. For best results follow instructions carefully and repeat every 7-14 days.

The insect growth regulator, or IGR, within this shampoo will not only kill the parasites but will help prevent any flea re-infestations for up to 28 days. Because it is a medicated shampoo for parasite control, it may still irritate the skin of some dogs.

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8. Bodhi Waterless Bath Tearless Dog Shampoo

If you are looking for a quick cleaning in-between baths, are on the go, or need a simple spot treatment, Bodhi Waterless Dog Shampoo is a great choice amongst the waterless shampoos. This brand comes highly rated amongst dog owners and does a great job keeping the coat soft, shiny, and smelling nice.

Bodhi Waterless Dog Shampoo is plant-based, free of any soap agents, detergents, and alcohol. This formula is very easy to use. Owners rave in the reviews about how clean it leaves the coat and the smell is not only pleasant but not overwhelming like some other brands.

Waterless baths are not meant to replace regular bathing, they are simply a great go-to to have on hand in between routine baths and grooming.

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9. Hydra Luxury Care Gentle and Moisturizing Dog Shampoo

Hydra Luxury Care Gentle and Moisturizing Dog Shampoo will leave your Poodle soft and smelling amazing. The salon-grade formula is easy to rinse and fast drying. The formula is infused with oatmeal to help soothe the skin and provide detangling.

Owners go on and on about the amazing scent and how soft and silky this shampoo leaves their Poodle’s hair. Many also rave about not just how great this shampoo smells but how long the scent lasts after bathing.

The biggest downside to this particular product is that it is a bit more on the expensive side and it comes in a smaller bottle than most other shampoo choices.

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10. Zesty Paws Itch Soother Dog Shampoo

Zesty Paws Itchy Soother Dog Shampoo is formulated with oatmeal, aloe vera, and vitamin E that support your Poodle’s skin and coat health by providing relief for itchy dry skin and adding nourishment and moisture to the mix.

Zesty Paws Itch Soother Dog Shampoo includes vanilla bean extract for scent, which is very much welcomed among the reviewers that go on about how good the shampoo smells. This shampoo is a great choice for all different kinds of dog breeds with varying coat textures and lengths.

The biggest complaint among reviewers is that the shampoo does not lather well, causing more shampoo to be used during each wash. This can be inconvenient when trying to get through water-resistant coats like Poodles. Of note is that this shampoo contains sweet almond which some people are allergic to.

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11. Buddy Wash Original Lavender & Mint Dog Shampoo & Conditioner

Buddy Wash Original Lavender & Mint Dog Shampoo & Conditioner is a great 2 in 1 option for your Poodle. This soap-free shampoo and conditioner lathers very well and leaves the coat silky, soft, and shiny. This product is coconut-based and formulated with botanical extracts and natural conditioners including aloe vera, green tea, chamomile, sage, and rosemary.

Buddy Wash is alcohol-free and contains wheat protein for natural deodorizing capabilities.

Wheat protein is a natural deodorizer and it’s safe for frequent use, even on puppies who know how to get dirty. The manufacturer explains that this is even safe for human use if used as directed. They do not test on animals and make their products here in the United States.

Some reviewers did not like how fragrant this 2 in 1 shampoo and conditioner is. There were a couple of complaints that some dogs experienced flaky skin after use.

 

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Shampoo for Poodles

How a Poodle’s Coat Differs from Other Dogs

Poodles are distinctly different from other dogs when it comes to their coat. In fact, Poodles are usually described as having hair, not fur. Poodles are known for their lack of shedding; this is because the tight curls keep the hair in place rather than falling out onto the floor.  When you are on the hunt for a shampoo for a dog with curly hair and no undercoat, there are particular challenges and specifics to be on the lookout for.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Shampoo

Shampoos can serve different purposes and you will need to find one that fits your particular needs.  Below we will take a look at the different types of shampoos and what purpose they serve.

Shiny Coat Maintenance

If you are worried about your Poodle’s coat becoming lackluster, some shampoos can restore healthy shine. Look for shampoos that are nourishing and enriched with vitamins and essential oils. Remember, a healthy nutritious diet will also play a role in healthy coats so make sure you are feeding a high-quality diet that is age and size appropriate with high levels of essential fatty acids.

Color Maintenance/Enhancement

If you have a white or light-colored Poodle, there are many special shampoos on the market that are made to brighten and whiten the coat. These shampoos are made to prevent the yellowing of the coat and give your Poodle that vivid, white, flawless coat color. Some shampoos are even designed to enhance the black color in black dogs.

Tangle Management

Poodles are curly-haired cuties that are prone to tangles. You may want to consider a 2 in 1 shampoo and conditioner to help combat those stubborn tangles. You can even purchase a stand-alone conditioner in addition to your shampoo, a lot of brands will offer both options.

Deodorizing Shampoo

There’s no denying that man’s best friend can get a bit smelly sometimes. If you have a pup that tends to carry around a certain stench that you’d like to solve, check in to shampoos that are geared toward deodorizing. Choosing an option that is specifically designed to help eliminate unwanted odors will help get your dog smelling fresh and clean again.

Shampoo for Skin Conditions/Medicated Shampoo

If your Poodle suffers from dry skin and flakiness, a moisturizing shampoo is key. Some dogs have more severe skin conditions that may require occasional bathing with medicated shampoo. Make sure to consult with your veterinarian for assistance in picking the best medicated shampoo. In general, when dealing with sensitive skin, make sure you look for shampoos made from natural ingredients and avoid any harsh chemicals that could cause further irritation.

Flea & Tick Control

If you are battling a flea infestation or have had your dog outdoors in a tick-ridden area, you may be looking for a flea or tick control shampoo. These shampoos are not meant for regular bathing use but come in handy when you have a parasite problem. These shampoos can contain some chemicals that may not be suited for all skin types. Discuss flea and tick shampoos with your veterinarian before use.

Puppy Shampoo

If you have a puppy, you will want to purchase a puppy shampoo. Puppy shampoos are typically gentler and are considered tear-free. You can also keep an eye out for shampoos that suit all life stages.

Waterless Shampoo

Are you needing just a quick, on-the-go coat refreshment for your dog? Waterless shampoos are not designed to replace regular full baths but are a great option for when you require a quick fix or a simple spot treatment.

 

Conclusion

Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is a great overall choice that is all natural, pH balanced, and gentle yet effective. It is fairly priced and even covers those with skin sensitivities. Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo will give you great value and high-quality ingredients for the money. This shampoo is a 97% natural formula and is free from those harmful ingredients that are best avoided. Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog & Cat Shampoo is top of the line and free of all the bad stuff. This natural shampoo is not only healthy but leaves the coat shiny, healthy, and well-moisturized.

Try not to get too overwhelmed on the hunt for the right shampoo, just keep your needs in mind and consider all the factors before making your final choice.

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Featured Image Credit: David Herraez Calzada, Shutterstock