The short answer: not regularly. A one-off wash with human or baby shampoo in a genuine emergency won't do lasting harm to most dogs, but human shampoo is made for human skin, and your dog's skin is a very different animal (quite literally). Used often, it can leave dogs dry, flaky and itchy. A proper dog shampoo is the kinder option.
Now, the longer answer, for anyone currently standing in the bathroom holding their own shampoo and a muddy spaniel.
Why human shampoo isn't made for dogs
Your skin and your dog's skin have different pH levels
Human skin is slightly acidic, with a pH of around 5.5. Dog skin is closer to neutral, roughly 6.2 to 7.4, according to the American Kennel Club. Human shampoos are formulated for our more acidic skin, so on a dog they can upset the skin's natural protective layer (the "acid mantle"), which helps keep bacteria and irritation at bay.
Dog skin is thinner than ours
A dog's skin has far fewer cell layers than human skin, which makes it more sensitive to harsh cleansers and fragrances. What feels lovely on your scalp can feel considerably less lovely on a Frenchie.
It's harder to rinse out
Some ingredients in human shampoo cling to fur, especially thick or double coats. Any residue left behind can irritate the skin, and an itchy dog is a dog who will rub themselves on your sofa until they feel better.
Can I use baby shampoo on my dog?
Baby shampoo is gentler than adult shampoo and is the better choice if you're truly stuck. But it's still formulated for human skin, not dog skin, so it isn't a long-term substitute. Think of it as the canine equivalent of borrowing someone's toothbrush: fine in an emergency, slightly weird as a lifestyle.
What about "normal" shampoo just this once?
If your dog has rolled in something unspeakable and the shops are shut, a single wash with a mild human shampoo is very unlikely to cause problems for a healthy dog. Use a small amount, rinse really thoroughly, and get some proper dog shampoo in for next time.
Skip the hand soap and anything heavily perfumed, medicated or anti-dandruff. And if your dog already has sensitive, sore or broken skin, leave the experiments out of it and ask your vet.
What to look for in a dog shampoo
- Made for dogs: formulated with dog skin in mind, not just "pet-friendly" marketing.
- Gentle and hypoallergenic: especially for allergy-prone breeds and dogs with sensitive skin.
- Kind to the skin's natural balance: prebiotic shampoos help support the friendly bacteria that live on healthy skin. We explain how in the benefits of prebiotic dog shampoo.
- Odour control that tackles the cause: rather than simply covering smells with heavy perfume.
- Easy to rinse: so nothing is left behind to irritate.
Is dog shampoo safe for puppies?
Many are, but always check the label. Our shampoos are gentle enough to use on puppies as well as adult dogs. Puppies don't need bathing often, so when you do, keep it short, warm and calm, and make sure they're properly dried afterwards. (Brace yourself for the post-bath zoomies.)
How often should you wash your dog?
It depends on the coat, the lifestyle and how much fox poo is involved. Our guide to washing your dog by coat type covers short, long, double, curly and sensitive coats. In between baths, a waterless dry shampoo freshens the coat without a full wash.
Our prebiotic dog shampoos
If you fancy giving your dog something made for them, our luxury prebiotic dog shampoos are hypoallergenic, gentle enough for puppies and designed to support healthy skin while dealing with odour at source. Pick the scent that best matches your dog's level of sophistication.
Either way, put your own shampoo back. Your dog will thank you (eventually, once the bath is over).
