Reviewed & Fact-Checked By
Dr. Lorna Whittemore
Veterinarian, MRCVS
Reviewed & Fact-Checked By
Dr. Lorna Whittemore
Veterinarian, MRCVS
The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
If you are in the market for some of the best choices of shampoo for your Poodle, look no further than here. 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 Comparison of Our Favorites in 2023
Image Product Details
Best Overall
Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo
Made from natural ingredients
Cooling aloe vera and fresh cucumber
Manufactured in the USA
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Best Value
Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo
Inexpensive
pH-balanced formula
97% natural ingredients and cruelty-free
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Premium Choice
Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog & Cat Shampoo
Soothes itchy, sensitive skin
Leaves coat lustrous, soft, and smelling great
Free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, gluten, synthetic dyes
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Best for Puppies
Oster Oatmeal Naturals Gentle Puppy Shampoo
pH balanced
Gentle enough for puppies
Free from dyes, parabens, phthalates, and alcohol
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Healthy Breeds Poodle Oatmeal Aloe Dog Shampoo
Hypoallergenic and soap-free
Soothes itchy, dry, and sensitive skin
Restores moisture and natural emollients
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The 11 Best Shampoo for Poodles
- Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo – Best Overall
Check Price on Hepper
Size: 16 ounces
Purpose: Moisturizing, cleansing, relief of itchy or sensitive skin
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.
Check Price on Hepper
Size: 16 ounces
Purpose: Moisturizing, cleansing, relief of itchy or sensitive skin
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, every bottle of 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 poodles of 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!
Pros
Made from natural ingredients
Cooling aloe vera and fresh cucumber
Manufactured in the USA
pH-balanced formula that’s safe for poodles
Oatmeal formula soothes and nourishes dry skin
Cons
Only comes in one size option
Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo gets our pick for the shampoo that will give you the best value for 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.
Made from natural ingredients
Cooling aloe vera and fresh cucumber
Manufactured in the USA
pH-balanced formula that’s safe for poodles
Oatmeal formula soothes and nourishes dry skin
- Made from natural ingredients
- Cooling aloe vera and fresh cucumber
- Manufactured in the USA
- pH-balanced formula that’s safe for poodles
- Oatmeal formula soothes and nourishes dry skin
Only comes in one size option
- Only comes in one size option
Size: 16 ounces
Purpose: Moisturizing, relieves sensitive and/or itchy skin
Check Price on Chewy
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.
Pros
Inexpensive
pH-balanced formula
97% natural ingredients and cruelty-free
Cons
Does not lather
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.
Inexpensive
pH-balanced formula
97% natural ingredients and cruelty-free
- Inexpensive
- pH-balanced formula
- 97% natural ingredients and cruelty-free
Does not lather
- Does not lather
Size: 1 gal
Purpose: Moisturize, soothe dry, itchy skin
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.
Pros
Free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, gluten, synthetic dyes
Soothes itchy, sensitive skin
Leaves coat lustrous, soft, and smelling great
Cons
Watery
Slightly more expensive
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.
Free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, gluten, synthetic dyes
Soothes itchy, sensitive skin
Leaves coat lustrous, soft, and smelling great
- Free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, gluten, synthetic dyes
- Soothes itchy, sensitive skin
- Leaves coat lustrous, soft, and smelling great
Watery
Slightly more expensive
- Watery
- Slightly more expensive
Size: 18 ounces
Purpose: Bathing puppies
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.
Pros
Gentle enough for puppies
pH balanced
Free from dyes, parabens, phthalates, and alcohol
Cons
The scent is not long-lasting
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.
Gentle enough for puppies
pH balanced
Free from dyes, parabens, phthalates, and alcohol
- Gentle enough for puppies
- pH balanced
- Free from dyes, parabens, phthalates, and alcohol
The scent is not long-lasting
- The scent is not long-lasting
Size: 16 ounces
Purpose: Moisturizing, relief of itchy or sensitive skin
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, it’s 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.
Pros
Hypoallergenic and soap-free
Soothes itchy, dry, and sensitive skin
Restores moisture and natural emollients
Cons
Contains yellow #5
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.
Hypoallergenic and soap-free
Soothes itchy, dry, and sensitive skin
Restores moisture and natural emollients
- Hypoallergenic and soap-free
- Soothes itchy, dry, and sensitive skin
- Restores moisture and natural emollients
Contains yellow #5
- Contains yellow #5
Size: 16 ounces
Purpose: Antiseptic, antifungal
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.
Pros
Paraben-free
Eliminates bacteria and treats fungal infections
Relieves irritation from certain skin conditions
Cons
Not for regular bathing
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.
Paraben-free
Eliminates bacteria and treats fungal infections
Relieves irritation from certain skin conditions
- Paraben-free
- Eliminates bacteria and treats fungal infections
- Relieves irritation from certain skin conditions
Not for regular bathing
- Not for regular bathing
Size: 12 ounces
Purpose: Flea and tick control
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.
Pros
Contains soothing agents such as aloe, lanolin, coconut extract, and oatmeal
Kills parasites and prevent re-infestations
Kills adult fleas, flea eggs, ticks, and lice
Cons
Can potentially irritate skin
Not for regular use
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.
Contains soothing agents such as aloe, lanolin, coconut extract, and oatmeal
Kills parasites and prevent re-infestations
Kills adult fleas, flea eggs, ticks, and lice
- Contains soothing agents such as aloe, lanolin, coconut extract, and oatmeal
- Kills parasites and prevent re-infestations
- Kills adult fleas, flea eggs, ticks, and lice
Can potentially irritate skin
Not for regular use
- Can potentially irritate skin
- Not for regular use
Size: 16 ounces
Purpose: Quick cleaning
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.
Pros
Contains no soap-agents
Free of detergents and alcohol
Great for on-the-go
Cons
Not meant to replace regular bathing
- Hydra Luxury Care Gentle and Moisturizing Dog Shampoo
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Size: 10.14 ounces
Purpose: Moisturizing 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.
Contains no soap-agents
Free of detergents and alcohol
Great for on-the-go
- Contains no soap-agents
- Free of detergents and alcohol
- Great for on-the-go
Not meant to replace regular bathing
- Not meant to replace regular bathing
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Size: 10.14 ounces
Purpose: Moisturizing shampoo
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.
Pros
The smell lasts for several days
Great for moisturizing the coat
Easy to rinse and quick to dry
Cons
Expensive
- See also: 8 Best Shampoos for Goldendoodles in 2022 – Reviews & Top Picks!
- Zesty Paws Itch Soother Dog Shampoo
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Size: 16 ounces
Purpose: Moisturizing, soothing itchy skin
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.
The smell lasts for several days
Great for moisturizing the coat
Easy to rinse and quick to dry
- The smell lasts for several days
- Great for moisturizing the coat
- Easy to rinse and quick to dry
Expensive
- Expensive
Size: 16 ounces
Purpose: Moisturizing, soothing itchy skin
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.
Pros
Contains oatmeal, aloe vera, and vitamin E
Relieves dry, itchy skin
Great for all hair textures
Cons
Does not lather well
Contains Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (sweet almond)
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.
Contains oatmeal, aloe vera, and vitamin E
Relieves dry, itchy skin
Great for all hair textures
- Contains oatmeal, aloe vera, and vitamin E
- Relieves dry, itchy skin
- Great for all hair textures
Does not lather well
Contains Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (sweet almond)
- Does not lather well
- Contains Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (sweet almond)
Size: 16 ounces
Purpose: Shampoo and Condition
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.
Pros
2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner
Lathers well
Soap-free
Cons
Very fragrant
Some dogs experienced flaky skin after use
2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner
Lathers well
Soap-free
- 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner
- Lathers well
- Soap-free
Very fragrant
Some dogs experienced flaky skin after use
- Very fragrant
- 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.
Here are some tips on finding the perfect Poodle shampoo:
Proper pH balance, preferable 6.5 to 7.5 range
Avoid soap agents
Steer clear of chemicals, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or phosphates
Make sure it is made for water-resistant coats
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.
Proper pH balance, preferable 6.5 to 7.5 range
Avoid soap agents
Steer clear of chemicals, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or phosphates
Make sure it is made for water-resistant coats
- Proper pH balance, preferable 6.5 to 7.5 range
- Avoid soap agents
- Steer clear of chemicals, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or phosphates
- Make sure it is made for water-resistant coats
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. 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 shampoo and conditioner 2 in 1 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 and 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.
Featured Image Credit: David Herraez Calzada, Shutterstock
