The coats of our pets is always a top priority. It is more than just about looking good on the outside. Skin is the largest organ of their bodies, protecting them from external harm. A healthy skin is a key to a healthy life throughout the years. So, it is just right to be concerned about finding the best shampoo for pitbulls and bulldogs.
Some of the most common skin problems they encounter include the following:
- Dryness
- Flea bites
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Irritation
- Itchiness
Later on, we will discuss each of these skin issues. By doing so, you will be able to determine the specific needs of your pets.
However, before that, let us tackle our top 10 recommendations to limit your options. Similarly, this list will give you an idea about what to look for in a dog shampoo. Of course, you will also learn what ingredients you need to avoid.
Many dog parents tend to buy known brands or best-selling products. The problem is, those things are not enough indicators of whether a dog shampoo is perfect for a certain pet and/or dog breed or not. You still need to check every label and the benefits of each product to make the right choice.
It sounds difficult, YES. However, we guarantee to give you the best help. So, let us start!
Table of Contents
What is The Best Shampoo For Pitbulls and Bulldogs?
PRODUCT | SIZE (IN FL. OZ.) | UNIQUE FEATURE(S) | RATING | |
Pro Pet Works Hypoallergenic Organic Oatmeal & Aloe Cat + Dog Shampoo (Editor’s Choice) | 17 | Oatmeal and aloe vera combination | 4.8 | check price |
Pet King Brands Zymox Enzymatic Shampoo | 12 | Three-point enzyme system | 4.67 | check price |
Filthy Friends Organic Pet Shampoo Lemongrass | 12 | Pump bottle | 4.7 | check price |
Isle of Dogs Silky Coating Shampoo | 16 | Floral jasmine and vanilla scent | 4.67 | check price |
Bodhi Dog Waterless Dry Shampoo Lavender | 8 | Waterless | 4.52 | check price |
Oster Oatmeal Naturals 4-in-1 Shampoo | 18 | Balanced pH level | 4.8 | check price |
Davis Benzoyl Peroxide Shampoo | 12 | Keratolytic treatment | 4.7 | check price |
Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Soothe Oatmeal Shampoo | 16 | Powerful natural ingredients | 4.8 | check price |
Douxo Chlorhexidine Shampoo | 6.8 | Contains phytosphingosine | 4.6 | check price |
Crazy Dog Baby Dog Shampoo | 12 | Ideal for puppies | 4.8 | check price |
#1. Pro Pet Works Hypoallergenic Organic Oatmeal & Aloe Cat + Dog Shampoo – My Best Shampoo for Pitbulls and Bulldogs
Pro Pet Works Hypoallergenic Organic Oatmeal and Aloe Cat + Dog Shampoo is perfect for your pets if they have the following skin problems:
- Dryness
- Flea bites
- Itchiness
- Sensitivities to certain food and/or grass
Aside from addressing these skin issues, it also gets rid of bad odor. More importantly, you may use it in conjunction with topical flea treatments. Many dog shampoos do not offer this compatibility. As a result, it might be harder to treat flea bites. The smell will also no longer be a problem; thanks to the cherry almond scent.
With ingredients such as organic almond oils, organic aloe vera gel, and other essential vitamins, you also do not need to worry about irritating the eyes of your Pitbulls and/or bulldogs. Moreover, these ingredients do not strip the natural minerals and oils of their skin. It is a guarantee that your pets will not react adversely. Why? It is free of the following ingredients:
- Alcohol
- Animal byproducts
- Artificial colors
- Detergents
- Parabens
- Soaps
- Sulfate
It is made in the US, too. So, it is rest-assured that only high-quality manufacturing process is involved.
Overall, this dog shampoo is never tough on your pets; only on dirt. From the name itself, it will not cause allergic reactions.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Contains oatmeal, aloe vera, and essential oils
- Does not wash off topical flea treatments
- Cherry almond scent
Cons
- May not help treat skin allergies
#2. Pet King Brands Zymox Enzymatic Shampoo & Rinse – Best Shampoo for Pitbulls and Bulldogs
If your Pitbulls and/or bulldogs are struggling with recurring skin infections, this dog shampoo may be your best solution. It boasts with a Three-Point Enzyme System, which destroys infection-causing bacteria and fungi. This gentle formulation has been proven to combat the following:
- Body fold pyoderma
- Candida albicans
- Impetigo
- Massezia
- Staphylococcus
- Among others
The combination of the following enzymes provides the therapeutic benefits to your pets:
- Lactoperoxidase
- Lactoferrin
- Lysozyme
With consistent use, you will see your pets healing from skin infections in no time. It is also worth noting that the dog breed is not an issue. Certainly, it is safe for both puppies and adult dogs. You may also use it for your cats and kittens. If by accident, your pets ingest it, they will not suffer a fatality. However, of course, you still need to be mindful at all times.
Without a doubt, Pet King Brands Zymox Enzymatic Shampoo & Rinse helps protect the skin of your pets without damage or irritation. It is completely safe and free of harsh ingredients such as the following:
- Artificial colors
- Detergents
- Pesticides
- Residual petroleum products
Pros
- Treats recurring skin infections
- Three-point enzyme system
Cons
- Extreme scent
#3. Filthy Friends Organic Pet Shampoo Lemongrass – Best Shampoo for Pitbulls and Bulldogs with Dander
This dog shampoo is rich in organic essential oils. These include the following:
- Coconut oil, which has antibacterial, antifungal, and moisturizing properties
- Jojoba oil, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
- Olive oil, which has anti-aging properties
These organic essential oils bring out the best of your pets’ skin. When combined, these ingredients deliver fast and impressive results. If your pets have dander issues, Filthy Friends Organic Pet Shampoo Lemongrass might be the right product to use. Aside from getting rid of dander, it also conditions and soothes the skin of your pitbulls and/or bulldogs. At the end of the day, you will see shiny, luxurious coats.
Additionally, it works well for removing fleas and relieving flea bites. Overall, it is a powerful shampoo that resolves all possible skin issues including bad odor and itchiness.
Coming in a pump bottle, it is convenient to use. So, be it for your puppies or adult pets, you can easily groom them. Also, it rinses fast. If your pets hate water and baths, you are at ease.
Bathing is through before they even know it. Of course, with its lemongrass scent, they will smell good for days without the need for frequent baths.
Pros
- Contains essential oils
- Eliminates dander
- Pump bottle
- Lemongrass scent
Cons
- Runny
#4. Isle of Dogs Silky Coating Shampoo – Best Moisturizing Shampoo for Pitbulls and Bulldogs
Skin dryness is not just a common problem among us, humans. Even pitbulls and bulldogs deal with it often, too. The ideal way to prevent and/or treat skin dryness is to keep the skin moisturized. Thanks to this best shampoo for pitbulls and bulldogs, you can easily do just that.
So, if the main concern of your pets involves skin dryness, you need to consider using Isle of Dogs Silky Coating Shampoo. Its gentle formulation softens the coat and skin, creating a silky touch. No matter how dry the skin of your pets has gotten, using it will bring back their youthful glow.
The signature floral jasmine and vanilla scent is also an amazing characteristic. We all know how awful pets may smell after a long day or even a week without a bath. If they are highly active, all the more you need to worry. Their odor may be intolerable anytime. Thanks to this pleasant scent, your pets will stink no more.
Another great thing about it is that it is cruelty-free. It has not been tested on animals during the manufacturing process. Also, it does not contain the following:
- Alcohol
- Animal byproducts
- Parabens
- Soaps
Overall, this indicates that it is safe and effective.
Pros
- Moisturizing properties
- Mentle formula
- Floral jasmine and vanilla scent
Cons
- Scent may not last relatively long
#5. Bodhi Dog Waterless Dry Shampoo Lavender – Best Waterless Shampoo for Pitbulls and Bulldogs
Let us admit it— bathing your pets regularly is quite a handful task. Similarly, many pets do not like taking a bath. So, as an alternative, it is best to use Bodhi Dog Waterless Dry Shampoo Lavender.
Using this best shampoo for Pitbulls and bulldogs allows you to keep your pets clean and fresh all the time. The lavender scent is pleasing and it lingers for days. The result is not surprising— a fast and effective way to groom your four-legged pals.
It does not only get rid of bad odor. It also nourishes the skin of your pets, maintaining a gentle touch. Additionally, it has a mild formulation. It is 100% cruelty-free. So, it does not matter if they have sensitivities or not. Its ingredients are derived from plants and are environmentally friendly. It does not contain harsh chemicals such as the following:
- Alcohol
- Detergents
- Soaps
For sure, it is the perfect dog shampoo to bring when traveling with your pets. Waterless baths are the new “in” now. So, if you want to get on with the times, you should consider getting this item. Be it for adult cats, dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs, puppies, or kittens, you will get the most of what you pay for it.
Pros
- Waterless
- Lavender scent
- Gentle formula
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- May not be suitable for extremely sensitive pit bulls and bulldogs
#6. Oster Oatmeal Naturals 4-in-1 Shampoo – Best Oatmeal Shampoo for Pitbulls and Bulldogs
I consider this as the best shampoo for Pitbulls and bulldogs because it has natural oatmeal as its main ingredient. It has a balanced pH level that soothes your pets’ coat and skin without inflicting damage and/or pain. It is also rich in vitamin B5, which has the following benefits:
- Conditioning
- Detangling
- Static removal
You will notice that many dog shampoos contain oatmeal. That is because it has intense cleansing and moisturizing properties. With it, you may bid your goodbyes to skin dryness and irritation.
Oster Oatmeal Naturals 4-in-1 Shampoo has no trace of the following:
- Alcohol
- Artificial colors
- Dyes
- Parabens
- Phosphate
- Phthalates
The surfactants help get rid of dirt quickly. Also, these ingredients deliver a long-lasting fresh, peach mango scent. In fact, it prides itself with one of the longest-lasting fragrance among many competing products. Aside from a softer skin, you will also achieve a fresh and beautiful one.In addition, you may use it in conjunction with topical flea treatments. You do not have to worry about it rendering these applications ineffective, like how many dog shampoos do.
It is proudly made in the US, ensuring that only the finest ingredients make it to the final cut.
Pros
- Contains oatmeal and panthenol
- Iontains oatmeal and panthenol
- Peachntense cleansing and moisturizing properties mango scent
- Does not wash off topical flea treatments
Cons
- May increase shedding
#7. Davis Benzoyl Peroxide Shampoo – Best Keratolytic Shampoo for Pitbulls and Bulldogs
As a keratolytic grooming product, Davis Benzoyl Peroxide Shampoo relieves your pets from the following skin conditions:
- Acne
- Demodectic mange
- Seborrhea dermatitis
Keratolytic treatment is essential for your pets because it softens the keratin, keeping the skin moisturized. Moreover, it is an effective solution for flaky skin.
It also helps flush hair follicles and maintain your pets’ natural oils in the skin. I included it in this list of the best shampoo for pitbulls and bulldogs because it provides deep cleansing as well.
With 2.5% benzoyl peroxide in the mix, it definitely resolves serious skin issues. It even has antibacterial properties that help fight bacterial infections.
Also, it hydrates your pets’ skin; thanks to the natural moisturizers present in the formula. Most pets tend to have dry skin as they age; so, having a moisturizing agent is really important.
More importantly, it is not just perfect for adult dogs and puppies. You may also apply it to your cats and kittens if ever you have any. It is one of the products that veterinarians recommend the most.
The natural coconut acts as a lathering agent. However, you need to prevent it from getting into your pets’ eyes; it might cause irritation.
Pros
- Keratolytic treatment
- Moisturizing properties
Cons
- May worsen itching among extremely sensitive Pitbulls and bulldogs
#8. Rocco & Roxie Soothe Oatmeal Shampoo – Best Shampoo for Pitbulls and Bulldogs with High Activity Levels
Most Pitbulls and bulldogs are highly active. They love playing around every day. Consequently, they easily smell awful and get dirty. Of course, you cannot prevent them from rolling and running around. After all, it is a great way to keep them physically fit. If your pets are among these extremely playful kinds, you might want to try Rocco & Roxie Soothe Oatmeal Shampoo.
It has been designed to give your pets a relaxing and soothing experience while bathing. If they do not like taking baths, you best believe they will start loving it once you use this dog shampoo. Particularly, it relieves flaky and/or itchy skin; all thanks to the olive oil and oat extracts.
Other benefits include moisturizing your pets’ skin. With shea butter, you do not need to worry about skin dryness. Then, the rosemary extract stimulates their hair follicles. As a result, their coat and skin remain healthy even as they age. Lastly, there is aloe vera. This ingredient offers calming benefits to prevent skin irritation. The chamomile also improves the overall efficacy.
Another thing everyone loves about it is that it is free from the following ingredients:
- Alcohol
- Artificial colors
- Formaldehydes
- Mineral oils
- Phthalates
Pros
- Contains aloe vera, essential oils, oats, rosemary extract, and shea butter
- Calms the skin
Cons
- No long-lasting fresh scent
#9. Douxo Chlorhexidine Shampoo – Best Antiseptic Shampoo for Pitbulls and Bulldogs
This best shampoo for pitbulls and bulldogs has antiseptic properties that relieves inflammation and/or itchiness, both of which may result from skin infections. It is no wonder why it is one of the most trusted dog shampoos among US veterinarians.
Douxo Chlorhexidine Shampoo boasts with effective cleansing agents. Others may find it harsh when they hear of it first. However, it is a guarantee that it is gentle to the skin. Its main purpose is to clean, moisturize, and nourish the skin of your pets without pain.
What I like the most about it is that it contains Phytosphingosine. As a pro-ceramide, this ingredient is crucial in rebuilding your pets’ organic ceramides.
These play an important role in maintaining skin health. Also, it has climbazole, which fights fungi; and chlorhexidine, which fights bacteria and fungi. If you want to protect your beloved furballs from skin infections, it will definitely serve you well.
If your pets do not like taking a bath, you may also use other products such as the DOUXO Chlorhexidine Mousse and/or DOUXO Chlorhexidine Micro-emulsion Spray. All of these items are suitable for both cats and dogs.
It is made in the US; so, you can trust that it only contains reliable ingredients.
Pros
- Antiseptic properties
- Gentle formula
- Contains phytosphingosine
Cons
- May not work for extreme skin issues
#10. Crazy Dog Baby Dog Shampoo – Best Shampoo for Pitbulls and Bulldogs Aged 12 Months Old and Below
Crazy Dog Baby Dog Shampoo is highly recommended for puppies. However, it is also suitable for adult dogs who love bathing. So, what does it do? It cleanses, conditions, and moisturizes… all types of coat and skin. If you have pets other than Pitbulls and bulldogs, it will really come handy for you. There is no need to buy a separate dog shampoo for them!
Perhaps the most appealing feature of this dog shampoo is that it is rich in panthenol. As a B-vitamin, it moisturizes your pets’ skin and makes them more manageable. Even when they have damaged coats from using several products in the past, you can trust that it will restore their skin. More importantly, it creates a luxurious, shiny coat over time. Thanks to wheat protein, their coat and skin will remain in perfect, smooth condition. It will feel baby powder soft if you will.
This really works if you want to give your pets a gentle, baby treatment. Not only would they look good, but they will also smell good. You do not have to worry about getting it into your pets’ eyes, too. Absolutely, it has a gentle formulation.
Pros
- Moisturizing properties for all types of coat and skin
- Contains panthenol and wheat protein
- Gentle formula
Cons
- May not work for extreme skin issues
Common Skin Problems Among Pitbulls and Bulldogs
It may be quite difficult to determine whether your pets are suffering from certain skin problems. Such is especially true when you are a first-time dog parent. You may not see the signs easily. In some cases, when the conditions are not treated immediately, they get worse.
Bulldog Grooming by Leading Expert
So, to help you provide the best treatments for your pets right away, you need to know the most common skin problems among Pitbulls and bulldogs. At the same time, you need to understand the signs and/or symptoms. The quicker you can provide remedies, the better it is.
Dryness
There are several factors causing skin dryness. Some of the most common ones include the following:
- Allergic reactions
- Infections
- Malnutrition
- Among others
Dog breeds with short coats are more likely to experience skin dryness than those with long coats. So, whether you have adult Pitbulls and/or bulldogs or puppies, they are all equally likely to have dry skin. You can tell that a dog’s skin is dry when it looks dull.
Flea Bites
Fleas are truly a nightmare. As parasites, they feed off your pets’ blood. The problem is that your four-legged friends may get them anytime, anywhere.
You need to pay attention to your pets. Check their skin every day for signs of flea bites. These are tiny, red spots. You can say that they look like small insect bites. When your pets scratch constantly, that is their way of telling you that they have fleas. Another sign includes biting of their own skin. Excessive scratching may lead to another problem, which is inflammation.
Infection
Skin infection among Pitbulls and bulldogs may come in different forms. It could be any of the following:
# Malassezia Pachydermatis Or Fungal Infection
Yeast is a normal part of your pets’ skin. However, its abnormal growth may occur over time. When this happens, the skin becomes inflamed.
While the main cause of the problem remains unknown, the frequency of its occurrences has been directly associated with high temperature. Also, food sensitivities and concurrent infections are among the factors.
You will know your pets are suffering from fungal infection when you notice any or all of the following symptoms:
- Darker skin areas
- Greasiness
- Hair loss
- Irritation
- Redness
# Pyoderma or Bacterial Infection
As they play around, your pets may get wounded at times. This increases their risk of getting a bacterial infection. Now, you may avoid this by treating the wounds properly but it does not ensure full immunity against it.
Pets Skin Problems and Baths Part 1
Typically, it is the exterior layer of your pets’ skin that is affected. However, in cases of deep lacerations, the infection may affect the inner layers.
If they have a fungal infection, food sensitivities, and/or endocrine diseases, they are at greater risk.
To determine whether your pets are struggling with this skin problem, take note of the following symptoms:
- Hair loss
- Itchiness
- Pustules
- Raised lesions
Inflammation
Skin irritation, like skin inflammation, may be a result of other skin problems. Otherwise, it is certain products that irritate the skin of your pets. In such cases, it is wise to shift to another product. If the irritation still persists, consider not using any products at all until you determine your pets’ sensitivities.
Itchiness
When your pets scratch severely, it may indicate allergic reactions and/or flea bites. Dry skin is also a factor, especially in low-temperature areas. If not resolved immediately, itchiness may result to wounds.
As you can see, all of these skin problems are related. When one is not addressed correctly, it may lead to another, leading to another.
Grooming Your Pitbulls and Bulldogs
For both Pitbulls and bulldogs, everyday baths are not necessary. Nonetheless, that still depends on how stinky and how active they are. Many of them do not like bathing but it is all a matter of routine.
If they are enthusiastic about playing outdoors every day, you may need to bathe them every other day. Otherwise, twice or thrice a week will do.
Some dog shampoos are tear-free but most of them are not. I suggest that regardless of what product you use, always avoid getting it into your pets’ eyes. It could be painful and of course, we do not want to hurt our pets.
Pitbulls
With short coats, daily brushing is a must for Pitbulls. Yes, they are not high-maintenance dog breeds like those with long coats. Nonetheless, attentive grooming is still a must. For this, I recommend that you use a rubber brush.
Brushing in a circular motion is the key. It allows you to stimulate and release your pets’ natural oils throughout their skin. It is also the best way to eliminate flakes and dead hair.
Bulldogs
Since bulldogs have short coats, many people think that grooming is not really much of a big deal. That is a myth!
Bulldogs need an elaborate grooming routine as much as long-coated dog breeds do. After all, they are equally prone to developing skin problems, especially as they age.
One of the most common issues among bulldogs is wrinkling. In fact, wrinkles have been their identifying characteristic for quite some time now. Our tip? Apply baby powder or cornstarch to their wrinkled areas after every bath. For excessive skin dryness, a diaper rash ointment will do wonders.
To Wrap It Up…
My choice: Pro Pet Works Hypoallergenic Organic Oatmeal & Aloe Cat + Dog Shampoo
It is hypoallergenic and organic, making it a pet-friendly product. Should my dogs be allergic to any ingredient, I could be confident that it will not cause any skin problems.
It is my personal choice because it contains oatmeal and aloe vera, both of which have excellent benefits to the skin. With it, I do not have to worry about my pets not getting the proper nourishment they need.
Of course, not all dogs are the same. You still need to consider several factors when choosing the right dog shampoo for your pets. You may begin by determining what skin issues they have, which may be any of the following:
- Dryness
- Flea bites
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Irritation
- Itchiness
Attending to these problems immediately will go a long way. As dog parents, it is our responsibility to look after our pets; and it all begins with the right product.
Dog shampoo is just a part of the whole grooming essential. The short coats of our pets is never an excuse to take proper maintenance for granted.
Have you tried any of the products we have mentioned? If yes, how were your experiences like? Have they met your expectations? If no, which one are you planning to try? We would love to hear from you!
I hope that you find this article insightful. Should you have any concerns and/or feedback, do not hesitate to leave a comment down below. Also, it would help if you share it with your friends!
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