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9 Best Antibacterial and Antifungal Dog Shampoos in 2024 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Categorized as Buyer's Guide & Reviews
best antibacterial antifungal dog shampoo

Every dog owner knows the challenges of finding the perfect shampoo. With so many different brands and formulas on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for your pup.

And when you’re dealing with a skin condition like allergies, hot spots, or infections, the task becomes even more daunting.

That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best antibacterial and antifungal dog shampoos. We’ll help you identify the key ingredients to look for in a shampoo, and we’ll provide reviews of our top picks.

Whether your dog is dealing with a minor issue or a serious condition, we’ll help you find the right product to get them back to their happy, healthy self.

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Our Top Picks for The Best Antibacterial and Antifungal Dog Shampoos


9 Best Antibacterial and Antifungal Dog Shampoos Reviewed

1. Best Overall: Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Shampoo for Dogs

The Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Shampoo for Dogs is the vet-recommended shampoo formulated to fight against a broad range of bacteria and fungi, making it our top pick for the best overall dog shampoo.

It contains two active ingredients (benzethonium chloride and ketoconazole) that work fast to alleviate a wide range of symptoms associated with bacterial and fungal infections, including itchiness, redness, and irritation.

In addition, if your dog is currently in the process of being treated for flea and tick infestations, this shampoo will not wash away any spot-on treatments they may be using.


2. Best for Deep Cleansing: Arava Natural Medicated Dog Shampoo

The Arava Natural Medicated dog shampoo has a deep cleansing formulation that reaches all the nooks and crannies my pup’s fur tends to collect dirt in – like the face folds, finger folds, and underarm and groin area. And it does it all without any harsh chemicals.

But perhaps what makes this shampoo unique compared to others is the combination of dead sea salt and dead sea minerals – both of which offers a wide range of benefits for your dog’s skin and coat.

The salt helps to cleanse and exfoliate the skin, while the minerals work to soothe and nourish.

To make things even better, this shampoo is also enriched with 28 active ingredients that include Pomegranate, Kelp. Reishi, Rosemary, Aloe Vera – all of which work together to heal your dog’s skin from the inside out.


3. Best Itchy Skin Solution: VETNIQUE LABS Dermabliss Anti-Itch and Medicated Dog Shampoo

For all the dog owners out there who have been desperately trying to find a solution to their pup’s itchy skin problems – your search is over!

The VETNIQUE LABS Dermabliss Anti-Itch and Medicated Dog Shampoo is hands-down the best-rated anti-itch dog shampoo on the market.

This shampoo is formulated with Dermabliss 3% Benzoyl Peroxide that offers many benefits for your dog’s skin and coat, including itch relief, sebum regulation, antibacterial action, and more.

This shampoo also contains vitamin E, which is an excellent antioxidant that helps to protect your dog’s skin from free radical damage and is free from harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances.


4. Best Deodorizing Shampoo: Jungle Pet Dog Medicated Shampoo

Jungle Pet’s Medicated Shampoo not only acts as an antiseptic, but it also deodorizes your dog’s skin, leaving them with a cucumber melon scent which is much nicer than the typical medicinal smell of most medicated shampoos.

The shampoo is made with Ketoconazole and Chlorhexidine which are proven to be effective against a wide range of infections such as ringworm, hot spots, and itching.

Another plus is that this shampoo is made in the USA so you can be sure that it is of the highest quality and safety standards.


5. Best Hydrating Shampoo: Douxo S3 PYO Shampoo

This top-rated hydrating shampoo is perfect for dogs with dry skin. It contains ophytrium a plant extract that provides long-lasting hydration and soothes dry, itchy skin.

What makes this shampoo more impressive is that it is the number one non-prescription topical brand recommended by veterinarians. That’s pretty impressive considering there are a lot of shampoos on the market that claim to be the best for your pet.

In fact, it has been proven to be so effective that in many cases it has helped to reduce yeast counts within 7 days.


6. Best Gel-Based Shampoo: Dechra Mal-a-ket Formulated for Dogs

If you’re looking for a gel-based shampoo that is medicated and will help to soothe your dog’s skin, then the Dechra Mal-a-ket Formulated for Dogs is the one for you.

This shampoo contains ketoconazole and chlorhexidine gluconate, which are both effective against a wide range of infections and skin conditions.

You might be wondering why you would want to use a gel-based shampoo on your dog. The answer is simple – it is much easier to apply and rinse off.

This is especially beneficial if you don’t have a lot of time to spare to give your dog a bath or if you have a dog that will not sit still long enough to let you shampoo them properly.


7. Best For Allergic Dermatitis: Curaseb Shampoo for Dogs

Allergic dermatitis is a common skin condition in dogs that can be caused by a variety of things, from environmental allergies to food sensitivities. While there are many different treatments available, Curaseb Dog Shampoo is one of the most effective.

This powerful shampoo contains Chlorhexidine Gluconate 4%, which is a potent antibacterial and antifungal agent. It helps to get rid of unwanted foreign visitors, while also soothing and cleansing the skin.

And if you’re worried about where the ingredients come from, you’ll be happy to know that Curaseb is made in the USA and overseen by a team of skilled technicians who follow a strict set of guidelines to ensure that the final product meets the highest quality standards.


8. PetHonesty Chlorhexidine Shampoo

This veterinary strength shampoo not only treats various skin issues associated with shedding and infections, but it also helps to control bad doggy odor. It has a light cucumber scent that is pleasant and not overpowering.

Aside from the main ingredient, chlorhexidine, this shampoo also contains essentials that have so many benefits to your dog’s coat and skin.

One of those benefits is that it helps manage sebum production, which is the body’s natural oil but can lead to an overproduction that can cause odor and skin problems.

In addition to being gentle and non-irritating, it also helps to detangle fur and remove dirt to leave your dog’s coat looking shiny and healthy.


9. Vetmd Free & Clear Hypoallergenic Shampoo

The Vetmd Free & Clear Hypoallergenic Shampoo is made with some of nature’s finest ingredients, including aloe vera and chamomile. These natural ingredients are gentle on the skin and help to soothe and condition the coat.

Combined with its clinical-grade active ingredients, this shampoo helps to provide relief from a wide range of skin conditions, including allergies, seborrhea, and hot spots.

The shampoo is also free of harsh chemicals and fragrances, making it ideal for pets with sensitive skin. In addition, the shampoo is formulated to be hypoallergenic and will not cause irritation or itching.


What Causes Bacterial and Fungal Skin Infections in Dogs?

Bacterial and fungal infections in dogs can be caused by a number of factors. One common cause is an underlying skin condition that alters the integrity of the skin, making it more susceptible to infection.

Another possibility is that the dog’s immune system has become suppressed, making it unable to fight off infections effectively.

In some cases, the use of antibiotics or other medications may also lead to a decrease in the levels of healthy bacteria in the dog’s system, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria or fungi.

What Are The Symptoms of Bacterial and Skin Fungal Infections?

The symptoms of a bacterial or fungal infection will vary depending on the specific condition. However, some common signs that your dog may have an infection include:

  • Itching or scratching.
  • Hair loss.
  • Red, inflamed skin.
  • Hot spots.
  • Blisters or pus-filled bumps.
  • Crusty or flaky skin.
  • Odor.

How Do You Treat Bacterial and Fungal Skin Infections In Dogs?

When it comes to treating bacterial and fungal skin infections in dogs, antibiotics are typically the first line of defense. However, topical anti-fungal treatments such as shampoos or ear ointments may also be necessary.

Depending on the severity of the infection, your veterinarian may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics. In more severe cases, hospitalization may be required for intravenous antibiotic therapy.

Once the infection has cleared, it is important to continue with any prescribed maintenance medications to help prevent a recurrence.

In addition, good hygiene practices such as regular bathing and grooming can help to keep your dog’s skin healthy and free of infection.

How Serious is a Bacterial or Fungal Skin Infection?

Bacterial and fungal skin infections are both serious conditions that, if left untreated, can have severe consequences. Bacterial infections can cause the skin to become red, swollen, and painful, and can lead to the formation of pus-filled bumps.

Fungal infections often result in itchiness, scaling, and discoloration of the skin. In severe cases, both types of infections can emit a foul odor. Untreated bacterial and fungal skin infections can also be fatal to canines who are highly susceptible or immunocompromised.

Therefore, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible if you suspect your animal has a skin infection. Early diagnosis and treatment will help to improve the prognosis and prevent potentially life-threatening complications.

How does the Antifungal Dog Shampoo Work?

The antifungal dog shampoo contains ingredients that work to kill the fungi that cause infections.

The most common active ingredient in these types of shampoos is ketoconazole, which is an antifungal medication. This ingredient works by preventing the fungi from growing and multiplying.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Shampoo for Bacterial and Fungal Skin Infections

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the best shampoo for bacterial and fungal skin infections for your dog:

The type of infection your dog has

When choosing an antibacterial and antifungal dog shampoo, it is important to consider the type of infection your dog has. yeast infection, ringworm, and dermatophytes are all common types of infections that can affect dogs.

Each type of infection requires different treatments, so it is important to choose a shampoo that is specifically designed to treat the type of infection your dog has.

Your dog’s skin type

An equally important consideration is your dog’s skin type. Dogs with sensitive skin may benefit from a medicated shampoo that contains soothing ingredients such as oatmeal or aloe vera.

On the other hand, dogs with normal or oily skin may do better with a shampoo that contains more harsh ingredients such as ketoconazole or chlorhexidine.

The severity of the infection

Depending on the severity of the infection, you may need to choose a more potent shampoo. For mild infections, a medicated shampoo that can be purchased over-the-counter may be sufficient.

For more severe infections, however, you may need to use a shampoo that contains prescription-strength ingredients. These shampoos are only available through a veterinarian and may require more frequent use.

Active formulation

Active formulation refers to the amount of the active ingredient, such as ketoconazole or chlorhexidine, in the shampoo.

A higher concentration of the active ingredient can provide better results, but it is also more likely to cause irritation.

As a result, it is important to find a balance that will be effective against pathogens while still being gentle on your dog’s skin.

Here are some effective and safe ingredients to look for in an antibacterial and antifungal dog shampoo:

  • Chlorhexidine is an effective ingredient against yeast infection. It is a potent antimicrobial agent that can kill a wide range of bacteria and fungi.
  • Ketoconazole is an antifungal agent that is very effective in the treatment of ringworm. It can prevent the growth of fungus and also kill the existing fungi.
  • Miconazole is an antifungal medication that is used to treat a variety of fungal infections, including ringworm and yeast.
  • Clotrimazole is a topical antifungal agent that is effective in the treatment of ringworm.
  • Lime sulfur is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that is proven effective to inhibit fungal growth.
  • Enilconazole solution is a topical antifungal agent that is used to treat ringworm.

Soothing ingredients

In addition to active ingredients, a good antibacterial and antifungal dog shampoo should also contain ingredients that soothe the skin. These ingredients can help further to reduce itching and inflammation associated with skin infections.

Some examples of soothing ingredients to look for include:

  • Oatmeal and buttermilk are two natural ingredients that can help to soothe and protect the skin.
  • Aloe vera is a natural ingredient that has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
  • Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from damage.
  • Shea butter is a natural ingredient that can help to moisturize and protect the skin.
  • Coconut oil is a natural ingredient that has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties.

Balanced pH

The pH scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance, with 7.0 being neutral. Antibacterial and antifungal shampoos typically have a slightly acidic pH in order to be effective against bacteria and fungi.

However, if the shampoo is too acidic, it can irritate your dog’s skin. That’s why it’s important to choose a shampoo that is balanced, meaning it has a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.

No harsh chemicals

Harsh chemicals, such as sulfates and parabens, can cause irritation and dryness. They can also strip the natural oils from your dog’s skin, which can lead to further irritation.

As a result, it is important to choose a shampoo that is free from harsh chemicals. Instead, look for shampoos that are made with natural, gentle ingredients.

Deep cleansing

A good antibacterial and antifungal dog shampoo should be able to deep clean the infected areas including the skin folds. This will help to remove the microbes that are causing the infection while also preventing them from coming back.

Scent

While a strong scent is not necessarily a bad thing, some dogs may find it overwhelming. If your dog is sensitive to smells, it’s best to choose a shampoo with a light, natural scent.

Brand reputation

One last thing to consider when choosing an antibacterial and antifungal dog shampoo is the brand reputation.

Look for brands that have a good reputation for quality and safety. You can find this information by reading online reviews or talking to other dog owners.

What Ingredients Should Not Be In A Shampoo for Bacterial and Fungal Skin Infections?

Parabens

Parabens are a class of synthetic chemicals that are commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics and personal care products. They are known to disrupt hormone function and have been linked to cancer.

Sulfates

Sulfates are harsh cleansing agents that can strip the natural oils from your skin, leaving it dry and irritated. They can also be toxic if ingested.

Phthalates

Phthalates are a class of synthetic chemicals that are used to make plastics more flexible. They are known to disrupt hormone function and have been linked to birth defects, cancer, and other health problems.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a toxic chemical that is used as a preservative in some personal care products. It is a known carcinogen and can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

Artificial additives

Synthetic fragrances, colors, and flavorings can all cause irritation and allergic reactions. They can also be toxic if ingested.

Lanolin

Lanolin is a waxy substance that is derived from sheep’s wool. It is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products as a moisturizer. however, it can cause irritation and allergic reactions.

Tips To Use Antibacterial and Antifungal Dog Shampoos

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of using an antibacterial and antifungal shampoo for your dog:

  • Read the label carefully to make sure the shampoo is safe for your dog’s specific skin condition.
  • Follow the instructions on how often to shampoo. Over-shampooing can dry out the skin and make the infection worse.
  • Bathe your dog once or twice a week following the shampooing instructions or as directed by your veterinarian.
  • Gently massage the shampoo into your dog’s wet coat.
  • Make sure to rinse the shampoo off completely. Any residue can irritate the skin.
  • Be sure to dry your dog’s coat thoroughly after bathing to prevent moisture from trapped against the skin, which can lead to irritation.

Conclusion

Now that you know everything there is to know about antibacterial and antifungal dog shampoos, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your dog.

Our reviews and buyer’s guide will help you find the perfect shampoo to treat your dog’s skin condition. With the right shampoo, you can get your dog’s skin infection under control and help them feel more comfortable.

Why Trust Us?

Train Your GSD team is made up of passionate dog lovers who are dedicated to finding the best products for your furry friend.

We research, test, and write about the latest in dog grooming so you can make an informed decision about what’s right for your pup.

Our editorial process is independent and unbiased; we don’t accept product samples, requests for reviews, product mentions, or direct advertising.

By Andrew Garf

Andrew Garf has loved dogs, especially German Shepherds, since he was 10 years old. Though he also loves burgers, training dogs is his real passion. That's why he created the website TrainYourGSD.com - to help dog owners learn how to properly train, care for, and bond with their German Shepherd dogs.