18 Golden Retriever Owners Share Best Shampoos for Itchy & Sensitive Skin

5 days ago 12



There’s nothing worse than watching your Golden Retriever suffers from itchy skin allergies. We asked our community of over 800,000 Golden Retriever owners the following question: What shampoo do you recommend for a Golden Retriever with itchy or sensitive skin?

We’ve summarized the best responses below. Always remember to check with your veterinarian before making changes that affect your Golden Retriever’s health. iHeartDogs is reader supported, so some of the links below may be paid affiliate links at no additional cost to you. 

18 Best Hypoallergenic Shampoos for Golden Retrievers with Itchy/Sensitive Skin

Medicated from the veterinary clinic. My girl used to be really allergic to most shampoos and once we went to the Rx version from our doctor she was good for a bath any time

Author: Jeff P.

Likes: 2


I us clean stay oatmeal shampoo and conditioner has helped you can get it on Amazon

Author: Michele O’Rourke M.

Likes: 0


We tried oatmeal baths and they didn’t make much difference. We had to use medicated shampoo and change her to a grain free diet. She was much better then. I’d recommend talking with your vet, they know your dog best. Good luck.

Author: Maureen A.

Likes: 0


Oatmeal let it sit then a really good moisture container let it sit rinse with cool water

Author: Linda U.

Likes: 6


All of my goldens have had atopy, vet prescribed cytopoint injections every month and malaseb shampoo. Ask vet for allergy blood testing, could even be dietary?

Author: Sue S.

Likes: 0


My golden has dry skin but she does not itch at all . I give her oil pills from the vet and use Oatmeal shampoo .

Author: Sue C.

Likes: 0


Paul Mitchell for pets Tea tree shampoo

Author: Tammy S.

Likes: 0


I know that Burts Bees has a leave in conditioner for dogs that works pretty well for my golden.

Author: Alana S.

Likes: 0


Mine had the same issue, I give them Fish oil and it helps! Also don’t bathe them a lot in the winter

Author: Lori W.

Likes: 0


Change diet, add oil to their food for starters. Dog food is the first suspect. Frequent bathing can also cause this.

Author: John A.

Likes: 0


I have used Burt’s bees for puppies tearless shampoo for my golden since puppy now almost 2 years old. No problems! I always make sure I rinse him really well!

Author: Mark Beth G.

Likes: 1


Johnson and Johnson baby shampoo. My vet recommended it several years ago and we have used it on every Golden since.

Author: Carol K.

Likes: 0


Furminator Dog shampoo from Amazon

Author: Jane W.

Likes: 0


Pooch shampoo with baby powder and then they have regular one of that

Author: Ezra R.

Likes: 0


Main and tail.

Author: Gordon L.

Likes: 0


Change its diet I gave mine home made food and itchy flakey skin stopped and it reduces shedding to. Would you eat the dried stuff with Colouring and Es? Dog food is supposed to be fit for Human Consumption!! Dried stuff maybe convenient but I wouldn’t give it to my Dogs. All mine have black noses and wonderful skin even with heating on. Originally Dog’s ate what we ate years ago they are healthier even our Vet said he’d be out of business if everyone changed!! It worked out cheaper to!

Author: Victoria H.

Likes: 2


Oster Oatmeal Essentials

Author: Rhonda D.

Likes: 0


Change what you are feeding your dog immediately. This is either a yeast or allergy response. Shampoo will be like a bandaid on a broken leg.

Author: Kevin H.

Likes: 0


Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Shampoos for Golden Retrievers with Itchy or Sensitive Skin

  1. What causes itchy or sensitive skin in Golden Retrievers?
    Golden Retrievers are prone to skin issues due to allergies, environmental irritants, dry skin, or underlying health conditions. Common triggers include pollen, dust mites, flea bites, certain food ingredients, and harsh grooming products.

  2. How do I choose the best shampoo for my Golden Retriever’s sensitive skin?
    Look for shampoos labeled as hypoallergenic, sulfate-free, and formulated with soothing ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, or chamomile. Avoid artificial fragrances, dyes, and alcohol-based products, which can aggravate sensitive skin.

  3. Are oatmeal shampoos good for Golden Retrievers with itchy skin?
    Yes, oatmeal-based shampoos are excellent for relieving itching and inflammation. They help restore moisture to the skin and have natural anti-inflammatory properties that calm irritation and promote healing.

  4. How often should I bathe my Golden Retriever if they have sensitive skin?
    Bathing once every 4–6 weeks is typically sufficient for Golden Retrievers with sensitive skin. However, if your dog experiences frequent flare-ups, consult your vet about using a medicated or vet-recommended shampoo more regularly.

  5. Can I use human shampoo on my Golden Retriever?
    No, human shampoos are not suitable for dogs, especially those with sensitive skin. They are formulated for human pH levels, which can disrupt your dog’s skin barrier and lead to further irritation or dryness.

  6. What ingredients should I avoid in shampoos for Golden Retrievers with skin issues?
    Avoid shampoos containing sulfates (like sodium lauryl sulfate), parabens, synthetic dyes, and artificial fragrances. These can strip the skin of natural oils and exacerbate dryness or allergic reactions.

  7. Are there any vet-recommended dog shampoos for itchy skin?
    Yes, many veterinarians recommend specific brands formulated for sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Popular vet-recommended options often include brands like Vet’s Best, Douxo, Earthbath, and Zymox, which are known for their gentle, therapeutic formulas.


Important note: The above suggestions were sourced from our golden retriever owner community. Always do your own research and check with your veterinarian before making changes that affect your golden retriever’s health. iHeartDogs is reader supported, so where applicable links above may be affiliate links to retailers at no additional cost to you. 

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