Our 12 Best Dog Conditioner Choices For Your Canine’s Coat
- Our 12 Best Dog Conditioner Choices
- 1. Warren London Hydrating Butter Leave-in Conditioner for Dogs
- 2. Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Conditioner
- 3. Burt’s Bees for Dogs Oatmeal Conditioner
- 4. Everyday Isle of Dogs Silky Coating Conditioner
- 5. Cowboy Magic Detangler & Shine
- 6. Oatmeal Conditioning Rinse Grooming for Dogs
- 7. TropiClean Moisturizing Pet Conditioner
- 8. Veterinary Formula Ultra Oatmeal Conditioner
- 9. Paws & Pals Oatmeal Shampoo
- 10. PetAg Fresh ‘n Clean Scented Creme Dog Rinse Conditioner
- 11. Espree Silky Show Conditioner
Looking for the best dog shampoo is a given in maintaining the hygiene of your pup, but you may wonder if a conditioner is necessary to buy alongside other dog grooming products. Conditioner is, absolutely, a product that should be included in your dog's bathing routine. Not only can conditioners restore natural oils washed away by shampoos but conditioners can support the strength and nourishment of your dog's coat and skin.
Choosing the best dog conditioner can be difficult with so many companies claiming to have the most effective and beneficial product. Fortunately, we have done the leg work and composed a list of the best dog conditioners you can get your hands on which will leave your dog's fur looking like they're fresh from the groomers.
Our 12 Best Dog Conditioner Choices
1. Warren London Hydrating Butter Leave-in Conditioner for Dogs
Key Features
Easy to apply. No rinsing necessary
Works on all coat types
Aromatherapeutic scent can substitute deodorizer in future
Provides relief for itchy skin
If you’re looking for an easy non-rinse conditioner that will be suitable for all coat types then consider this intense hydrating conditioner from Warren London. This product releases emollients every two hours to ensure that your pooch’s coat and skin stay hydrated but leaves no residue or oil behind.
This leave-in conditioner for dogs not only smells great but is also effective against dandruff or flake-prone skin. Any pooch suffering from dry and itchy skin, paws, or coats will receive effective nourishment and relief when this butter is thoroughly worked through from head to tail and left to dry. Only a small amount is necessary when grooming your dog and its hand pump will make sure you don’t go overboard.
2. Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Conditioner
Key Features
No sulfates, parabens, or alcohols
Compatible with flea treatments
Cruelty-free and made in the USA
Money-back guarantee if you’re not happy
Earthbath Oatmeal and aloe vera conditioner provides relief for those pups suffering from unbearable itchy skin. This gentle, PH-balanced conditioner contains no harsh chemicals which may cause skin conditions to become worse. It is blended with colloidal oatmeal and soothing aloe vera to encourage moisture to develop in your dog’s skin and coat
This formula is comprised of natural and organic ingredients, not only to soothe irritated skin but also to detangle and care for your pet’s fur. So not only does it improve skin and coat health but it’ll have visible benefits also. Your dog’s coat will look and feel smooth and nourished. This product is also safe to use on your feline friends so no need to buy two separate products if you own both a cat and a dog.
3. Burt’s Bees for Dogs Oatmeal Conditioner
Key Features
Colorant and sulfate-free
Veterinarian recommended formula
Softens and smooths dry skin
Natural and PH Balanced
Did you know that Burt’s Bees offers a range of products specifically for your pooch? This dog conditioner is another option rich in colloidal oat flour, as well as honey, to deeply nourish and support their skin and coats. This makes it especially effective for dogs with dry or sensitive skin as the inclusion of natural and organic ingredients won’t dry out or further their sensitivity.
Burt’s Bees conditioner is suitable for puppies as well as adult dogs as it has a mild, tearless, formula, and is PH balanced. A subtle fragrance is present however it doesn’t waver the performance of the conditioner when it comes to treating problematic dry skin. Reviews of the product have seen this conditioner work effectively on all dog breeds with varying coats, leaving them noticeably glossy and soft.
4. Everyday Isle of Dogs Silky Coating Conditioner
Key Features
Made in the USA
Supports the reduction of coat shedding after a bath
Suitable for long or short coats
Moisturizing formula promoting silky coats
Isle of Dogs Everyday Silky Dog Conditioner reduces excess shedding after a bath and is suitable for dogs with short or long hair. Dogs who tend to get matted hair will feel the benefits of this silk-encouraging conditioner and its deep penetrating effects. Isle of Dogs’ everyday conditioner will help untangle your dog’s fur which is especially perfect for managing long-haired dogs’ coats.
Nobody enjoys the wet dog odor that a pooch can sometimes give off after some bath time but this conditioner’s jasmine and vanilla fragrance will make your dog smell great for longer. Adding to the smell and the ability to manage long hair more effectively, this conditioner will leave your pet’s coat shiny and healthy.
5. Cowboy Magic Detangler & Shine
Key Features
Concentrated for optimum detangling and shine
Contains no alcohol or water
Contains Vitamin E to restore moisture
Repels dust, sand, and dirt
A nickel-size drop of this detangler will thoroughly condition your dog’s coat by intensely restoring moisture. This product applies like other leave-in conditioners, only you can apply it through dry or wet hair, as and when you’re brushing. Depending on how thick and long your dog’s coat maybe, you can use one drop or more to achieve the desired texture.
A significant feature of this product is that its’ concentrated, non-oily blend can repel dirt, dust, and sand. By not needing to rinse it out, you can protect your dog’s fur against external attributes that may dry out and tangle hair. In addition to this, the lack of water or alcohol in the conditioner means that your pup’s coat will stay moisturized for longer.
6. Oatmeal Conditioning Rinse Grooming for Dogs
Key Features
Contains five conditioning agents
Sensitive skin formula for dogs and cats
Made with Vitamin E to protect and moisturize
PH Balance for pets
Ready to use. No need to dilute
John Paul Pet pet conditioner is not only cruelty-free but also eco-friendly. This effective dog conditioner is made in the USA and contains the same all-natural extracts as their Paul Mitchell brand for human skin and hair care. Its high concentrated botanical blend makes brushing easy for pet owners and can help detangle matted fur.
This human-tested conditioner is also a perfect solution for those with sensitive dogs and even cats. Rich in vitamin E, oatmeal, and chamomile, this conditioning rinse also benefits your pet’s skin no matter the shape or size. By massaging the rinse through the coat, your dog’s skin is calmed and conditioned protecting it in the future from irritation.
7. TropiClean Moisturizing Pet Conditioner
Key Features
Contains no soap, parabens, or dyes
Suitable for dogs and cats aged over 12 weeks
Moisturizes skin and detangles fur
Naturally derived ingredients
TropiClean’s Kiwi and Cocoa Butter dog conditioner is suitable for all dogs and cats from the age of 12 weeks. Its solution contains natural ingredients which help to gently untangle matted hair and leaves your pooch’s coat moisturized and smooth. Not to mention it adds a fresh, tropical scent to your dog’s fur after bath time.
Looking for the best dog conditioner can be difficult if your furry friend struggles with skin conditions so it’s important to find those without harsh chemicals. Not only is this conditioner free from soaps, dyes, and parabens but it contains colloidal oatmeal and vitamin E in order to provide your dog’s skin and coat with the necessary care to protect it from further harm.
8. Veterinary Formula Ultra Oatmeal Conditioner
Key Features
Sulfate and paraben-free
Safe to use with flea treatments
Long-lasting fragrance
Contains oatmeal, silk protein, and shea butter
Some of the best dog conditioners will contain oatmeal and shea butter to soothe and care for your pooch’s coat and skin. Veterinary Formulas dog hair conditioner not only has these ingredients but also silk protein to ensure that your dog’s fur becomes stronger as well as shiny. This PH Blanaced formula is perfectly safe for frequent use if your dog requires persistent washes.
If you do find that you need to bathe your pooch regularly a great benefit of this particular dog conditioner is that it is suitable to be used with any flea treatments you may be applying. Its gentle ingredients will not wash away any important applications and will still provide the best care for your dog’s fur and sensitive skin.
9. Paws & Pals Oatmeal Shampoo
Key Features
Tear-free soapless formula to protect eyes and noses
Free from sulfates, parabens, dyes, and mineral oils
Nourishing formula to help itchy, dry, and sensitive skin
Made in the USA
In the mix, we saw fit to recommend a dog shampoo that’s made here in the US. If you hadn’t already picked out a shampoo or are in need of an effective alternative, this particular product has several benefits. First of all, its medicated properties are especially capable of eliminating odor, moisturizing, and soothing irritated skin, and softening your pet’s coat.
In addition to this, you can be sure this formula is safe for your dog’s ears and nose if they are notably sensitive to other dog shampoos. The inclusion of natural oils, sweet basil, aloe vera, and vitamin B5 will all contribute to the healing and hydration of your dog’s skin and coat. Turmeric is also an ingredient that is used in order to target irritating hot spots. Did I mention that this product comes with a handy pump?
10. PetAg Fresh ‘n Clean Scented Creme Dog Rinse Conditioner
Key Features
Odor control and long-lasting scent
Contains Aloe vera and Vitamin E
Detangles matted fur
Made in the USA
Here is another vitamin E and aloe conditioner that is known to help minimize matted hair by dramatically smoothing and conditioning for easier combing. By containing a low PH, this dog conditioner is able to seal the hair cuticle in order to retain moisture, protein, and nutrients. To add to this, this product will reduce the chance of static if your pooch is prone to this due to their long hair.
A lot of dog conditioners will contain scents of all types to reduce odor and emit a lasting fragrance after a bath. PetAg’s rinse is well known to pet owners for keeping the scent for a significant amount of time whilst committing to its promise of keeping coats and skin hydrated and protected. Fresh ‘n Clean’s dog conditioner is suitable for puppies, adults, and even seniors.
11. Espree Silky Show Conditioner
Key Features
Cruelty-free formula
Contains silk protein, safflower oil, and aloe vera
Globally sourced ingredients. Made in the USA
Improves texture of dry and damaged coats
Whether you have a longhaired or shorthaired dog, their coat can become dry and damaged which is why Espree offers a silk protein dog conditioner. The combination of natural safflower, organically grown aloe vera, and oil silk proteins will help repair and restore your pet’s coat. Espree’s conditioner is also suitable to use on your cat.
The silky show dog conditioner uses globally sourced ingredients and is made here in the USA. Its Calming Waters fragrance is not overpowering like some conditioners but will add a light, fresh scent to your pet’s fur.
Dog Conditioners Buying Guide
It can be difficult to narrow down what the best dog conditioner is for your pup so below we've added some helpful advice and frequently asked questions to help you complete your search. We also have a similar guide to help you find the best shampoo for your dog here.
Things To Consider When Buying a Dog Conditioner
First, take into account the type of coat your dog has, including its thickness and length. If your dog's coat is longer than others and you find brushing and grooming difficult, the best dog conditioner you can buy would be one specifically for untangling and smoothing matted fur containing aloe. Otherwise, if your dog has a short coat but becomes dried out, dogs benefit from conditioners rich in Vitamin E and coconut oil.
Age and Breed
You may also want to consider the breed and age of your pup as some conditioners are only suitable for adult dogs whereas other dog conditioners can be used for all ages.
Flea Infestation and Spot-On Treatments
If you are currently fighting the frustrating battle against fleas, and want to add a conditioner to your dog's grooming routine, always check to see if the product is suitable to be used first. Most conditioners will declare if they can be used in conjunction with a treatment whereas others that don't claim this risk washing the anti-flea formulas away. Fortunately, I have noted in the key features if any of these products can be used with flea treatments.
Human Conditioners on Dogs
It is important to know that a human hair conditioner is not suitable for any pets, especially dogs. This is because the ingredients used could exacerbate any skin conditions your dog may have. Human conditioners may have some of the same ingredients as a conditioner for dogs but they will have other chemicals included that could seriously hurt your pup, especially their nose, eyes, and ears.
Benefits of Using a Dog Conditioner
Your pet's diet can work wonders for their exterior however a great shampoo and conditioner can help protect them from other factors that may threaten the work of their nutrition intake. When deciding on the best dog conditioner always consider the needs of your dog's skin and coat.
Skincare
You may not believe that a dog conditioner will have any benefits for their skin however, they can actually restore natural oils that are washed away during a shampoo. Also, a regular conditioning treatment can help restore moisture if their skin is particularly dry and damaged.
A good dog conditioner will contain natural ingredients such as oatmeal and aloe vera which are especially soothing for dogs who are prone to flaky and irritated skin. These components will work together to target hot spots as they will reduce inflammation and soothe damaged and bothersome areas. For example, the Earthbath oatmeal and aloe conditioner are well known by pet parents to help reduce itchy and inflamed skin significantly.
Fur-care
Exposure to extreme weather conditions, mud puddles, and other outdoor activities can leave your dog's hair dirty, dull, dry, damaged, and even tangled if they have a long coat. A dog coat conditioner can combat all of these issues by adding extra moisture, shine, and smoothness to make grooming easier for pet owners.
Most dogs who struggle with excessive shedding also benefit from regular conditioning as the formula will soften fur, releasing the dead coat that sits stubbornly during normal grooms. You may be surprised by the long-term effects dog conditioners have on your fur friend.
How A Dog Conditioner Works
How To Effectively Use Dog Conditioners
Each product will provide its own form of instructions however the basic guide is to use your dog shampoo first and then apply the conditioner. If the conditioner is not a leave-in, you will be required to rinse the product away with warm water after massaging it into their coat and skin.
A dog leave-in conditioner will not require you to rinse with warm water or any water for that matter. Usually, a leave-in conditioner for dogs, or dog conditioner spray, will just need to be distributed throughout their fur and left to work its magic. However, be careful not to use too much as an excess build-up can leave fur feeling and look oily or greasy.
FAQs:
Q: Do I need to use a conditioner on my dog?
Using a conditioner has numerous benefits, especially if your dog has long tangle-prone hair, as it can help to soften, moisturize, and detangle matted coats. Also, if your pup suffers from flaky, itchy, sensitive, or sore skin it is recommended that you use a conditioner.
Q: Can I use a human conditioner on my dog?
No. Human shampoos contain ingredients that can be harmful to dogs. Human hair and skin will have a different PH level from canines, so the best dog conditioners will have a lower PH balance to be able to treat and care for their skin and coats. A human conditioner could also irritate their nose, eyes, and ears.
Q: Leave-in conditioner vs regular dog conditioner?
A leave-in treatment is not uncommon yet can be just as effective as a rinse-out conditioner. Some pet owners resort to these, which can be found in the form of a dog conditioner spray, as a substitute to a rinsing formula. This is usually because their dog's coats don't require as much maintenance but may need something to soften fur and/or freshen their scent
Q: Do poodles need conditioner?
Poodles have a stylish coat but their fur can tangle easily. Therefore a regular condition can help untangle hair and make grooming easy for pet owners.