10 Best Flea and Tick Shampoos for Dogs

As a pet parent, one of the things you will inevitably find yourself researching is the best flea and tick shampoo for dogs. Often, it is a long-winding road of trial and error before you finally find a solution that truly works for your pooch. I know because I have been down this long-winding road when my previous furry baby came down with a nasty case of tick infestation. 

My search for a good flea and tick shampoo really had me at my wit’s ends. Also, this long cycle of trial and error made the problem chronic. That turned out to be a nightmare to deal with. To save you from having to go through what I did, I have scoured through endless options available on the internet to put together this compilation of the most effective shampoos for ticks and fleas.

Best Flea and Tick Shampoos for Dogs

Whether you’re looking for a good flea bath for dogs or a vet-recommended tick shampoo, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Some shampoos are effective for tick and flea removal but are too harsh on the skin, leading to dryness, flaky skin, and irritation. Others don’t do the job well. Besides, what works for one dog may not for another. After all, not every shampoo for ticks and fleas is suitable for all breeds.

It all boils down to striking the right balance and finding a non-toxic formula that is gentle on the skin but offers rapid relief. Here is a handpicked selection of the 10 best flea and tick shampoos for dogs that deliver on all of the following criteria: 

1. Pet Life Unlimited Natural Flea & Tick 3-Step Set

The Pet Life Unlimited Natural Flea & Tick 3-Step Set is a powerful flea and tick control system that includes a shampoo, a home treatment spray, and a daily spray for dogs. The products are made with plant-based essential oils, which are safe for pets and effective at killing fleas and ticks.

Features

• Includes a 10 oz bottle of daily spray, a 16 oz bottle of shampoo, and a 16 oz bottle of home treatment spray
• Made with rosemary, peppermint, and other essential oils
• Kills fleas and ticks on contact
• Safe for use on dogs of all ages

Pros

• Made with plant-based essential oils, which are considered to be safe for pets
• Kills fleas and ticks at all stages of development
• Easy to use
• Relatively affordable

Cons

• Some users have reported that the products leave a residue on the pet’s coat
• May not be safe for all pets, especially pregnant or nursing animals, or pets with skin conditions

2. Adams Flea & Tick Cleansing Shampoo 

Whether you’re looking for a safe flea shampoo for dogs or an effective tick-removal formulation, this Adams’ offering fits the bill. It offers your pet long-lasting protection against pesky parasites, thanks to a blend of ingredients that effectively kill fleas and ticks while also soothing the skin. Here is what makes it a front-runner for the best flea and tick shampoo for dogs:

Features

• Contains pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide — both effective ingredients for killing fleas and ticks
• Contains oatmeal and aloe vera to soothe the skin
• Available in a variety of sizes

Pros

• Kills fleas and ticks on contact
• Prevents flea eggs from hatching for up to 28 days
• Safe for use on dogs and puppies 12 weeks of age or older
• Relatively affordable

Cons

• May not be effective against all types of fleas and ticks
• Can make the coat coarse 

3. SKOUT’S HONOR: Flea + Tick Shampoo 

Another good flea and tick shampoo, this SKOUT’s HONOR product is known for its natural ingredients and effectiveness. It is suitable for regular use and the lingering scent repels fleas and ticks for up to four weeks. 

Features

• Made with plant-based essential oils such as lemongrass, peppermint, and citronella oil
• Contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera and oatmeal
• Offers long-lasting repellency; for up to 28 days
• Safe for puppies older than 12 weeks

Pros

• Made with plant-based essential oils, which are considered safe for pets and effective against fleas and ticks
• Contains aloe vera and oatmeal to soothe and moisturize the skin, making it suitable for pets with sensitive skin
• Repels fleas and ticks for up to 28 days after application

Cons

• While natural ingredients are effective, they might not be as potent in case of severe infestations
• The strong odor can be hard to get used to  
• May not offer protection against flea eggs or tick larvae

Suggested Reading: How to Make Dog Fur Soft and Shiny: 10 Tips

4. Vet’s Best Flea & Tick Waterless Bath Foam for Dogs

If you’re looking for a vet-recommended flea shampoo for dogs or a tick-treatment option for your pet, here is one that stands out for its easy application. Not all dogs like water and most of them dread bath time. If that sounds like your furry baby, you must try your hand at one of the rare rinse-free options available in the market. 

Features

• Dry shampoo formula that eliminates the need for rinsing with water
• Made from plant-based ingredients, hence gentle and safe for most dogs.
• Kills fleas, flea eggs, and ticks
• Offers additional protection against mosquito bites
• Freshens the coat and removes dirt.
• Assurance of quality control and ethical manufacturing

Pros

• Convenient and easy to use. No water needed, making it ideal for dogs who dislike baths or for quick cleanups
• Formulated with peppermint oil and eugenol, considered safe for most dogs
• Offers immediate relief from pests
• Leaves the coat smelling fresh and removes dirt and debris

Cons

• May not be as effective as traditional flea and tick treatments in case of heavy infestations or against all life stages of fleas and ticks
• Not suitable for puppies under 12 weeks old, pregnant or nursing dogs, or dogs with skin sensitivities
• May leave a slight residue on the fur
• Strong odor

5. SENTRY Oatmeal Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs

Speaking of the best flea and tick shampoo for dogs, this formulation by SENTRY cannot be overlooked. This is a soothing formula with moisturizing properties that effectively kills fleas and ticks in all life stages, bringing your pet immediate relief

Features

• Contains pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide — known for killing fleas and ticks
• Contains oatmeal to soothe and moisturize the skin
• pH-balanced formula suitable for most dogs

Pros

• Effective against adult fleas and ticks, including deer ticks that carry Lyme disease
• Soothes and moisturizes dry or irritated skin, making it suitable for dogs with sensitive skin
• Leaves the coat clean and smelling fresh
• Cost-effective

Cons

• Effective for up to 10 days, requiring more frequent bathing for continuous protection
• Might not be suitable for severe infestations

6. Richard’s Organics Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs

If you’re looking for an organic, all-natural shampoo for ticks and fleas, look no further. For those pet parents who do not want to expose their furry babies to harsh chemicals, this is the best flea and tick shampoo for dogs. 

Features

• Made from organic and natural ingredients. Free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances
• Provides immediate and some long-term protection
• Calms irritated skin. Suitable for sensitive dogs
• Contains conditioning properties that make the fur healthy and shiny

Pros

• Formulated with plant-based extracts like rosemary, peppermint, and clove oil, considered safe for most dogs and free from harsh chemicals
• Suitable for dogs with sensitive skin or allergies, as it avoids synthetic irritants
• Effective against adult fleas and ticks on contact
• Offers some level of repellency for continued protection
• Contains natural oils that nourish and condition the fur

Cons

• May not be as effective as some chemical flea and tick treatments in case of heavy infestations
• Shorter residual protection. Its repellent effect might not last long
• Might not be readily available

Suggested Reading: How to Clean Dog Ears — 7 Easy Steps

7. Bio-Groom Flea & Tick Dog Shampoo 

A safe flea shampoo for dogs or a good anti-tick solution doesn’t necessarily have to be all-natural. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for products made with herbal extracts and just as wary of chemicals. But if you’re looking for a product that breaks the flea life cycle or kills ticks at various life stages, especially when dealing with heavy infestations, a balance of safe chemicals and herbal products is the best bet. Here is what makes this Bio-Groom fit the bill of the best flea and tick shampoo for dogs on the account: 

Features

• Contains pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide
• Pleasant herbal fragrance
• Concentrated formula for economical use
• Safe for puppies 12 weeks and older

Pros

• Effective against adult fleas and ticks on contact, providing immediate relief
• Offers continued protection against re-infestation
• Leaves the coat smelling fresh and clean
• A small amount goes a long way, giving you value for money

Cons

• While generally considered safe, some pet owners may be wary of chemical-based shampoo for ticks and fleas
• May dry out the skin, requiring additional conditioning

8. Ovitrol Vet-Kem Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo for Pets

Looking for a vet-recommended flea shampoo for dogs or a vet-recommended tick shampoo for dogs? Here is one that delivers on both counts and offers exceptional protection against pesky pests. 

Features

• Contains pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide
• Includes Precor (S-methoprene) as an IGR to prevent flea egg development
• Enriched with oatmeal, coconut extract, lanolin, and aloe for skin soothing and conditioning
• Pleasant baby powder scent

Pros

• Kills fleas, ticks, and lice. It is effective against adult stages of these pests on contact.
• Provides residual protection. It prevents flea eggs from hatching for up to 28 days, interrupting the flea life cycle
• Soothing ingredients like oatmeal, coconut extract, lanolin, and aloe vera make it suitable for dogs with sensitive skin
• Cleans and conditions the fur, leaving it shiny and healthy
• Leaves a pleasant and clean smell.

Cons

• Not safe for puppies under 12 weeks old
• Contains chemicals

9. GNC Advanced Medicated Flea & Tick Shampoo for Dogs

This medicated shampoo serves as a good flea bath for dogs and an effective anti-tick formula rolled into one. Its balanced composition and pleasant fragrance make it a suitable choice for dogs of almost all breeds and sizes.  

Features

• Contains pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide
• Enriched with citronella oil for a repelling effect
• pH-balanced formula suitable for most dogs
• Pleasant citronella scent

Pros

• Effective against adult fleas and ticks on contact, provides immediate relief
• Contains citronella oil, which may help repel fleas and ticks for a short period
• Gentle on the dog’s skin and coat
• Leaves the coat smelling fresh.
• Affordable

Cons

• Repellent effect might not last long
• Limited information about specific ingredients  

Suggested Reading: 11 Eco-friendly Organic Dog Beds – Perfect ZZZs for Your Furry Baby

10. Mad About Organics Flea and Tick Repellent Shampoo 

A good flea and tick shampoo is gentle on the skin and harsh on the pests nesting in it. This Mad About Organics formulation offers just that. Here is why it made it to my selection of the best flea and tick shampoo for dogs:

Features

• Contains essential oils like citronella, lemongrass, peppermint, and clove oil, known for their insect-repellent properties
• Gentle and all-natural formula suitable for sensitive pets
• Repels fleas and ticks while deodorizing and cleaning the coat
• Safe for puppies over 4 weeks old

Pros

• Formulated with plant-based and free from harsh chemicals.
• Suitable for pets with sensitive skin or allergies
• Deodorizes and cleanses the coat, leaving it clean and smelling fresh
• Safe for all ages

Cons

• May not be very effective in heavy infestations 
• Doesn’t break the flea life cycle, potentially requiring additional treatments

This selection of options for good flea and tick shampoos is the outcome of first-hand experience and sifting through hundreds of customer reviews and ratings on scores of products to bring you the most effective formulations from some of the most trusted brands. I hope it helps you find the best flea and tick shampoo for dogs.