The 5 Best Dog Shampoos and Conditioners for Pitbulls in 2024

With their short, smooth coats, pit bulls are a relatively low-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming and bathing, but that doesn’t mean your pit bull doesn’t have any unique grooming needs. If you’ve been searching for the best shampoos for pit bulls, you’ve come across the right article. When his fur and skin are healthy, your pit bull’s coat can look shiny, soft, and gleaming in the sun.

When choosing a dog shampoo that’s going to work for your pit bull, you’ll have to consider your dog’s individual needs and sensitivities. There are shampoos for sensitive skin, dog shampoos that eliminate dandruff, and two-in-one combo formulas. It can seem daunting to pick one that’s going to leave your dog smelling good and strutting his stuff with a shiny, healthy coat. For the top five best dog shampoos for pit bulls in 2024, keep on reading.

What are the different types of Pitbull shampoos?

Go down any supermarket aisle reserved for soaps and shampoos and you’ll likely come across dozens of different formulas. No two humans have the same hair care needs, and your dog is the same way. Some dogs may suffer from super sensitive skin, while other dog breeds may need more moisturizing formulas. It all depends on your dog’s breed and his individual needs. When choosing a pitbull shampoo, you’ll probably come across the following different types of potions. Shampoos and conditioner make the fur our pitbull silky smooth. If you have a pitbull with long fur, yes you read that right. Here are some tips on maintaining your pitbull with long hair.

Sensitive Skin

Have you ever tried a low-end, inferior soap only to experience itchy, red, burning skin? Some pit bulls have sensitive, allergy-prone skin that can’t handle low-quality soaps and shampoos. If you’ve tried different types of shampoo on your dog and he always seems to scratch after a bath, he might have sensitive skin. Oatmeal and coconut-oil based shampoos tend to do wonders for dogs who suffer from this issue, so keep that in mind when picking a shampoo for your pitbull.

Antifungal and Antibacterial Shampoo

Every dog will have beneficial, naturally-occurring bacteria on his skin. One of these microorganisms is yeast, which is also found on human skin. The issue is, yeast is an opportunistic bacteria. If your dog lives in a hot,  humid climate, yeast can grow out of control and cause an infection. If you find your dog scratching excessively, rubbing himself against the floor or wall, or chewing at his paws, he might have a yeast infection. Always get him checked out by a vet to rule out another serious health issue. But fortunately, there are antifungal and antibacterial shampoos you can use on your pitbull to get rid of or otherwise prevent a yeast infection.

Shedding Control

Pitbulls have a habit of shedding a lot, especially in the spring and fall seasons. It can be strange how a dog with such a short coat can produce so much excess fur. Brushing your dog outside frequently can cut down on fur loss inside the house.

If he’s healthy but just shedding more than you can tolerate, there are shedding control formulas on the market you can use for bath time. These shampoos should help cut down on shedding, and we’ll offer some links to a few high-quality, shedding control formulas for you to check out later in the article.

Dandruff Control

Dandruff is a pretty common coat issue for dogs of all breeds. Although it is common, it’s not normal. Thyroid issues, dry conditions, and parasites can cause dandruff. Some dogs may have a harmless genetic disorder that causes them to produce oily and dry dandruff flakes, but there are shampoos you can use on your dog to cut down on dandruff. If dandruff is caused by dry skin, you’ll want to pick a moisturizing shampoo for your pitbull.

Deodorizing Shampoos

Some dogs just stink more than others. It’s not necessarily because they are dirty, or suffering from a health condition. All dogs produce natural skin oils which keep their coats moisturized. But sometimes, these oils can smell offensive to humans. If your pitbull has a natural “funk” you want to eliminate, consider using a deodorizing, best-smelling shampoo for pit bulls at bath time.

Top 5 Tips for Keeping Your Pitbull’s Coat Clean and Healthy

Fortunately for bully owners, grooming a pit bull isn’t a time, labor, or financially-intensive process. But to keep your pitbull’s coat looking shiny and healthy, you’ll still need to groom him regularly. Keep these five tips in mind to ensure that your dog will look and feel his best.

1. Feed him high-quality kibble.

Poor-quality foods will ruin your pitbull’s appearance and will also make him feel lethargic. Think about how you feel after a weekend of binge eating junk food. Probably not too good, right? Eating healthy applies to dogs, too. Make sure that your pitbull has access to clean, fresh water at all times, and is being fed high-quality dog food. His kibble should be free of sugars and meat byproducts. Look for dog food that lists real protein in the first few ingredients – chicken, lamb, fish, and turkey are all nutritious for your dog.

Omega 3 and Omega 6 nutrients are excellent sources of essential fatty acids. These nutrients are ideal for keeping your pit bull’s coat and skin shiny and healthy. You can feed your pitbull salmon, an excellent source of omega 3, or purchase supplements specially formulated for dogs. Cooked eggs are also a great source of protein for skin, fur, and eye health.

2. Protect your dog against parasites and allergies.

Fleas, ticks, and other external and internal parasites can make your dog’s coat look dull. Parasites can also potentially kill your pet if you leave them untreated. Always make sure to treat your dog for fleas, ticks, and internal parasites before they strike. Talk to your vet about the right kinds of preventative medications you should use for your dog.

3. Brush your pitbull every day.

For a dog with such short hair, brushing every day can seem like overkill. But brushing your dog each day outside will prevent loose fur from getting over your furniture and clothes. Brushing daily will also help you bond with your dog, and make his coat look shiny and lustrous. The ideal brush to use for a pit bull is a rubber curry brush, which you would apply in a circular motion to knock out the loose, shedding fur. Brushing in a circular motion also helps distribute the natural oils in your dog’s skin which will give the coat a natural shine.

4. Use high-quality shampoos and conditioners.

The right product will do wonders for your dog’s coat. If you’ve ever had the misfortune of using a shampoo that made your hair look fried or limp and lifeless, then you know the importance of using the right product for your hair texture. The same principle applies to your pitbull. Using inferior products can also increase the risk of your dog having an allergic reaction to the soap.

What is the best shampoo for Pitbulls?

Our 2024 Picks: Best Dog Shampoo for Pitbulls
Rank	Dog Shampoo	Price	Rating
Top Choice	Buddy Wash Relaxing Green Tea and Bergamot Dog Shampoo and Conditioner Buy Online Customer Reviews	$	A+
#2	4-legger Organic, Hypo-allergenic, Lemongrass, and Aloe Shampoo Buy Online Customer Reviews	$	A
#3	Earthbath Shed Control Green Tea and Awapuhi Dog and Cat Shampoo Buy Online Customer Reviews	$	A
#4	Nature’s Miracle Supreme Odor Control Natural Puppy Shampoo and Conditioner Buy Online Customer Reviews	$	A
#5	Jax n Daisy Antifungal and Antibacterial Dog Shampoo Buy Online Customer Reviews	$$	A-

Our pick for 2024’s best dog shampoo for pit bulls is…

Buddy Wash Relaxing Green Tea and Bergamot Dog Shampoo and Conditioner

Key Benefits:

• Tested on humans, not animals, and is safe for both!
• Includes a naturally deodorizing whey protein in the mix to keep your bully smelling good days after bath time.
• This shampoo and conditioner product is safe for both puppies and adult pit bulls.
• It comes in a convenient two-in-one formula.

Buddy Wash Relaxing Green Tea and Bergamot Dog Shampoo and Conditioner is a great formula to use on your pitbull. You can use it on adult dogs and puppies, and you’ll save time in the bath since it’s a convenient two-in-one formula. While other dog shampoos can irritate human skin, this product has been tested on humans and won’t leave you with itchy, red, dry hands after you bathe your pitbull puppy or adult dog.

What are the pros and cons of using this two-in-one combo on your pitbull?

Pros: Non-irritating, natural formula for you and your dog. The product also uses a coconut-oil base that is extra moisturizing for pitbull’s sensitive skin. Whey protein will also cut down on funky dog odors.

Cons: The smell is not very strong. If you want a dog shampoo that leaves your pet with a more “perfumed” scent, you might want to look elsewhere. This formula doesn’t have antifungal properties, so it’s not ideal for dogs with yeast infections.

The Runner-Up:

In second place for our best shampoos for pit bulls is…

4-legger Organic, Hypo-allergenic, Lemongrass, and Aloe Shampoo

Key Benefits:

Pitbulls who suffer from dry, sensitive skin will enjoy this formula’s moisturizing and soothing essential oils base.

• Moisturizing oils in the shampoo will keep your pitbull’s coat looking shiny and feeling soft.
• Pitbull’s prone to fungal infections will benefit from this product’s antifungal and antibacterial properties.
• 4-legger is eco-friendly, uses non-GMO ingredients, and is sustainably sourced. The formula’s hypoallergenic properties are excellent for pitbull’s with allergy-prone, sensitive skin.

What are the pros and cons of 4-legger shampoo for dogs?

Pros: The formula is an excellent choice for pit bulls who are prone to yeast overgrowth or other fungal infections. The formula is also easy-to-rinse, so you won’t risk leaving behind soap residue that can irritate and dry out your dog’s skin.

Cons: This dog shampoo is not a two-in-one formula, and it isn’t safe for the dog’s eyes. You’ll need to be careful when uses this shampoo on your dog. Always rinse your dog front to back to protect his eyes and ears during bath time.

5 Tips for Bathing Your Pit Bull

1. Pitbulls are known for being stubborn. It’s best if you get your pitbull used to bath time when he is a puppy. Before you bathe your pitbull, make sure you leave enough time to devote to the bath. If your dog senses that you’re stressed and pressed for time, it can make him nervous and ornery.

2. Talk to your pitbull in a calm, and reassuring voice, so he isn’t scared of bath time. Use healthy treats if you must to coax him into the tub.

3. Use lukewarm water. What sees warm and cozy to you is probably too hot for a dog.

4. Put a non-slip surface at the bottom of the tub. An old towel can work, or you can use plastic shower pads with suction cups on the bottom to fasten to the tub. This will protect your pit bull from slipping and becoming stressed, scared, or injured during bath time.

5. Brush your dog before getting him wet. Brushing will remove any old, dead skin cells and hair, and will make it easier for you to work in the product. Also, keep your supplies within reach of the tub, so your dog doesn’t jump out of the bath while you’re distracted.

What are some other top-rated shampoos and conditioners for pit bulls?

Buddy Wash and 4-legger aren’t the only high-quality pitbull shampoos we’ve come across. We’ve also found some shedding control formulas and other soothing products for pit bulls with sensitive skin.

• Earthbath Shed Control Green Tea and Awapuhi Dog and Cat Shampoo
• Nature’s Miracle Supreme Odor Control Natural Puppy Shampoo and Conditioner
• Jax n Daisy Antifungal and Antibacterial Dog Shampoo

FAQ for Bathing Your Pitbull

• How often should I bathe my pitbull?

Your pitbull only needs to be bathed about once per month. Some can go as long as six months without needing a bath. The pitbull’s short, smooth, and tight coat doesn’t trap dirt and debris like other breeds. But he will need to be brushed frequently to stay clean. If he gets dirty, you can wash him more often. Washing too much, though, can dry out his skin. Bathing is more for looks and cleanliness than health.

• Can I use human shampoo and conditioner on my pitbull?

It doesn’t matter what breed of dog you have. Using human soaps on a dog is a bad idea. Human soaps contain perfumes and other scents and synthetic chemicals that will dry out your dog’s fur and skin and probably give her an allergic reaction. Always use soaps on your dog that are meant for animals.

• My pitbull hates taking a bath, but he stinks! What should I do?

If your pit bull is stubborn about bath time, it can be very frustrating, especially if he smells. The best thing to do is set aside a few hours in a day to devote to training your dog for bath time. Sometimes, taking the dog for a vigorous run or play session outside can make him more agreeable to a bath if he is hot and sweaty.

Stay calm, and talk in a soothing, or even excited tone for bath time. This will signal to your dog that taking a bath is enjoyable. Also, use lots of treats to coax him into the tub. Make sure you set the water to a temperature that is comfortable for him, and use a non-slip surface on the bottom of the tub, so he is secure during bath time. It might also be a good idea to fill the tub with water before putting the dog in the time. Sometimes, running water can scare or stress the dog. It may take a few tries, but eventually, your dog will get used to bath time.

The pitbull has low maintenance grooming needs, but his coat still needs care and upkeep, so he looks and feels his best. The next time your pitbull is due for a bath, try one of these best-smelling shampoos and conditioners for pitbulls for 2024.