The 5 Best Dog Shampoos and Conditioners for Schnauzers in 2024

The Schnauzer has a distinct beard and thick, wiry double coat. We’ve put together a list of some of the best shampoos for schnauzers for 2024. If you’re on the hunt for a dog shampoo that’s going to meet your pet’s specific needs, you’ve come to the right place.

Pure-bred schnauzers can come in either standard, miniature, or giant sizes. The most popular of these is the miniature schnauzer. Although these dogs are diminutive, they’re sturdy, highly observant, and attuned to their environment. They make excellent watchdogs, and you can usually find them sporting an all black, gray, or salt-and-pepper coat.

Have you recently brought one of these tiny alarm systems back to your home? Our article will show you how to keep your schnauzer’s coat clean and healthy, how to bathe your schnauzer puppy, and what types of dog shampoos are best to use on a schnauzer.

What are the different types of schnauzer shampoos?

Picking a shampoo that’s going to work for your hairstyle and hair texture can be a difficult task, and the same can be said for choosing a decent dog shampoo. There are hundreds of dog breeds, and each one will have certain grooming needs that their owners will need to be aware of. When picking a high-quality shampoo for your schnauzer, you’ll need to know the different types of dog shampoos so you can select the right one for your dog.

Sensitive Skin

Dogs can have sensitive skin just like humans. If you’ve bathed your schnauzer and noticed him scratching after a bath, it could be the shampoo is to blame. Low-quality shampoos are often full of synthetic chemicals that can be harsh on dogs with sensitive skin. If you haven’t bathed your schnauzer puppy yet, it’s a good idea to choose a high-quality shampoo brand for your dog, so you don’t risk giving him an allergic reaction. Choose a formula that is free of synthetic soaps and chemicals, and includes oatmeal or coconut oil base.

Antibacterial and Antifungal Shampoos

Dogs can get yeast infections on the surface of their skin. Hot and humid climates, low immunity, and feeding your dog low-quality foods that have sugars and grains in them can raise his risk of contracting a skin infection. Fortunately, there are antibacterial and antifungal shampoos you can use to treat an infection or lower the risk of one occurring. Always speak to your dog’s vet if you suspect your schnauzer may have a skin infection. Excessive licking, scratching, and rubbing are symptoms of yeast overgrowth.

Shedding Control

All dogs are different, and some breeds will shed more than others. For schnauzer owners, they’ve lucked out. The schnauzer’s wiry coat texture prevents a lot of his loose fur from falling out and getting all over your clothes and furniture. Instead, the schnauzer undercoat traps the loose fur. It’s crucial that you remove the loose fur with a brush, but overall, schnauzer’s hardly shed. If you notice your schnauzer losing a lot of fur, take him to vet to rule out a serious condition. But, there are shedding control shampoos you can use on dogs that shed excessively, which should cut down on some of the mess.

Dandruff Control

Dogs can get dandruff just like humans can. Many things cause doggy dandruff, such as dry air, overbathing, or a benign genetic condition. Dandruff is common and usually isn’t a sign of something serious, but it isn’t “normal.” If your schnauzer starts getting oily or dry dead skin flakes all over his fur, have the vet check him out. You may need to purchase extra-moisturizing dandruff control shampoo to decrease dog dandruff.

Deodorizing Shampoo

Does your schnauzer exhibit an odor, even after a bath? Some dogs just smell more than others. Their skin secretes natural oils to keep their coat clean and healthy. But sometimes, these oils emit a scent that is offensive to humans. You can purchase deodorizing shampoos that will eliminate the smell, without drying out your dog’s skin. The miniature schnauzer is prone to more oily skin than other breeds, so you may want to choose a shampoo with a deodorizing whey protein ingredient in the formula.

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

For the most part, the schnauzer is pretty low maintenance when it comes to bathing and grooming. But there is no such thing as a dog breed that doesn’t require routine upkeep to keep them looking and feeling their best. If your Schnauzer has a white beard and facial fur, you may need to wipe his face down more frequently than darker-colored schnauzers to prevent staining.

1. Clean your schnauzer’s beard at the end of the day.

Before bedtime and after your schnauzer’s last meal of the day, clean his beard. The schnauzer’s characteristic beard will pick up dirt and food particles that can stain his fur and also emit unpleasant smells. You can use a wet, warm washcloth or a specially-formulated dog wipe to clean his face.

2. Clean his ears to prevent infection and staining.

All dogs tear up, but some are more prone to tearfulness than others. With the schnauzer, his tears can stain his coat and also create an environment for bacteria that can infect his eyes. If your schnauzers have white fur around his eyes that can stain, you may want to pick up some tear formula at the pet store to keep his fur white. Otherwise, you can use a clean and warm wet washcloth to clean out his eyes once per day.

3. Trim your schnauzer’s facial fur every five to eight weeks.

The fur around your Schnauzer’s eyes and ears will need to be trimmed about every two months. This fur can grow to excess and irritate your Schnauzer’s eyes and ears and cause an infection. Also, trimming excess fur can promote new, healthy hair growth.

4. Feed your dog high-quality food.

Dogs need protein, not sugars, corn, soy, or meat byproducts in their food. A  healthy diet will do wonders for your Schnauzer’s appearance. Proper nutrition will make his fur shiny and soft, and also ensure that his skin is healthy. Monitoring the quality of his food and his food intake will also keep your dog at a healthy weight. You can also supplement his diet with salmon, sardines, and tuna, which will give your dog beneficial fatty acids. Fatty acids are ideal for keeping your dog’s coat and skin in tiptop shape.

5. Only use high-quality dog shampoos on your schnauzer.

Inferior shampoo brands can irritate your dog’s skin and give him an allergic reaction. The schnauzer breed is prone to oily skin, which can be a little bit smelly. For schnauzer owners, it’s crucial not to strip your dog’s coat of these beneficial oils. Doing so can cause the pores to secrete an abundance of oil if the skin gets dried out. Instead, opt for all-natural, moisturizing dog shampoos for Schnauzers that have gentle deodorizing ingredients in them. This will keep your dog smelling good while preserving the health and integrity of his skin and coat.

Our 2024 Picks: Best Dog Shampoo for Schnauzers
Rank	Dog Shampoo	Price	Rating
Top Choice	Buddy Wash Original Lavender and Mint Dog Shampoo and Conditioner Buy Online Customer Reviews	$	A+
#2	4-legger Organic, Hypo-allergenic, Lemongrass, and Aloe Shampoo Buy Online Customer Reviews	$$	A
#3	Nature’s Miracle Supreme Odor Control Natural Puppy Shampoo and Conditioner Buy Online Customer Reviews	$	A
#4	Jax n Daisy Antifungal and Antibacterial Dog Shampoo Buy Online Customer Reviews	$$$	A-
#5	Paws and Pals Oatmeal, Shea Butter, and Aloe Vera Shampoo Buy Online Customer Reviews	$$	A-

What is the best shampoo for schnauzers?

Our top pick for 2024 best shampoo for Schnauzers is…

Buddy Wash Original Lavender and Mint Dog Shampoo and Conditioner

Key Benefits:

• This shampoo comes in a convenient, two-in-one formula.
• It’s extra moisturizing so it won’t dry out your schnauzer’s skin and coat.
• This shampoo includes natural whey protein powder for deodorizing effects.

Buddy Wash Original Lavender and Mint is easy to apply, lather, and rinse. It won’t leave your dog’s skin and fur stripped of essential moisture. The whey protein ingredient will also cut down on offensive odors without drying your dog’s skin.

What are the pros and cons of using this schnauzer shampoo?

Pros: This shampoo is deodorizing, moisturizing, and all-natural.

Cons: Not a tear-free shampoo, and it’s not safe for puppies. It also won’t get rid of fungus or bacterial infections.

The Runner-Up:

In second place for our best shampoos for schnauzer’s is…

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

Key Benefits:

• Schnauzer’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 safe to use on schnauzer’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 schnauzer’s who are prone to yeast overgrowth or other fungal infections. The formula is also easy-to-rinse and safe for puppies.

Cons: This isn’t a tear-free shampoo.

7 Tips for Bathing Your Schnauzer

1. Brush your dog before he gets wet. A soft slicker brush and a comb work well for untangling knots in the schnauzer’s fur. Be sure to remove loose, dead fur that’s gotten stuck in his undercoat.
2. Put a towel in the bottom of the tub to prevent the dog from slipping and getting injured.
3. Use lukewarm water to bathe him. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to the water temperature. Dog’s can get sick if the water is too hot for them, and they are more temperature sensitive than a human.
4. Gently rub the dog shampoo through the dog’s fur. Avoid shampooing his face and ears, and start from the neck on work your way down.
5. Rise the dog thoroughly from front to back with a shower hose. Be mindful of getting all of the soap out of his fur. Left-behind soap residue can be irritating and dry out the dog’s skin.
6. Wash your dog’s face last. Use a soaking wet washcloth to clean his beard thoroughly and clean around his eyes. Be careful not to get any water in his ears. It might help to place a cotton ball in his ears while you bathe him.
7. You can let the dog air dry after a bath by blotting the excess water from his fur. If you wish, it’s all right to use a blow dryer to dry him faster, but keep the temperature on a low setting.

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

We’ve found several other high-quality, best-smelling dog shampoos you can use on your pooch. Each product uses all-natural ingredients and is free of harsh, drying chemicals and soaps.

• Nature’s Miracle Supreme Odor Control Natural Puppy Shampoo and Conditioner
• Jax n Daisy Antifungal and Antibacterial Dog Shampoo
• Paws and Pals Oatmeal, Shea Butter, and Aloe Vera Shampoo

FAQ for Bathing Your Schnauzer

• How often should I bathe a schnauzer?

Fortunately for schnauzer owners, these hardy little dogs do not need to be bathed very frequently. Every two weeks is the most you should wash a schnauzer. Bathing your dog too much will dry out his skin and fur, and can make his coat appear dull. If your dog smells between baths, it’s possible to use specially-formulated dog wipes to keep him clean. Also, be sure to wash his face off every night after he eats his final meal for the day.

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

Human soap products are also formulated for a human skin’s pH levels, which are extremely different than a dog’s. It’s safer and healthier for the dog to give him shampoo made just for his fur and skin needs.

• Washing my schnauzer’s face with just water isn’t enough. How do I get him clean?

Keeping the schnauzer’s signature beard clean can be a challenge, especially if your dog is curious and lively. What you can do is get his beard wet, then use an applicator bottle or similar tool to apply shampoo to specific spots on his beard. You can use a tear-free shampoo to make sure his eyes don’t get stung from the soap. Use a toothbrush to work up a lather, and then thoroughly rinse out the soap.

• I have a rare, all-white schnauzer. Can I use whitening shampoo on my dog?

The all-white schnauzer is an incredibly striking dog, and it’s safe to use whitening shampoos to keep him looking crisp and regal. Make sure you choose a reputable brand that doesn’t use questionable, synthetic ingredients. We recommend Veterinary Formula Solutions Snow-White Whitening Shampoo for Dogs and Cats.

• How often should I take my schnauzer to the professional groomer for clipping?

The schnauzer isn’t a “wash and wear” breed, although the breed is relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming and bathing. Your Schnauzer will need professionally clipped and groomed about every six weeks. Failing to get your dog clipped can lead to ear and eye infections from fur overgrowth.

The schnauzer is an eager-to-please, lively, and affectionate dog. To keep your furry friend looking and feeling his best, keep these bathing and grooming tips in mind. The next time your schnauzer needs a bath, be sure to give him a high-quality shampoo and conditioner product that is ideal for his skin and coat needs.