The 12 Best Dog Shampoos for Labrador Retrievers in 2026

As one of the most popular dog breeds, it‘s no surprise that many Lab owners are on the hunt for the perfect shampoo for their furry family members. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start.

Labs have some unique grooming needs due to their dense double coats, which shed frequently and are prone to developing a "doggy odor." Their skin also tends to be more oily than other breeds. Some Labs may be prone to skin irritations or allergies as well. All of these factors are important to consider when choosing a shampoo.

In general, the best shampoos for Labs will be gentle yet effective at cleansing, moisturizing, and deodorizing without stripping the natural oils from the skin and coat. For Labs with skin issues, a medicated shampoo may be necessary. It‘s also crucial to select a shampoo that is specifically formulated for dogs, as human shampoos can disrupt the pH balance of a dog‘s skin.

So which shampoo is right for your Lab? We‘ve done the research to bring you our top picks for the best dog shampoos for Labs in 2024:

1. Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog Shampoo

Our top overall pick is this gentle, natural shampoo from Earthbath. The formula contains colloidal oatmeal and organic aloe vera to soothe and moisturize dry, itchy skin. It‘s also soap-free and pH-balanced for dogs. The light vanilla and almond scent leaves your Lab smelling fresh without being overpowering. This shampoo is great for Labs with normal to dry skin.

Pros:

• Natural, gentle ingredients
• Moisturizing and soothing for dry skin
• Pleasant but not too strong scent
• Lathers and rinses out easily

Cons:

• May not be cleansing enough for very dirty dogs
• Scent doesn‘t last long

2. FURminator deShedding Ultra Premium Dog Shampoo

Shedding is a major concern for most Lab owners. This shampoo from FURminator is specially formulated to reduce shedding while promoting a healthy skin and coat. It contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, papaya leaf extract, and calendula extract. These natural ingredients nourish the skin and coat to decrease excess shedding. The shampoo also has a nice light scent.

Pros:

• Effectively reduces shedding
• Makes coat soft and shiny
• Natural ingredients
• A little goes a long way

Cons:

• More expensive than some options
• Doesn‘t provide a deep clean for very dirty dogs

3. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Hypoallergenic Shampoo

If your Lab suffers from skin allergies or sensitivities, a hypoallergenic shampoo like this one from Veterinary Formula Clinical Care is a great choice. It‘s free of harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin. The aloe-based formula gently cleanses and moisturizes. It‘s also great for Labs with normal skin who don‘t need a strong medicated shampoo.

Pros:

• Gentle and non-irritating
• Unscented
• Doesn‘t dry out skin
• Relatively affordable

Cons:

• No added fragrance to help with odors
• Watery consistency doesn‘t lather very well

4. Buddy Wash Relaxing Green Tea & Bergamot Dog Shampoo

For a spa-like experience, try this aromatherapeutic shampoo from Buddy Wash. It contains cosmetic-grade ingredients including green tea, bergamot, sage, and chamomile to soothe and revitalize the coat and skin. The wheat protein and aloe vera moisturize, while the deodorizing properties keep your Lab smelling fresh. This is a great option for Labs who need a little pampering!

Pros:

• Made with cosmetic-grade ingredients
• Nourishing and moisturizing
• Provides gentle cleansing
• Long-lasting pleasant scent

Cons:

• Scent may be too strong for sensitive noses
• Not tear-free, so be careful around the eyes

5. Nature‘s Miracle Supreme Odor Control Dog Shampoo

Is your Lab prone to developing stinky odors? Nature‘s Miracle Supreme Odor Control Shampoo contains odor neutralizers to eliminate tough smells. It also has four conditioners and moisturizers to leave the coat soft and shiny. The honey sage scent keeps your pup smelling good for days. This is an excellent choice for Labs who need serious deodorizing.

Pros:

• Neutralizes odors at the source
• Softens and detangles coat
• Light, long-lasting honey sage scent
• Works well for larger breeds

Cons:

• Strong fragrance may be overwhelming
• Can be drying if used too frequently

6. 4-Legger Organic Dog Shampoo

If you‘re looking for an all-natural, organic option, 4-Legger is a top choice. This USDA-certified organic shampoo is made with essential oils and botanical extracts like coconut oil, aloe vera, and lemongrass. It‘s free of synthetic ingredients, preservatives, and fragrances. 4-Legger is perfect for eco-conscious Lab owners who want a pure, gentle formula.

Pros:

• USDA certified organic
• Non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients
• Concentrated formula lasts a long time
• Soothing for dry, itchy skin

Cons:

• Expensive compared to some options
• No extra deodorizing ingredients
• Thin consistency doesn‘t lather well

7. Burt‘s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs

From the makers of the popular natural personal care line, this oatmeal-based dog shampoo is a gentle and affordable choice for Labs. It contains colloidal oatmeal to combat skin irritation and dryness, plus honey to strengthen and moisturize the coat. The tearless, pH-balanced formula is over 97% natural. The light shea butter and honey scent is pleasant but not overpowering.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Natural ingredients
• Very gentle and moisturizing
• Tearless formula won‘t sting eyes

Cons:

• Some dogs still scratch after using
• Shea butter scent is gone after rinsing
• Thin consistency means more is needed per bath

8. TropiClean OxyMed Medicated Oatmeal Dog Shampoo

For Labs struggling with skin infections or hot spots, a medicated shampoo may help provide relief. TropiClean OxyMed contains soothing oatmeal, plus salicylic acid and tea tree oil to treat fungal and bacterial skin infections. It also helps relieve itching and flaking. The veterinary-developed formula is paraben and dye-free.

Pros:

• Medicated to treat skin infections
• Provides fast itch relief
• Gentle oatmeal base is non-irritating
• A little goes a long way

Cons:

• Requires a prescription from a vet
• Strong medicinal scent
• Can be drying with frequent use

9. Pride + Groom The Shedder Shampoo

Another option for fighting shedding, this shampoo from Pride + Groom is formulated with omega fatty acids and antioxidants to reduce excess shedding and dander. Vitamin E and aloe hydrate the skin and coat. The lemongrass and ginger grass scent is refreshing and crisp. This is a salon-quality shampoo that will leave your Lab looking and feeling like they just stepped out of the groomer‘s.

Pros:

• Reduces shedding while moisturizing
• Luxurious, professional-grade formula
• Fresh, long-lasting scent

Cons:

• One of the most expensive options
• Doesn‘t lather well
• Not ideal for sensitive skin

10. Hartz Groomer‘s Best Soothing Oatmeal Dog Shampoo

An affordable pick from Hartz, this oatmeal shampoo is designed to cleanse, deodorize, condition, and detangle your Lab‘s coat. Oat protein and aloe moisturize, while an exclusive odor eliminating complex gets rid of stinky smells. It has a light jasmine and vanilla fragrance. This is a solid budget-friendly choice for Labs without any major skin or shedding issues.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Cleans, conditions, and detangles
• Odor-eliminating properties
• Pleasant smell

Cons:

• Contains some dyes and preservatives
• Very thin consistency
• Scent may be too perfumey for some

11. Zesty Paws Oatmeal Anti-Itch Dog Shampoo

Zesty Paws Oatmeal Anti-Itch Shampoo is formulated to provide fast relief for Labs with itchy, irritated skin. It contains oatmeal, aloe vera, and vitamin E to moisturize and soothe the skin. The ProSense formula also includes antifungal and antibacterial ingredients to combat skin infections. The light vanilla scent smells good without being too strong.

Pros:

• Provides fast itch relief
• Helps clear up skin infections
• Made in the USA
• Works well for dogs with allergies

Cons:

• May not be cleansing enough for very dirty dogs
• Some dogs still scratch after use
• Vanilla scent doesn‘t last long

12. Isle of Dogs Everyday Jasmine & Vanilla Silky Coating Dog Shampoo

For the ultimate in luxury, Isle of Dogs offers this silky coating shampoo in a jasmine and vanilla scent. It gently cleanses while strengthening and hydrating the coat and skin. Silk protein, evening primrose oil, and royal jelly extract make the coat incredibly soft and shiny. This is a great splurge for Labs who need a little extra pampering and owners who love fancy grooming products.

Pros:

• Makes coat exceptionally silky and shiny
• High-end salon-quality ingredients
• Light floral scent
• Cleanses without stripping moisture

Cons:

• Expensive
• Not ideal for dogs with very oily coats
• No extra deodorizing or deshedding properties

How to Choose the Best Shampoo for Your Labrador Retriever

With so many great options out there, how do you select the perfect shampoo for your unique Lab? Here are some factors to consider:

• Age – Puppies need an extra gentle shampoo. Some shampoos are also indicated for certain life stages like senior dogs.

• Skin type – Does your Lab have normal, oily, dry or sensitive skin? Look for a shampoo formulated for their needs.

• Coat condition – Shampoos with conditioning ingredients can help detangle and add shine to the coat.

• Health issues – For Labs with skin infections, allergies, itching or flaking, look for a medicated shampoo with the appropriate active ingredients.

• Smell – Some shampoos offer more deodorizing benefits than others. Think about how important a scent is to you.

• Bathing frequency – If you wash your Lab frequently, you‘ll want a very gentle shampoo to prevent drying out their skin.

• Your budget – Dog shampoo prices run the gamut from $5 to $50 or more. Decide what you‘re willing to spend.

• Eco-friendly – If using natural, organic ingredients is a priority, you have many "green" options.

Additional Tips for Bathing Your Labrador Retriever

How often you need to bathe your Lab will depend on factors like their age, lifestyle, and coat condition. In general, aim to bathe your Lab every 1-3 months. Of course, if they take a swim in a muddy pond or roll in something stinky, an extra bath may be needed!

When you do bathe your Lab, be sure to brush them thoroughly first to remove any loose fur and mats. Use lukewarm water and place a non-slip mat in the tub if needed. Be very careful not to get soap and water in your Lab‘s eyes and ears.

Focus shampoo on the extra oily or dirty areas like their neck, belly, and backside. Rinse extremely thoroughly to remove all traces of shampoo, as any residue left behind can cause skin irritation. After bathing, dry your Lab with absorbent towels. Brushing the coat again will help it dry faster.

Conclusion

Choosing the best shampoo for your Labrador Retriever doesn‘t have to be complicated. By assessing your dog‘s individual needs and considering factors like ingredients and cost, you can find the perfect product to keep your Lab‘s skin and coat healthy and beautiful.

Our overall pick is Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog Shampoo for its natural, gentle ingredients that moisturize normal to dry skin. For shedding control, we recommend FURminator deShedding Ultra Premium Shampoo. And if your Lab needs medical strength relief, try TropiClean OxyMed Medicated Oatmeal Shampoo.

Whichever shampoo you choose, your Lab will thank you for taking such great care of their coat. Regular grooming not only keeps your pup clean and healthy, but also provides a wonderful bonding experience. Happy bubbles!