7 Vet-Approved DIY Recipes for Oatmeal Dog Shampoo You Can Make Today

Dogs love a good adventure! Rain, shine, snow, wind - you name it, they will accept any challenge in any condition! The only downside to having such fun and spontaneous romps is the effect it could have on your poor dog's coat and skin. If there is anything you can do to ease the unbearable feeling of dry and itchy skin, it is offering them a warm bath with a soothing oatmeal dog shampoo.

Of course, you could purchase some, but for a fraction of the cost and a little fun in the kitchen, you could learn how to make oatmeal dog shampoo of your very own, in a batch that is sure to last you a few baths. Now, finding the right recipe for your pooch should be an easy feat since we have gathered our five favorites for you to test out.

The Benefits of Oatmeal

If oatmeal hasn't been labeled as a superfood, it definitely should be! Not only does it have incredible health benefits when consumed, but it also aids a variety of skin conditions, such as dermatitis and eczema, when used topically. Oatmeal contains a magical and unique antioxidant called avenanthramide which provides relief from dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It can also act as a sponge for excess oil production, gently exfoliates away dead skin, and creates a hydrating barrier that protects from the elements and other irritants.

Top 7 Simple DIY Recipes for Oatmeal Dog Shampoos

1. DIY Oatmeal Dog Shampoo From MetLife Pet Insurance

Brought to you by the pet experts at MetLife Pet Insurance, this DIY oatmeal dog shampoo takes 10 minutes to prepare. They claim that it helps your dog’s irritated skin and also removes any unpleasant odors your pup might be putting off. The results are said to be a softer, shinier coat that’s clean and beautiful. Fewer coat and skin problems mean fewer vet visits and lower pet insurance premiums! We recommend replacing the dish soap with pure liquid castile soap.

2. Oatmeal Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin From House That Barks

The recipe for DIY oatmeal dog shampoo is simple, with only four ingredients. One is Vitamin E, which supports your dog’s skin and coat equally well. Vitamin E reduces flakiness, a problem that causes itching in many dogs. It also gives your canine companion a glossy coat that’s healthy and luxurious. Once made, this oatmeal dog shampoo can be stored in a plastic bottle for several weeks.

3. Oatmeal Dog Shampoo for Dry Skin From the AKC

Leave it to the American Kennel Club to bring us this excellent DIY oatmeal dog shampoo recipe! You’ll need a grinder or food processor to make the recipe. The AKC also recommends letting it sit in your dog’s coat for a spell so that it can work its magic and help improve its dry skin. One thing is certain; if the AKC recommends it, you know this oatmeal dog shampoo is good!

4. Natural DIY Oatmeal Dog Shampoo From Maple Holistics

This recipe for DIY oatmeal shampoo for dogs is made to be prepared and used immediately. It only has three ingredients: oatmeal, baking soda, and warm water. Once prepared, the maker recommends leaving the shampoo in your dog’s fur for several minutes before rinsing. It is the easiest recipe on this list for dog owners.

5. All-Natural DIY Oatmeal Dog Shampoo From Freebie Finding Mom

Most of the recipes on this list contain natural ingredients, and this one follows suit. It uses only four basic ingredients, and one of them is honey. Honey is antimicrobial and anti-fungal, which means it destroys fungi and microbes that can cause skin problems for your pup. It also reduces inflammation, which can cause itchiness, to help your dog feel great and look even better! Once made, this fantastic oatmeal dog shampoo will last for weeks in a mason jar.

6. DIY Oatmeal Shampoo (Dogs & Cats)

With limited ingredients and the smart option of skipping essential oils (remember we are looking to eliminate irritants!), this recipe is simple and clean. An added bonus is that it is also feline friendly! Get the recipe here.

7. Homemade Oatmeal Shampoo

This option is great for pets with existing conditions or extremely irritated skin as it has only three basic ingredients. Thankfully, they are all items we usually have on hand, making this a great recipe to make when in a pinch! Get the recipe here.

Choosing Ingredients for Oatmeal Dog Shampoo

As you might have noticed, there are a few common ingredients, aside from the obvious oatmeal, that fall into almost every recipe. Each plays a vital role in creating an effective dog shampoo. Baking soda acts as a catalyst to eliminate any lingering odors found in your pup's coat and prevents it from developing before their next bath. A pet-friendly soap is responsible for forming the perfect lather.

Wrapping Up

There you have it! A diverse guide in how to make oatmeal dog shampoo as an inexpensive and effective alternative. Remember when choosing your ingredients that they should all be pet friendly, and approved by your very own pup! If your dog has a skin condition, simple is usually the best medicine! We hope that you have found a recipe here that you both can enjoy for years to come!

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Feature Image Credit: MPH Photos, Shutterstock