DIY Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin: Gentle, All-Natural Solution

Things You'll Need

• Liquid castile soap

• Aloe vera gel

• Vegetable oil

• Measuring spoons and cups

• Glass jar with lid

• Eucalyptus essential oil, or pennyroyal essential oil

Dogs often suffer dry, itchy skin that can cause hot spots, balding, and a host of other problems. Dogs with dry, itchy skin still need bathing, but it is important not to make their skin even more dry with harsh chemical shampoos. Making your own dog shampoo will help keep your pet clean, and it may even help stop excessive itching. Natural shampoos will help remove dander and dirt without drying your dog's skin.

Step 1

Pour 2 cups of water into a sterile jar. Add 2 teaspoons of liquid castile soap, which is a mild soap made from olive oil and sodium hydroxide. Castile soap does not contain any sulfates that can be drying. You can find castile soap in the health and beauty section of stores that specialize in natural living.

Step 2

Add 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel, and 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil. Put the lid on the jar and shake it well, so all the ingredients combine. Shake the mixture before each use.

A word of caution: commercially prepared aloe vera gels are fine to use on your dog, but never apply aloe straight from the aloe leaf, as this could be harmful if the dog licks it. Pure aloe contains saponins, which can be toxic if ingested by the dog.

Step 3

Using an eyedropper, add 2 to 3 drops of eucalyptus essential oil, or pennyroyal essential oil to your natural dog shampoo if your dog has fleas. These essential oils will help get rid of the fleas without exposing your dog to harmful chemicals.