DIY Natural Dog Shampoo: Easy Homemade Formula

Things You'll Need

• Large bowl or bucket

• 1 cup all-natural liquid dish soap

• 1 cup water

• Long-handled spoon or ladle

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/3 cup glycerin

• Bottle

Warning

Don't get soap in your dog's ears or eyes -- even a gentle soap could cause discomfort.

Tip

Start with less shampoo than you think you'll need. Add more shampoo, if necessary.

Prepare homemade dog shampoo if you're looking for a natural alternative to store-bought pet products. In addition to protecting your companion from harsh detergents, making your own dog shampoo costs less than buying it. Make a large batch of pet shampoo and store it in an air-tight container if you own multiple dogs. Rinse your dog thoroughly after washing him -- shampoo residue can irritate his skin.

Step 1

Pour 1 cup gentle, all-natural liquid dish soap into a bowl -- this will form the base your dog shampoo. This ingredient helps loosen dirt and other debris.

Step 2

Add 1 cup water to thin out the soap. Mix well, but don't stir too vigorously, otherwise you'll beat the mixture into a lather. Add a little more water if your dog has particularly sensitive skin.

Step 3

Add 1 cup apple cider vinegar. Mix well. This ingredient acts like a deodorant, gives your pet's coat a lustrous shine and helps keep fleas away. It also helps remove soap residue when you rinse out the shampoo. Apple cider vinegar also helps prevent wet dog smell.

Step 4

Add 1/3 cup glycerin. Mix well. Glycerin coats your dog's fur or hair, helping it retain moisture.

Step 5

Store your homemade dog shampoo in an empty bottle. Give it a good shake before each use to mix the glycerin back into the finished product.