Can you use human hairproducts on a dog?

Answer 1

My vet recommended baby shampoo for our puppy- fragrance free, sensitive and gently cleansing- as a good way to introduce her to the bathing process. Beyond eight months of age though, you should always use a reliable shampoo designed for dogs.

Answer 2

I always trust Dr. Mike, DVM..so, I looked it up on his site..vetinfo.com...Here is what Dr. Mike had to say>Question: Dear Dr Mike,

I have searched your site and the only references to bathing or shampoo I
can find have to do with skin problems. Do you see any problem with using
"people" shampoo on dogs, especially if it's a premium type like that sold
in hair salons? Our dog does not have any type of skin or fur problems.

Thanks, RTV

Answer: RTV-

I saw a study once, which I couldn't find to supply the reference for,
which was a review of the ingredients of various pet and people shampoos,
as well as a test of factors like pH and eye irritation. In the study, the
authors could find no significant differences between pet shampoos and
people shampoos. So I tell my clients to use whatever they like, or have on
hand.

I am sure that some shampoos work better on any particular dog than others
but that the brands that work well for that one dog may not be the best for
another dog.

I think that this information is probably also true for conditioners but
have not seen any reviews of the various conditioners to prove or disprove
that. <<

Answer 3

The rule of thumb is 'no'.

However it can depend on what kind of hair product it is, and what kind of fur and skin your dog has.

Most human hair products will irritate a dog's skin, as they contain chemicals suitable for human scalps... which are very different in nature from dog skin. You probably won't notice that the dog's skin is irritable, mainly because dogs are covered in fur. But excessive scratching, rolling, irritated eyes/nose, are sure signs.

In terms of the fur itself, there is little benefit to using human hair products on dogs because dogs come with their own essential oils and so on. These are released via sweat glands. If you think your dog's coat is a bit lacking in terms of vitality, the best way is to improve your dog's diet instead. Adding egg to their meal is a safe and nutritious way to bring out a good silky shine.

The other reason why its generally not a good idea to use human hair products on dogs is because human shampoo/etc doesn't come with things like flea treatments.


But having said that, I used to use natural shampoo on my maltese terrier when I was out of pet shampoo. I just made sure never to use it around his head, and that it was always diluted to a fair degree.

Answer 4

If you were to ask your vet this i am sure they will tell you the same thing i am going to tell you. No..Dogs skin is sensitive to anything containing soap. Most dog shampoos do not contain any soap products as it strips away all their natural oils from their skin. The best shampoo to use on dogs is like an oatmeal wash. This can be purchased from many pet stores and supermarkets..

Answer 5

A dogs hair is a lot different to a humans. You can use it but get doggie shampoo it has the goodness a dog needs.

Answer 6

I think you shouldnt. We dont us dog products on us similarly we shouldnt use human hairproducts on dogs.

Answer 7

For the most part, yes, but because dogs can't be expected to keep it out of their eyes, children's shampoo is the best. It's also more gentle and all-around better for an animal.

Answer 8

You can use human products, I do sometimes, but only baby shampoo would be recommended for dogs...and not really any other products just in case you were thinking of poppin a bit of gel or hairspray on your poooch...animal products are really best cos thats what they are made for animals!!

Answer 9

You should use the shampoos on any pet that you purchase from a pet store...the chemical composition of the shampoo can adversely affect the skin of the dog/cat ....

Why take the chance....even if it appears to be o.k.

Answer 10

on the odd occasion its not going to hurt them but in general u should use a good brand of dog shampoo as products for us can dry out the natural oils in their coats and lead to skin problems.