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10 Best Shampoos for Border Collies in 2024: Reviews & Top Picks

Written by: Jeff Weishaupt

Last Updated on April 12, 2024 by Dogster Team

10 Best Shampoos for Border Collies in 2024: Reviews & Top Picks

closeup of border collie dog while taking a shower in the bathtub

Are you a Border Collie owner looking for the best shampoo for your furry friend? Look no further than our complete and comprehensive guide to the top 10 shampoos for Border Collies!

Finding the right shampoo for your pup can be quite daunting with so many products claiming to be the best. So, we’ve done the research and curated detailed reviews to help make an informed decision.

We took into account a range of factors, like ingredients, skin type, and allergies. Whether you’re looking for a moisturizing shampoo for dry skin or a hypoallergenic pick for a sensitive dog, our guide has you covered.

Read on to discover the best shampoos you can get for your Border Collies.

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A Quick  Look at Our Favorites of 2024

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo
  • Affordable
  • Made with natural ingredients
  • Lathers nicely
  • Budget Buy
    Second place
    TropiClean Deodorizing Aloe TropiClean Deodorizing Aloe
  • Fresh tropical scent
  • Gentle and pH balanced
  • Lathers well and is easy to rinse
  • Third place
    Isle of Dogs Silky Coating Dog Shampoo Isle of Dogs Silky Coating Dog Shampoo
  • Jasmine and vanilla fragrance
  • Helps detangle your dog’s fur
  • Formulated with natural ingredients
  • K9 Pro Oatmeal Dog Shampoo and Conditioner K9 Pro Oatmeal Dog Shampoo and Conditioner
  • Tearless formula
  • Made in the USA
  • pH balanced to match your puppy’s skin
  • Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo
  • Available in a variety of scents
  • All-natural, biodegradable ingredients
  • Oatmeal and aloe vera to soothe itchy skin
  • The 10 Best Shampoos for Border Collies

    1. Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo – Best Overall

    Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo (Aloe and Cucumber Scent)

    Scent: Aloe and cucumber
    Size: 16 oz
    Lifestage: All life stages
    Feature: Moisturizes and nourishes dry skin, clean ingredients, no soaps
    Ingredients: Aloe, oatmeal, etc.

    With the clean ingredients and benefits for dog skin, we can’t help but choose the Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo as our best overall shampoo for Border Collies. This shampoo is free soaps, dea, gluten, sulfates, phthalates, and synthetic dyes. The oatmeal formula is helpful in reducing dry, itchy skin and helps soothe it at the same time. Plus, the cucumber and aloe scent is refreshing and perfect for reducing stinky pet odors. The biggest downside is that they don’t ship outside of the US. However, if you can get your hands on it, it’s the best way to go!

    At Dogster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool pet company!

    Pros
    • Soothes and moisturizes dry and itchy skin
    • Made with natural ingredients
    • Free from soaps, dea, gluten, sulfates, phthalates, and synthetic dyes
    • Affordable
    • Lathers nicely
    Cons
    • Doesn’t ship outside of US

    2. TropiClean Deodorizing Pet Shampoo – Budget Buy

    Tropiclean Shampoo

    Scent: Aloe and Coconut
    Size: 20 oz
    Lifestage: All life stages
    Feature: Tearless, soap-free, cruelty-free, pH-balanced
    Ingredients: Aloe vera, coconut oil, papaya, mango, chamomile, oatmeal

    The TropiClean Deodorizing Aloe & Coconut Dog & Cat Shampoo is the ideal pick for pet owners looking for shampoo at an affordable price. This shampoo consists of natural ingredients, including aloe vera and coconut oil. These work together to soothe and moisturize your Border Collie’s skin and coat.

    It also contains oatmeal to provide gentle cleansing without irritating the skin. Plus, this shampoo is tearless, making it safe for use on puppies and dogs with sensitive eyes. Its fresh tropical scent will leave your dog smelling clean and refreshed.

    Its high-quality ingredients are already quite compelling, but the affordable price makes it an even better pick. There’s no doubt that this is the best Border Collie shampoo for the money.

    Pros
    • Aloe vera and coconut to soothe the skin
    • Fresh tropical scent
    • Gentle and pH balanced
    • Lathers well and is easy to rinse
    Cons
    • Cannot remove tough stains on fur

    3. Isle of Dogs Silky Coating Dog ShampooIsle of Dogs Silky Coating Dog Shampoo

    Scent: Jasmine and Vanilla
    Size: 16.9 oz
    Lifestage: All life stages
    Feature: Detangling, sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free
    Ingredients: Panthenol, jojoba oil, violet leaf extract, silk amino acids

    The Isle of Dogs Silky Coating Dog Shampoo is a great pick for those who want to pamper their pups with premium-quality shampoo. This pick stands out from the rest with its unique blend of ingredients. That includes evening primrose oil, jojoba oil, and keratin amino acids.

    These ingredients help maintain the softness and shine of your dog’s coat. Plus, they also promote healthy skin. This shampoo has a lush floral scent that leaves your dog smelling fresh and clean for days.

    Overall, the Isle of Dogs Everyday Silky Coating Shampoo is the perfect choice to give your dog an indulgent grooming experience.

    Pros
    • Jasmine and vanilla fragrance
    • Helps detangle your dog’s fur
    • Formulated with natural ingredients
    Cons
    • Not suitable for sensitive skin
    • Somewhat expensive
    • Does not reduce shedding

    4. K9 Pro Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner

    K9 Pro Oatmeal Dog Shampoo and Conditioner

    Scent: Aloe and Oatmeal
    Size: 17 oz
    Lifestage: Puppies
    Feature: Tearless, hypoallergenic, pH-balanced, soap-free
    Ingredients: Aloe vera, chamomile extract, oatmeal, shea butter, vitamin E

    The K9 Pro Oatmeal Dog Shampoo and Conditioner is the perfect pick for puppy owners looking for a gentle shampoo. Made with all-natural ingredients, this tearless shampoo won’t irritate your pup’s sensitive skin. Its mild formula will clean and condition your pup’s fur while leaving a pleasant smell.

    This hypoallergenic shampoo is perfect for puppies with allergies or skin sensitivities. That means it’s a versatile option for a wide range of breeds. The formula is gentle enough to use often, ensuring your pup’s coat remains clean and healthy.

    Lastly, the K9 Pro Tearless Puppy Shampoo comes with a handy pump for easy dispensing.

    Pros
    • Aloe vera and oatmeal to soothe the skin
    • Tearless formula
    • Made in the USA
    • pH balanced to match your puppy’s skin
    Cons
    • Not suitable for adult dogs
    • The scent is not long-lasting

    5. Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo

    Earthbath Oatmeal

    Scent: Oatmeal and aloe, mango tango, tea tree, and aloe.
    Size: 16 oz
    Lifestage: All life stages
    Feature: All-natural, biodegradable, soap-free, cruelty-free, pH-balanced
    Ingredients: Aloe vera, oatmeal, coconut-based cleansers, vitamin E, glycerin

    The Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo is the perfect choice for dogs with allergies. Made with aloe vera and oatmeal, this shampoo caters to your dog’s sensitive skin or allergies. It cleans and deodorizes your pet’s coat, leaving it fresh and soft.

    This shampoo has no harsh chemicals, soap, or synthetic dyes, making it a safe option for pets. It’s also cruelty-free and biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly choice. Its organic ingredients make it a top pick for pet parents avoiding harsh chemicals in the grooming routine.

    The Earthbath All Natural Pet Shampoo is also available in various scents. That includes vanilla and almond, oatmeal and aloe, and tea tree and peppermint. However, it doesn’t lather well and has a thin consistency.

    Pros
    • All-natural, biodegradable ingredients
    • Free of parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances
    • Oatmeal and aloe vera to soothe itchy skin
    • Available in a variety of scents
    Cons
    • Doesn’t lather well
    • Thin consistency
    • Somewhat expensive

    6. Burt’s Bees for Dogs Oatmeal Dog Shampoo

    Burt's Bees Oatmeal Shampoo with Colloidal Oat Flour & Honey for Dogs

    Scent: Fragrance-free
    Size: 16 oz
    Lifestage: All life stages
    Feature: pH-balanced, cruelty-free, made with natural ingredients
    Ingredients: Honey, colloidal oat flour, beeswax, buttermilk, coconut oil

    For pet parents wanting to keep their furry friend’s coat hydrated, Burt’s Bees for Dogs Oatmeal Dog Shampoo is the ideal choice. This high-quality pet shampoo contains honey, known for its hydrating properties. It’s also pH balanced, so it won’t irritate or dry out your pet’s skin.

    Burt’s Bees for Pets is free of harsh chemicals and cruelty-free. So, you can be sure you’re using a safe and ethical product on your pet. The shampoo is easy to lather and rinse out, leaving your pet’s coat feeling soft, shiny, and smelling great.

    It also helps soothe dry, itchy skin, making it an excellent choice for pets prone to allergies.  It doesn’t lather well though, and it might not be the most suitable choice for your dog depending on their skin type.

    Pros
    • Made with honey, beeswax, and chamomile
    • pH balanced
    • Free of sulfates, fragrances, and colorants
    • Affordable price point
    Cons
    • Doesn’t lather well
    • Not suitable for certain skin conditions

    7. 4Legger All Natural Dog Shampoo

    4Legger Aloe Vera

    Scent: Coconut and Lemongrass
    Size: 16 oz
    Lifestage: All life stages
    Feature: Organic, hypoallergenic, moisturizing, soap-free, cruelty-free, vegan
    Ingredients: Aloe vera, lemongrass oil, coconut oil, olive oil, rosemary extract

    Pet parents looking for a natural shampoo should look no further than the 4Legger Aloe Vera, Lemongrass, Coconut Oil, All Natural Dog Shampoo. This shampoo contains certified organic and hypoallergenic ingredients. That means it’s gentle on your pet’s skin and coat.

    The lemongrass and aloe vera hydrate your dog’s skin, resulting in a healthy, shiny coat. The formula is also free of harsh chemicals, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. So, it’s an ideal option for pets with sensitive skin.

    The 4-Legger shampoo also comes in a recyclable bottle and is cruelty-free. Plus, a small amount can go a long way with this concentrated formula, making it a cost-effective pick.

    Pros
    • Made with certified organic ingredients
    • Eco-friendly packaging
    • Long-lasting lemongrass scent
    • Natural cleansing and moisturizing properties
    Cons
    • Doesn’t lather well
    • Somewhat expensive

    8. Rocco & Roxie Dog Shampoo & Conditioner

    Rocco & Roxie Dog

    Scent: Fresh and floral
    Size: 16 oz
    Lifestage: All life stages
    Feature: Tear-free, hypoallergenic, pH-balanced, cruelty-free
    Ingredients: Coconut-based cleansers, aloe vera, chamomile, oatmeal, vitamins A, D, and E

    Rocco & Roxie Dog Shampoo and Conditioner is a great option for pet owners wanting to give their pup a deep cleaning experience. This shampoo works to penetrate deep into the coat to remove dirt, oil, and odor. It contains rosemary extract and aloe vera to help soothe and nourish the skin.

    One of the best features of Rocco & Roxie Dog Shampoo is the lack of harsh chemicals, parabens, and sulfates. This shampoo also has a mild scent that leaves your dog smelling fresh and clean for days after use. It’s easy to rinse out, which can be a huge relief for pet owners who have dogs that are reluctant to take a bath. It is expensive, however, and the scent doesn’t last very long.

    Pros
    • Aloe vera, oatmeal, and shea butter to soothe the skin
    • Pleasant lavender and chamomile scent
    • Reduces shedding
    • Free of sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • The scent is not long-lasting
    • Doesn’t lather well

    9. PetAg Fresh ‘n Clean Scented Dog Shampoo

    PetAg Fresh

    Scent: Fresh and floral
    Size: 18 oz
    Lifestage: All life stages
    Feature: Long-lasting scent, pH-balanced, soap-free
    Ingredients: Aloe vera, vitamin E, safflower seed oil, hydrolyzed wheat protein, fragrance

    If you need a shampoo to deodorize your dog, look no further than PetAg Fresh’ n Clean Scented Dog Shampoo. This shampoo is specifically formulated to deodorize and refresh your dog’s coat. So, it leaves a long-lasting fragrance that you’ll surely appreciate.

    Its powerful yet gentle formula cleanses your dog’s coat and skin without stripping away essential oils. This is even more important for dogs with sensitive skin or allergies. It also helps moisturize and soothe your dog’s skin with aloe vera and vitamin E.

    The scent of this shampoo is pleasant without being overpowering. So, it won’t leave you or your dog feeling overwhelmed by a strong perfume smell. Plus, it lathers well and rinses clean, making bath time fun and easy for both you and your furry friend.

    Pros
    • Pleasant, long-lasting scent
    • Made in the USA
    • Gentle enough for frequent use
    • Contains antistatic agents to reduce frizz
    Cons
    • Contains synthetic fragrances
    • Not suitable for sensitive skin

    10. Zesty Paws Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal & Aloe Vera

    Zesty Paws Dog Shampoo

    Scent: Vanilla
    Size: 16 oz
    Lifestage: All life stages
    Feature: Anti-itch, pH-balanced, sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free
    Ingredients: Oatmeal, aloe vera, vitamin E, shea butter, lavender oil, coconut oil.

    The Zesty Paws Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal & Aloe Vera is the perfect solution for pups with itchy, dry, and irritated skin. This all-natural formula has oatmeal, aloe vera, and tea tree oil to relieve itching.

    This shampoo cleanses and moisturizes the skin without stripping natural oils. That means it leaves your dog’s coat looking and feeling soft, shiny, and healthy. It’s also free from harsh chemicals, making it safe for all coat types and sensitive skin.

    Zesty Paws Oatmeal Anti-Itch Dog Shampoo comes in a convenient pump bottle. That makes it easy to dispense the right amount of shampoo for your dog’s needs. Lastly, its pleasant scent will leave your pup smelling fresh and clean after every wash.

    Pros
    • Oatmeal, aloe vera, and vitamin E to soothe the skin
    • Helps relieve itching, flaking, and hot spots
    • pH-balanced formula
    • Suitable for dogs of all stages and breeds
    Cons
    • Not effective for severe skin conditions
    • Scent is not long lasting

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    Buyer’s Guide: How to Pick the Best Shampoo for Border Collie

    Choosing the right shampoo for your Border Collie can be quite confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few factors to consider and make an informed purchase for your furry friend:

    Ingredients

    When choosing a shampoo for your Border Collie, the ingredients are the most important factors to consider. Look for shampoos made with natural and high-quality ingredients. That may include essential oils and plant extracts.

    These ingredients are gentler on your dog’s skin and offer a range of health benefits. Harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and sulfates harm your dog’s skin and coat. They lead to dryness, irritation, and allergic reactions. Additionally, these ingredients can strip away the natural oils in the dog’s coat.

    Avoid shampoos with ingredients your dog may be allergic to. That may include certain essential oils or fragrances. If your dog has sensitive skin, it may be best to choose a hypoallergenic shampoo.

    Skin Type

    When choosing a shampoo for your Border Collie, it’s important to consider their skin type. Like humans, dogs can have different skin types, ranging from dry to oily and even sensitive. An inappropriate shampoo can lead to skin irritation, itching, and other skin issues.

    If your Border Collie has dry or itchy skin, choose a shampoo with soothing ingredients. That includes oatmeal, chamomile, and aloe vera. These ingredients can help soothe and hydrate the skin, reducing itching and irritation.

    For dogs with sensitive skin, pick a hypoallergenic or fragrance-free shampoo. These shampoos are sure to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. That means they’re 100% safe for dogs with sensitive skin.

    If your Border Collie has oily skin, you may want to look for a shampoo to control excess oil production. These shampoos often contain ingredients like tea tree oil and zinc. Such ingredients can help balance the skin’s natural oil production.

    brown white border collie running
    Image Credit: Krasula, Shutterstock

    Life Stage

    Choosing a shampoo appropriate for your Border Collie’s age is important. Puppies have more sensitive skin than adults, and their skin is still developing. So, choose a shampoo that is only designed for puppies specifically.

    Puppy shampoos are gentle and mild, with fewer harsh chemicals to irritate their skin. On the other hand, adult dogs have fully developed skin. So, their shampoo can be more specialized depending on their skin type and grooming needs.

    Some shampoos have formulas suitable for both puppies and adult dogs. Still, always check the label to ensure the shampoo is safe for your dog’s life stage. The right shampoo can help maintain your Border Collie’s healthy skin and coat.

    Grooming Needs

    You must also consider grooming needs when choosing a shampoo for your Border Collie. Border Collies have thick coats that require frequent grooming to keep them healthy and shiny. Your dog’s grooming needs may vary based on its activity level, coat length, and coat type.

    If your Border Collie has a thick coat, consider a shampoo to help detangle and soften the fur. Some shampoos contain ingredients that can help moisturize and nourish the coat. This can prevent it from becoming dry and brittle.

    For Border Collies that shed a lot, consider a shampoo that can help reduce shedding. Some shampoos contain natural ingredients that can help loosen the undercoat. That makes it easier to remove during brushing and grooming.

    If your Border Collie gets dirty during outdoor activities, look for a clarifying shampoo to help remove dirt and debris. The shampoo should also be gentle on the skin and coat.

    Brand

    Of course, you must also consider the reputation of the brand. Look for a company with a reputation for producing high-quality and safe pet products. You can check its website, social media presence, and online reviews from other dog owners.

    A reputable brand will use high-quality and safe ingredients in its products. They’ll aim to ensure their shampoos are gentle on your dog’s skin and coat. They’ll also have good manufacturing practices, like making their products in a safe and hygienic environment.

    Choosing a reputable brand can also give you peace of mind in terms of product safety. Some lesser-known brands may use questionable ingredients or manufacturing practices. This could pose a risk to your dog’s health.

    red border collie beside a wall
    Image Credit: Kazantseva Olga, Shutterstock

    Price

    Price is a critical factor to consider when buying shampoo for your Border Collie. While buying the most expensive option available may be tempting, price doesn’t always reflect quality. Many affordable options also offer good quality and effectiveness.

    When considering the price, factor in the frequency of use. If you plan on bathing your Border Collie often, choose a more affordable option to save on cost. But, if you only plan on bathing your dog rarely, invest in a higher-end shampoo for the added benefits.

    Plus, some shampoos may be more concentrated than others, meaning a little goes a long way. Even if a shampoo appears more expensive, it may last longer than a cheaper option. That makes it more cost-effective in the long run.

    Ultimately, finding a balance between price and quality is key. Consider your budget and the needs of your Border Collie when selecting a shampoo. Don’t be afraid to look around and compare prices to find the best option for you and your furry friend.

    Flea & Tick Control

    The flea and tick control aspect is crucial when buying shampoo for your Border Collie. That’s especially true if your dog spends much time outdoors or in areas with tall grass or wooded areas.

    Look for shampoos that contain natural ingredients to repel fleas and ticks. That includes neem oil, citronella, and cedarwood oil. Avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals such as pyrethrin, which can harm dogs. It can be even worse when used often or in large quantities. Always follow the instructions and consult your vet before using flea or tick control products on your dog.

    pH Balance

    The pH level of your pup’s skin is somewhat acidic, ranging between 6.2 and 7.5. Shampoos that are too alkaline or too acidic can disrupt the natural balance of your dog’s skin. This leads to issues such as dryness, itching, and irritation.

    A shampoo formulated to match your dog’s pH level can help maintain healthy skin and coat. Additionally, balanced pH shampoos can help prevent other issues related to pH imbalance. That includes skin infections and fungal growth.

    To determine the pH level of a shampoo, you can look at the label or contact the manufacturer. Ideally, the shampoo should have a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. This is considered a neutral to slightly acidic range safe for your dog’s skin.

    Young border collie standing in a meadow
    Image Credit: Dora Zett, Shutterstock

    Allergies

    Some shampoos may contain ingredients that could trigger an allergic reaction. If your dog has allergies, look for a hypoallergenic shampoo for sensitive skin.

    Hypoallergenic shampoos are free from common allergens like fragrances, dyes, and preservatives. This makes them less likely to cause allergic reactions. They are also designed to be gentle on the skin, so they can help soothe any existing skin irritations.

    It’s best to call your vet and determine if your dog has any specific allergies to some ingredients. Ask for their recommendation for a suitable shampoo. By choosing a gentle shampoo for your Border Collie’s skin, you can ensure a comfortable bath time for your furry friend.

    Convenience

    Consider the ease of use and application of the shampoo. Some shampoos may need extra steps, like conditioning or leaving the shampoo on for a long time. If you’re busy or your dog is uncomfortable with longer grooming sessions, look for a simple shampoo with no extra steps.

    When considering convenience, consider the frequency of use as well. If you plan to bathe your Border Collie often, choose a shampoo gentle enough not to dry out your dog’s skin. Additionally, look for a shampoo that is easy to rinse off and does not leave a residue. Some shampoos may also come in a spray or foam form. This can make application easier, especially for dogs afraid of water or bathing.

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    Conclusion

    Finding the right shampoo for your Border Collie is no easy feat. Luckily, our list of reviews has something for everyone.

    There’s no doubt that the Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is the best overall choice. Its natural and high-quality ingredients are highly effective in addressing various skin issues.

    For those on a budget, the TropiClean Aloe and Coconut Pet Shampoo is the best for the money. It combines an affordable price with gentle and moisturizing deep cleaning.

    Lastly, if you want to indulge your furry friend, the Isle of Dogs Silky Coating Dog Shampoo is our third pick. It guarantees exceptional results and a luxurious grooming experience.


    Featured Image Credit: MinekPSC, Shutterstock

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