Bathing your dog can keep their fur clean and prevent foul odors, which is why it is crucial to choose the right shampoo. Our pups rely on us to provide proper care, so you need to ensure that the shampoo you select suits your dog’s needs.

You probably already have dog shampoo at home if you are a dog parent. But have you ever checked the expiration date on the bottle? If not, it might be time to do so. Dog shampoo can expire, and once it does, it could potentially harm your pup.

Dogs don’t require frequent baths, and many of us forget when we bought the shampoo or want to use the whole bottle before throwing it away. However, that can cause problems. Keep reading the article to learn more about dog shampoo and its expiration date.

How Long Does Dog Shampoo Last?

Once you purchase dog shampoo, as long as it is unopened, it can last up to 3 years, depending on the manufacturer. However, when you open the bottle, the timeframe drastically changes and the shampoo expires quickly. Oxygen changes the composition of the chemicals in the bottle once you open it. Once you open the bottle, most dog shampoos last only 12–18 months. Of course, the expiration dates vary, so we strongly suggest always checking the bottle.

Organic shampoos tend to last longer, commonly up to 36 months, while medical shampoos, such as the ones for fleas, have very short lifespans. Due to the stronger chemicals, these shampoos only last for about 6 months or even less.

Can You Continue Using Expired Dog Shampoo?

The expiration date is on the bottle for a reason, so even using it a couple of days after it expires can lead to severe problems. A few days after the expiration of the shampoo, it might be okay to use, but it could also cause an infection or skin irritation.

Honestly, using an expired shampoo bottle is not worth the risk, so it’s best to follow the guidelines on the bottle. So, do not buy expired shampoos, and throw out the shampoo bottle you have at home once the expiration date passes.

Where Do You Find the Expiration Date?

The location of the expiration date is different on each shampoo bottle, though it’s commonly on the side, bottom, or back of the bottle. The expiration date should be easily visible on the bottle so you or any other dog owner knows how long it will last.

If There’s No Expiration Date on the Shampoo Bottle

If you encounter a shampoo you would like to purchase for your pup that doesn’t have an expiration date, you can do a few things to find more information about it. Try to reach the manufacturer for more details, so either check out their website or call them. If the product doesn’t have an expiration date on the label but has a batch code, you should be able to check it to see how long the bottle lasts.

Also, you could follow the general guidelines for dog shampoo lifespan and throw away the shampoo after 12–18 months of use.

How Do You Know If Your Dog’s Shampoo Has Expired?

You should easily recognize expired dog shampoo. Of course, it’s best to first check the label on the bottle, but there are other indicators that the shampoo is no longer usable. Commonly, the texture and the smell of an expired shampoo is noticeable.

Here are a few ways to check if the shampoo is still good or not:

What Happens If You Use Expired Dog Shampoo?

If you use expired dog shampoo, your dog can suffer from many skin conditions. These are the most common issues that you’ll encounter after using an expired shampoo on your pup:

In the worst cases, the signs can be more severe and cause serious health problems if not treated promptly. So again, our advice is never to use expired shampoo on your furry friend to prevent all of these issues from occurring in the first place.

• Related Read: DIY Dog Shampoos With Coconut Oil You Can Make Today

Do Not Use Human Shampoo on Dogs

If you ever wondered if you can use your shampoo on your dog, the answer is no. There’s a reason that there are dog and human shampoos. The chemicals that human shampoos contain are more acidic and not dog-appropriate. Our furry friends have different pH levels and softer, more sensitive skin, and human shampoo can damage it.

If you use human shampoo on your pup, it will likely cause redness, skin irritation, and possible infections. Our dogs need products that will moisturize their skin and give it the necessary care.

How to Choose a Dog Shampoo

When purchasing dog shampoo, consider the ingredients and find something that works for your dog. There are a couple of do’s and don’ts.

If your dog is still a puppy, choose a puppy-appropriate shampoo that is gentler and has a no-tear recipe. You could also make a DIY homemade dog shampoo.

• See Also: If I Have No Dog Shampoo, What Can I Use?

Safe Dog Shampoos

There are easy ways to recognize safe dog shampoos. The safest products are the organic ones with natural components. They commonly undergo rigorous testing to verify that there are no GMO ingredients or other harmful substances. Here is a list of ingredients you can find in dog shampoos that are safe for your dog:

Ingredients to Avoid

You can find an appropriate shampoo for your dog in almost any pet store. Before purchasing it, read the label to ensure no harmful substances are in the shampoo. Here is a list of ingredients to avoid when buying a dog shampoo:

You May Also Like: Vibrant Life Dog Shampoo Review

Types of Dog Shampoo

There are various types of dog shampoo, which are commonly categorized according to their functions and components. These are the most common types of dog shampoo:

You can choose a shampoo based on your dog’s needs and breed. For instance, your dog may need a medicated shampoo if they have skin allergies.

Dog Shampoo Storage Tips

To prolong the lifespan of your dog shampoo, store it properly. The perfect conditions for storing depend on the product’s ingredient list. It’s always best to follow the instructions labeled on the bottle, but you can also follow these guidelines:

These recommendations can vary depending on the type of shampoo, so read the label carefully or check the manufacturer’s website.

Final Thoughts

As dog parents, we are responsible for everything that happens to our canines. That’s why we should provide them proper care, including their appearance and health. As we discussed, it’s not safe to use expired shampoo on your pup. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so always check the packaging and throw away the shampoo bottle if you notice it expired. You’ll make your pup healthier and safer by using products that are still valid.

See Also:

• Can You Use Cat Shampoo on a Dog?
• 4-Legger Dog Shampoo Review
• Arm & Hammer Dog Shampoo Review

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Featured Image Credit: Vershinin89, Shutterstock