Best Shampoo for Alaskan Malamutes

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is Burt's Bees Hypoallergenic Shampoo with Shea Butter & Honey — best for Sensitive skin and allergies. Why it wins: Soothes and moisturizes sensitive skin.

Alaskan Malamutes have a unique coat type that requires special care. Their thick double coat sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes, and can be prone to skin sensitivities and allergies. Bathing an Alaskan Malamute requires a gentle yet effective shampoo that can manage their coat and skin needs. When it comes to shampooing an Alaskan Malamute, it's essential to consider their skin's pH balance and potential allergens. A shampoo that is pH balanced and hypoallergenic can help soothe and moisturize their skin, reducing the risk of irritation and allergic reactions. With their high energy level and playful nature, Alaskan Malamutes can get dirty quickly, making regular bathing a necessity. A shampoo that can effectively clean their coat without stripping it of its natural oils is crucial for maintaining their overall health and well-being.

What to look for

pH Balance and Hypoallergenic Properties

Alaskan Malamutes require a shampoo that is pH balanced and hypoallergenic to avoid irritating their sensitive skin. Look for shampoos with natural ingredients and no harsh chemicals or fragrances. A pH balanced shampoo will help maintain the skin's natural barrier, reducing the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.

Moisturizing Properties

Alaskan Malamutes have a thick double coat that can be prone to dryness and irritation. A shampoo with moisturizing properties can help soothe and hydrate their skin, reducing the risk of dryness and irritation.

Deshedding Properties

Alaskan Malamutes shed heavily, especially during seasonal changes. A shampoo with deshedding properties can help reduce excess shedding and prevent matting and tangling.

Gentle and Non-Irritating

Alaskan Malamutes have sensitive skin and require a shampoo that is gentle and non-irritating. Look for shampoos with natural ingredients and no harsh chemicals or fragrances.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Burt's Bees Hypoallergenic Shampoo with Shea Butter & Honey	Sensitive skin and allergies
2	Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo	Dry and irritated skin
3	FURminator deShedding Ultra Premium Shampoo	Heavy shedding
4	TropiClean Luxury 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo	Coat and skin health
5	4-Legger USDA Certified Organic Dog Shampoo	Organic and natural ingredients

Burt's Bees Hypoallergenic Shampoo with Shea Butter & Honey

Best for Sensitive skin and allergies

This shampoo is perfect for Alaskan Malamutes with sensitive skin and allergies. The oatmeal and shea butter help soothe and moisturize the skin, reducing the risk of irritation and allergic reactions. The pH balanced formula ensures that the skin's natural barrier is maintained, reducing the risk of irritation and dryness.

✓ Soothes and moisturizes sensitive skin
✓ pH balanced formula
✓ Hypoallergenic properties

✕ May not be as effective for heavy shedding

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Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo

Best for Dry and irritated skin

This shampoo is perfect for Alaskan Malamutes with dry and irritated skin. The oatmeal and aloe vera help soothe and moisturize the skin, reducing the risk of dryness and irritation. The soap-free and pH balanced formula ensures that the skin's natural barrier is maintained, reducing the risk of irritation and dryness.

✓ Soothes and moisturizes dry skin
✓ pH balanced formula
✓ Soap-free

✕ May not be as effective for heavy shedding

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FURminator deShedding Ultra Premium Shampoo

Best for Heavy shedding

This shampoo is perfect for Alaskan Malamutes with heavy shedding. The omega fatty acids and papaya leaf extract help reduce excess shedding and prevent matting and tangling. The pH balanced formula ensures that the skin's natural barrier is maintained, reducing the risk of irritation and dryness.

✓ Reduces excess shedding
✓ pH balanced formula
✓ Gentle and non-irritating

✕ May not be as effective for sensitive skin

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TropiClean Luxury 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo

Best for Coat and skin health

This shampoo is perfect for Alaskan Malamutes who need a gentle and effective shampoo for their coat and skin health. The papaya and coconut extracts help moisturize and nourish the skin, reducing the risk of dryness and irritation. The pH balanced formula ensures that the skin's natural barrier is maintained, reducing the risk of irritation and dryness.

✓ Moisturizes and nourishes the skin
✓ pH balanced formula
✓ Gentle and non-irritating

✕ May not be as effective for heavy shedding

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4-Legger USDA Certified Organic Dog Shampoo

Best for Organic and natural ingredients

This shampoo is perfect for Alaskan Malamutes who need a shampoo with organic and natural ingredients. The lemongrass and aloe vera help soothe and moisturize the skin, reducing the risk of dryness and irritation. The pH balanced formula ensures that the skin's natural barrier is maintained, reducing the risk of irritation and dryness.

✓ Organic and natural ingredients
✓ pH balanced formula
✓ Gentle and non-irritating

✕ May not be as effective for heavy shedding

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Frequently asked questions

How often should I bathe my Alaskan Malamute?

Alaskan Malamutes should be bathed every 2-3 months, or as needed. Over-bathing can strip their coat of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

What is the best shampoo for Alaskan Malamutes with sensitive skin?

For Alaskan Malamutes with sensitive skin, look for a shampoo that is pH balanced, hypoallergenic, and gentle. Avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals or fragrances, and opt for natural ingredients instead.

Can I use human shampoo on my Alaskan Malamute?

No, human shampoo should not be used on Alaskan Malamutes. Human shampoo can be too harsh for their skin and coat, leading to dryness, irritation, and other health issues. Instead, use a dog-specific shampoo that is pH balanced and gentle.

How can I reduce shedding in my Alaskan Malamute?

To reduce shedding in your Alaskan Malamute, use a deshedding shampoo and conditioner, and brush their coat regularly. You can also try using a Furminator tool to help remove loose hair and reduce shedding.

What are the most common skin issues in Alaskan Malamutes?

Alaskan Malamutes are prone to skin issues such as dryness, irritation, and allergies. They can also be prone to skin infections and hot spots. If you notice any skin issues in your Alaskan Malamute, consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

When it comes to choosing the best shampoo for your Alaskan Malamute, consider their unique coat type and skin needs. Look for a shampoo that is pH balanced, hypoallergenic, and gentle, and avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals or fragrances. By choosing the right shampoo, you can help keep your Alaskan Malamute's coat and skin healthy, reducing the risk of dryness, irritation, and other health issues.

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