Best Shampoo for Portuguese Water Dogs

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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Our top pick is Burt's Bees Hypoallergenic Shampoo with Shea Butter & Honey — best for Sensitive skin and curly coats. Why it wins: Gentle and non-irritating.

Portuguese Water Dogs' distinctive curly coats require regular care to prevent matting and tangling. However, their sensitive skin can be prone to allergies and irritations, making it crucial to choose a gentle and hypoallergenic shampoo. The breed's low-shedding coat means they don't need deshedding formulas, but instead, a shampoo that moisturizes and nourishes their skin. When bathing a Portuguese Water Dog, it's essential to consider their skin's pH balance and avoid harsh ingredients that can strip their coat of its natural oils. A shampoo that is specifically designed for sensitive skin and curly coats can help to lock in moisture, reduce frizz, and prevent irritations. With their high energy levels and love of swimming, Portuguese Water Dogs can be prone to skin conditions such as seborrhea and scale buildup, making it vital to choose a shampoo that is not only gentle but also medicated to treat these conditions.

What to look for

pH Balance

Portuguese Water Dogs' skin has a natural pH balance that should be maintained to prevent irritations and allergies. Look for a shampoo that is pH-balanced and specifically designed for dogs. A pH-balanced shampoo will help to maintain the skin's natural barrier and prevent dryness and itchiness.

Hypoallergenic Ingredients

Due to their sensitive skin, Portuguese Water Dogs require a shampoo with hypoallergenic ingredients that are gentle and non-irritating. Avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes that can cause allergic reactions and skin irritations.

Moisturizing Properties

Portuguese Water Dogs' curly coats need a shampoo that moisturizes and nourishes their skin to prevent dryness and frizz. Look for a shampoo with natural ingredients such as oatmeal, aloe vera, and shea butter that help to lock in moisture and soothe the skin.

Medicated Formulas

Portuguese Water Dogs can be prone to skin conditions such as seborrhea and scale buildup, making it essential to choose a shampoo that is medicated to treat these conditions. Look for a shampoo with antifungal, antibacterial, and antiparasitic properties to help prevent and treat skin infections.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Burt's Bees Hypoallergenic Shampoo with Shea Butter & Honey	Sensitive skin and curly coats
2	Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo	Itchy and dry skin
3	TropiClean Luxury 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo	Curly coats and sensitive skin
4	Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo	Seborrhea and skin infections
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 curly coats

This shampoo is specifically designed for sensitive skin and curly coats, making it an excellent choice for Portuguese Water Dogs. The hypoallergenic formula is gentle and non-irritating, while the shea butter and honey help to moisturize and nourish the skin.

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

✕ May not be suitable for dogs with severe skin conditions

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Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo

Best for Itchy and dry skin

This shampoo is specifically designed to relieve itching and dry skin, making it an excellent choice for Portuguese Water Dogs with skin allergies and irritations. The colloidal oatmeal and aloe vera help to soothe and calm the skin.

✓ Relieves itching and dry skin
✓ Soothes and calms the skin
✓ Soap-free and pH-balanced

✕ May not be suitable for dogs with oily coats

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

Best for Curly coats and sensitive skin

This 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner is specifically designed for curly coats and sensitive skin, making it an excellent choice for Portuguese Water Dogs. The papaya and coconut extracts help to moisturize and nourish the skin.

✓ Moisturizes and nourishes the skin
✓ Gentle and non-irritating
✓ Soap-free and paraben-free

✕ May not be suitable for dogs with severe skin conditions

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Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo

Best for Seborrhea and skin infections

This medicated shampoo is specifically designed to treat seborrhea and skin infections, making it an excellent choice for Portuguese Water Dogs with skin conditions. The antifungal, antibacterial, and antiparasitic properties help to prevent and treat skin infections.

✓ Treats seborrhea and skin infections
✓ Antifungal, antibacterial, and antiparasitic properties
✓ Medicated formula

✕ May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin

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4-Legger USDA Certified Organic Dog Shampoo

Best for Organic and natural ingredients

This USDA Certified Organic shampoo is specifically designed for dogs with sensitive skin and allergies, making it an excellent choice for Portuguese Water Dogs. The lemongrass and aloe formula helps to soothe and calm the skin.

✓ USDA Certified Organic ingredients
✓ Gentle and non-irritating
✓ No synthetic preservatives or fragrances

✕ May not be suitable for dogs with severe skin conditions

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best shampoo for Portuguese Water Dogs with sensitive skin?

The best shampoo for Portuguese Water Dogs with sensitive skin is a hypoallergenic and pH-balanced shampoo that is gentle and non-irritating. Look for a shampoo with natural ingredients such as oatmeal, aloe vera, and shea butter that help to soothe and calm the skin.

How often should I bathe my Portuguese Water Dog?

Portuguese Water Dogs should be bathed every 2-3 weeks, or as needed. Over-bathing can strip their coat of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritations. It's essential to choose a gentle and moisturizing shampoo to prevent dryness and frizz.

Can I use human shampoo on my Portuguese Water Dog?

No, human shampoo should not be used on dogs. Human shampoo is formulated for human skin and can be too harsh for a dog's sensitive skin, leading to irritations and allergies. It's essential to choose a dog-specific shampoo that is pH-balanced and gentle.

What are the common skin conditions that affect Portuguese Water Dogs?

Portuguese Water Dogs can be prone to skin conditions such as seborrhea, skin infections, and allergies. It's essential to choose a shampoo that is medicated to treat these conditions and to consult with a licensed veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How can I prevent skin irritations and allergies in my Portuguese Water Dog?

To prevent skin irritations and allergies in your Portuguese Water Dog, choose a gentle and hypoallergenic shampoo, avoid over-bathing, and keep their coat clean and well-maintained. It's also essential to consult with a licensed veterinarian for proper guidance and advice on skin care and health.

When choosing a shampoo for your Portuguese Water Dog, it's essential to consider their sensitive skin and curly coat. Look for a shampoo that is hypoallergenic, pH-balanced, and gentle, and that is specifically designed for their coat type. By choosing the right shampoo, you can help to keep your dog's skin and coat healthy, and prevent irritations and allergies. Consult with a licensed veterinarian for personalized advice on skin care and health.

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