Frequently Asked Questions

Dirty Paws stands apart from other dog shampoos in several key ways:

• 100% Natural Formula: Unlike many "natural" shampoos that still contain some synthetic ingredients, our products are completely natural with no sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrances, or harsh detergents.
• Concentrated Formula: Our shampoo is highly concentrated and can be diluted 1:1, effectively doubling the amount of product. This makes our $25 price point an exceptional value.
• Veterinarian Developed: Our formulas are created in collaboration with veterinary dermatologists who specialize in canine skin health.
• Eco-Friendly: From our ingredients to our packaging, sustainability is built into every aspect of our products.
• Specific Formulas: Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, we offer specialized formulas for different coat needs and skin conditions.

Most importantly, we're dog lovers who created this product because we couldn't find anything good enough for our own dogs. We never compromise on quality, and we're committed to making your dog look and feel their best.

We offer three specialized formulas, each designed for specific needs:

• Sensitive Formula: Ideal for dogs with sensitive skin, allergies, or irritation. Contains colloidal oatmeal and aloe vera to soothe and calm skin while gently cleaning. Best for: Allergic dogs, puppies, and breeds prone to skin issues.
• Shine & Luster Formula: Formulated to enhance coat color and create a brilliant shine. Contains argan oil and jojoba oil for deep conditioning. Best for: Show dogs, dark-coated breeds, and dogs with dull or dry coats.
• Shedding Control Formula: Helps reduce excessive shedding by strengthening hair follicles and removing loose fur. Contains omega fatty acids and biotin. Best for: Heavy shedders like Huskies, German Shepherds, Retrievers, and double-coated breeds.

If you're unsure which formula is right for your dog, you can:

• Try our Dog Coat Quiz for a personalized recommendation
• Chat with our AI assistant Buddy on our Contact Page
• Purchase our Sample Pack which includes 2oz of each formula to test

Yes, Dirty Paws is a highly concentrated formula that should be diluted for most uses. Our 16oz bottle can create up to 32oz of ready-to-use shampoo when diluted properly.

Recommended Dilution Ratios:

• Standard Dilution (Recommended): Mix 1 part shampoo to 1 part water in a separate bottle. This creates a perfect balance of cleaning power and gentleness for regular bathing.
• Light Dilution: For very dirty dogs or heavy shedders, mix 2 parts shampoo to 1 part water for more cleaning power.
• Heavy Dilution: For maintenance bathing of a relatively clean coat, mix 1 part shampoo to 2 parts water for a gentle cleanse.

We recommend pre-diluting in a separate bottle rather than diluting in the tub, as this ensures even distribution of the ingredients and helps the product go further. When properly diluted, each 16oz bottle provides approximately:

• 8-10 baths for large dogs
• 12-15 baths for medium dogs
• 20+ baths for small dogs

For more detailed dilution instructions and our bath-time guide, click here.

The ideal bathing frequency depends on your dog's breed, coat type, activity level, and environment. However, because our formula is 100% natural and doesn't strip your dog's natural oils, it's gentle enough for more frequent bathing than typical shampoos.

General guidelines:

• Dogs with normal skin and coats: Every 4-6 weeks
• Active or outdoor dogs: Every 2-4 weeks
• Dogs with oily coats: Every 2-3 weeks
• Dogs with dry or sensitive skin: Every 6-8 weeks

If your dog has a specific skin condition, always follow your veterinarian's recommendations for bathing frequency.

Between full baths, our Waterless Cleansing Wipes are perfect for spot cleaning or freshening up your dog without a full bath.

Yes, our Sensitive Formula is specifically formulated to be gentle enough for puppies. We recommend waiting until puppies are at least 8 weeks old before their first bath with any shampoo, including ours.

For puppies under 12 weeks, we recommend using the Sensitive Formula at a slightly higher dilution (1 part shampoo to 2 parts water) to ensure extra gentleness on their developing skin and coat.

As with all bathing products, be careful to avoid getting the shampoo in your puppy's eyes, ears, or mouth. If your puppy has any adverse reaction to the shampoo, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.

For the best results with Dirty Paws, we recommend following these steps:

1. Preparation: Brush your dog thoroughly before bathing to remove loose fur and tangles.
2. Water Temperature: Use lukewarm water. Too hot can dry out skin, too cold can be uncomfortable.
3. Wet Thoroughly: Completely saturate your dog's coat with water before applying shampoo.
4. Apply Diluted Shampoo: Following our dilution guidelines, apply the diluted shampoo starting at the neck and working your way down, avoiding the face, eyes, and ears.
5. Massage In: Use your fingertips to massage the shampoo into the coat, reaching the skin beneath. This increases cleaning effectiveness and feels great for your dog!
6. Let It Sit: For maximum benefit, allow the shampoo to remain on your dog's coat for 3-5 minutes before rinsing.
7. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse until the water runs clear. Leftover shampoo residue can cause irritation.
8. Face Cleaning: For the face, use a damp washcloth with a small amount of diluted shampoo, carefully avoiding the eyes and ears.
9. Drying: Towel dry first, then either air dry or use a blow dryer on a low, cool setting.

For a more detailed bathing guide including breed-specific tips, check out our Perfect Bath Guide on our blog.

Many dogs are anxious about bath time, but with patience and positive association, you can help your dog become more comfortable. Here are our top tips:

• Start Slow: If your dog is very bath-averse, start by just getting them comfortable being in the tub or wash area without water. Reward with treats and praise.
• Non-Slip Surface: Place a non-slip mat in the tub so your dog feels secure.
• Water Introduction: Use a handheld shower attachment or cup to gently wet your dog, starting from the feet and working up. Avoid spraying directly on the face.
• Warm (Not Hot) Water: Test the water temperature as you would for a baby.
• Positive Reinforcement: Offer treats and constant praise throughout the bath.
• Shield the Eyes and Ears: Use one hand to shield your dog's eyes and ears when washing near the head.
• Speak Calmly: Use a soothing voice throughout the process.
• Quick and Efficient: Have everything ready before starting so the bath can be completed quickly.

For extremely bath-averse dogs, consider using our Waterless Cleansing Wipes for regular maintenance and only do full baths when absolutely necessary.

Remember that patience is key. With consistent positive experiences, many dogs will become more accepting of bath time.

No, our formulas are designed as an all-in-one solution that cleanses and conditions in a single step. Each Dirty Paws formula contains natural conditioning agents that leave your dog's coat soft, silky, and easy to manage after bathing.

Our Shine & Luster Formula has the highest concentration of conditioning ingredients (including argan oil and jojoba oil), making it particularly effective for dogs with long, dry, or easily tangled coats.

However, for specific situations, you might consider additional conditioning:

• Dogs with very long coats prone to matting
• Show dogs that need extra coat manageability
• Breeds with hair (rather than fur) such as Poodles or Bichons

If you do need extra conditioning, we recommend our Leave-In Conditioning Spray which can be applied after bathing to enhance detangling and manageability.

Because our formula is concentrated and dilutable, a 16 oz bottle lasts significantly longer than typical dog shampoos. The exact duration depends on your dog's size, coat type, and bathing frequency.

Approximate number of baths per 16 oz bottle when diluted 1:1:

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 20-25 baths
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 12-15 baths
• Large dogs (51-90 lbs): 8-10 baths
• Extra large dogs (over 90 lbs): 5-8 baths

Additional factors that affect longevity:

• Coat type: Double-coated breeds or dogs with very thick coats require more shampoo
• Dilution ratio: Using a 1:2 dilution for light cleaning can extend the bottle's life
• Application method: Pre-diluting in a separate bottle is more efficient than applying directly

Our ingredients are 100% natural and carefully selected for their specific benefits to your dog's skin and coat. Each formula contains a custom blend of these key ingredients:

• Coconut-derived cleansers: Gentle, natural cleansing without harsh sulfates or detergents
• Aloe vera juice: Soothes and moisturizes skin while promoting healing
• Vegetable glycerin: Natural humectant that draws moisture to the skin
• Colloidal oatmeal: Anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties (higher concentration in Sensitive Formula)
• Argan oil: Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids for coat shine and elasticity (higher concentration in Shine & Luster Formula)
• Jojoba oil: Mimics natural skin oils, adds shine, helps detangle (higher concentration in Shine & Luster Formula)
• Biotin: Strengthens hair follicles and promotes healthy growth (higher concentration in Shedding Control Formula)
• Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids: Nourish follicles and reduce shedding (higher concentration in Shedding Control Formula)
• Natural preservatives: Potassium sorbate and citric acid (both food-grade ingredients)
• Essential oil blends: For natural fragrance and additional skin benefits

For a complete ingredient list for each formula, please visit our Ingredients page.

We are committed to creating the safest, gentlest products possible for your dog. That's why we strictly avoid these potentially harmful ingredients:

• Sulfates (SLS, SLES): Harsh detergents that strip natural oils and can cause irritation and dryness
• Parabens: Synthetic preservatives linked to hormonal disruption and other health concerns
• Phthalates: Often found in synthetic fragrances, linked to various health concerns
• Artificial colors: Unnecessary chemicals that can cause allergic reactions
• Synthetic fragrances: Common allergens that can irritate sensitive dogs
• Isothiazolinones: Preservatives that can cause contact dermatitis
• Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives: Potentially harmful preservatives found in many pet products
• Silicones: Create artificial shine but can build up on the coat over time
• Mineral oil: Petroleum by-product that can clog pores
• Propylene glycol: Petrochemical ingredient that can be a skin irritant

We believe that what's NOT in your dog's shampoo is just as important as what IS in it. Our minimalist approach uses only ingredients that serve a specific beneficial purpose, with nothing artificial or potentially harmful added.

Yes, our Sensitive Formula is specifically designed for dogs with allergies and sensitive skin. All of our formulas are free from common allergens and irritants like sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.

Our Sensitive Formula contains additional soothing ingredients like higher concentrations of colloidal oatmeal and aloe vera, plus chamomile extract to calm irritated skin.

However, as with any skincare product, individual dogs may have unique sensitivities. If your dog has severe allergies or has reacted to grooming products in the past, we recommend:

1. Starting with our Sensitive Formula
2. Performing a patch test on a small area of skin first
3. Monitoring for any adverse reactions for 24 hours

If your dog has been diagnosed with specific allergies by a veterinarian, please review our complete ingredient list on the Ingredients page to ensure none of your dog's known allergens are present.

If you're not sure which formula would be best for your dog's specific skin condition, please contact us for personalized advice.

Unlike most pet shampoos that use synthetic fragrances (often listed simply as "fragrance" on ingredients), our scents come exclusively from natural essential oil blends that are carefully formulated to be gentle and safe for dogs.

Each formula has its own signature scent:

• Sensitive Formula: A light, calming blend of lavender and chamomile essential oils
• Shine & Luster Formula: A refreshing blend of sweet orange and vanilla essential oils
• Shedding Control Formula: An invigorating blend of rosemary and mint essential oils

We use minimal amounts of these essential oils (less than 0.5% of the formula) to ensure they provide a pleasant, subtle scent without overwhelming your dog's sensitive nose or causing skin irritation.

If your dog is particularly sensitive to scents, our Sensitive Formula has the lightest fragrance of the three options.

We offer several shipping options to meet your needs:

• Standard Shipping (Free on orders $35+)
  • $5.99 for orders under $35
  • Delivery in 3-5 business days
  • Available to all 50 US states
• Express Shipping
  • $9.99 flat rate
  • Delivery in 1-2 business days
  • Available to all 50 US states
• International Shipping
  • Canada: $15.99
  • UK & EU: $24.99
  • Australia & New Zealand: $29.99
  • Delivery in 7-14 business days

All orders are processed within 1-2 business days. You'll receive a shipping confirmation email with tracking information once your order ships.

Yes! We offer a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee on all our products. If you're not completely satisfied with your purchase for any reason, we'll make it right.

Our guarantee includes:

• Full refund or replacement if you're not satisfied with the product
• No questions asked returns within 30 days of purchase
• Free return shipping on domestic orders

To initiate a return or request a refund:

1. Email us at returns@dirtypawsshampoo.com with your order number
2. Let us know if you prefer a refund or replacement
3. We'll send you a prepaid return shipping label (for domestic orders)

Once we receive your return, we'll process your refund within 3-5 business days.

We stand behind our products and want you and your dog to be completely happy with your purchase. If you have any issues or questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Yes! Our Subscribe & Save program makes it convenient to keep your dog's favorite shampoo in stock while saving money.

Subscribe & Save benefits:

• 15% off every order
• Free shipping on every delivery
• Flexible delivery schedule (every 1, 2, or 3 months)
• Easy to change, pause, or cancel anytime
• No minimum commitment

To set up a subscription, simply select the "Subscribe & Save" option when adding products to your cart and choose your preferred delivery frequency.

You can manage your subscription through your account dashboard, including:

• Changing delivery frequency
• Adding or removing products
• Updating shipping or payment information
• Skipping a delivery
• Canceling your subscription

Yes, we offer wholesale pricing for pet retailers, groomers, veterinary offices, and other pet care businesses. We also offer bulk ordering options for dog shelters, rescues, and professional breeders.

Wholesale Program Features:

• Competitive wholesale pricing
• Low minimum order quantity (just 12 units)
• Attractive in-store display materials
• Sample packs for customer testing
• Customizable marketing materials
• Dedicated wholesale account manager

To learn more about our wholesale program or to apply for a wholesale account, please visit our Wholesale page or email wholesale@dirtypawsshampoo.com.

Supporting animal welfare is a core part of our mission at Dirty Paws. We believe in giving back to help dogs in need.

Our Commitment:

• We donate 5% of all profits to animal rescue organizations
• Our quarterly "Rescue Spotlight" program provides direct product donations and fundraising support to a featured shelter
• We offer special pricing for animal shelters and rescue organizations
• Our team regularly volunteers at local shelters for grooming days
• We sponsor adoption events and cover adoption fees for senior dogs

Our founder's rescue dog, Max, was the inspiration for starting Dirty Paws, so helping shelter dogs find loving homes is deeply personal to us.

To learn more about our rescue partners or to nominate a rescue organization for our spotlight program, please visit our Giving Back page.

Yes, sustainability is a core value at Dirty Paws. We're committed to minimizing our environmental impact in every aspect of our business.

Our Eco-Friendly Practices:

• Packaging: Our bottles are made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic and are fully recyclable
• Shipping Materials: We use biodegradable packing peanuts, recycled cardboard, and paper tape
• Ingredients: We source from sustainable suppliers and avoid palm oil and other environmentally problematic ingredients
• Carbon Offset: We offset our carbon footprint through tree planting initiatives
• Production: Our manufacturing facility runs on 100% renewable energy
• Concentrated Formula: By selling a concentrated product that requires dilution, we reduce plastic, water, and transportation-related emissions

We're constantly working to improve our environmental practices. Our next sustainability goal is transitioning to refillable bottles through a mail-back program, which we plan to launch in late 2025.

For more details on our environmental commitment, please visit our Sustainability page.

Our formulas are specifically designed for dogs, and while the ingredients are gentle and natural, we don't officially recommend using them on other animals without consulting your veterinarian first.

Important considerations:

• Cats: Cats have a different skin pH than dogs, and they're much more sensitive to essential oils. Some essential oils that are safe for dogs can be problematic for cats. We're developing a cat-specific formula that will be available in the future.
• Horses: While many of our ingredients are found in equine products, our formula isn't designed for the unique needs of horse coats and skin.
• Small Animals: We don't recommend using our products on small mammals like rabbits, guinea pigs, or ferrets, as they have very specific grooming needs.

If you're looking for recommendations for other pets, please contact us, and we'd be happy to suggest appropriate products from trusted brands that we recommend for non-canine animals.