The 5 Best Dog Shampoos and Conditioners for Cockapoos in 2024

Tim Seidler

Tim Seidler – Head of Pets

with support from the Pawster Research Team


At Pawster, we are committed to presenting the most accurate and up-to-date information to assist you in your pet care journey. When appropriate, we consult licensed and practicing veterinarians to fact-check our professionally written articles.

The cockapoo was the first breed of designer, hybrid dogs, and although these dogs shed less than most breeds, the cockapoo requires frequent brushing and grooming maintenance. Are you looking for the best dog shampoos for cockapoos? You’ve come to the right place.

Choosing the wrong shampoo and conditioner for your dog can at best, make their coat look dry and dull. At worst, inferior, incorrect formulas can irritate your dog’s skin and make bath time a stressful and unpleasant ordeal for both you and your furry companion.

Your cockapoo has a fast-growing, dense coat of fur that can be wavy, or straight. He might have long or short hair. Since he is a hybrid dog, he won’t “breed true,” and you can end up with two adult cockapoos with very different coat looks, textures, and grooming needs. So, how can you choose the best shampoo for your cockapoo in 2024? We’ll offer a selection of high-quality shampoos later in the article, and also give you a few tips and tricks for how to bathe and care for your cockapoo.

What is the Best Shampoo for Cockapoos?

What are the different types of cockapoo shampoos?

Just like humans have different grooming, bathing, and shampoo needs, so does your cockapoo. Every dog breed has different skin and coat care requirements, but some dogs may have more sensitive needs than others. When choosing the right dog shampoo for cockapoos, consider your particular pet’s needs. Does he have dandruff? There’s a dog shampoo for that. Prone to fungal infections? You can purchase an antifungal shampoo formula that will fight yeast and soothe your dog’s inflamed skin. Let’s check out the different types of dog shampoos below.

Sensitive Skin

Dogs can have sensitive skin just like humans. If your dog scratches a lot after a bath, the shampoo may be too drying for his skin. Plus, some shampoos use soaps that don’t rinse out very well, and left-behind soap residue can cause skin irritation. If you live in a dry climate or deal with harsh, forced-air heat, your dog can suffer from sensitive, dry skin. Fortunately, oatmeal-based shampoos for cockapoos and shampoos that use coconut oil can be soothing for dogs with these issues.

Anti-fungal Shampoos and Conditioners

Yeast bacteria naturally grows on a dog’s skin. When yeast levels are kept at normal levels, their presence helps maintain the dog’s pH balance. However, yeast bacteria are opportunistic, and if given a chance, yeast will grow. Signs of yeast infections in dogs include:

  • Excessive scratching
  • Rubbing against hard surfaces
  • Frequently chewing and licking their paws

If your cockapoo is displaying these symptoms, take the dog to the vet to rule out anything more dangerous than a yeast infection. Heat and damp, humid conditions can cause yeast to overgrow. If your dog has been sick, their immune system can be lower, and yeast can seize the opportunity to multiply. You can use antifungal shampoos to keep fungus and bacteria in check.

Shedding Control

It’s a myth that dog breeds, like the cockapoo, don’t shed. All dogs shed to some extent; it’s just that the cockapoo sheds less frequently than most dogs. Also, the fur that does fall out usually stays in the coat, which is one of the reasons why the cockapoo dog needs brushing more frequently than other dogs. If your cockapoo is shedding a lot, they might have an underlying health problem that needs ruling out by the vet.

A cockapoo can have more of a poodle coat, or their coat can resemble the cocker part of their heritage. Dogs with a poodle-like coat will typically shed less than dogs with a coat more like a cocker spaniel.

Related: Our In-Depth Guide to The Best Cockapoo Foods

Also, cockapoos are a breed that molts when they reach the adult stage. Around eight months old, your cockapoo puppy will begin to lose her puppy fur and grow a mature, adult coat. But unfortunately, this means your carpets, sofas, and black clothing are going to take a beating. To cut down on the shedding during this awkward adolescent phase, you can brush your dog once or twice daily to catch any stray hair before it ends up on your furniture. There are also shedding control shampoo formulas you can purchase that can minimize excess shedding. But rest assured, this is a normal stage of growth for cockapoos.

Dandruff Control

Yes, dog dandruff is a thing. Dandruff in dogs looks similar to human dandruff and is usually caused by dry skin. But dandruff can be a symptom of something more serious. Parasites and poor-quality kibble can dry out the dog’s skin, causing dandruff, and other skin problems. Always get your dog checked by a vet if she has dandruff.

If dry conditions are causing your dog’s dandruff, you can bathe her with specially-formulated dandruff shampoos for dogs. Never use dandruff shampoo for humans on your dog.

Deodorizing

Some dogs smell more than others. You might think that bathing your cockapoo puppy frequently will keep her smelling good for longer, but that’s not necessarily a good idea. Frequent bathing can dry out the dog’s skin and cause all kinds of irritation and inflammation.

Dog’s skin naturally secretes moisturizing oils that keep the coat healthy. But these oils can stink. There are safe, deodorizing dog shampoos that you can use to keep your cockapoo smelling clean between washings.

Top 5 Tips for Keeping Your Cockapoo’s Coat Clean and Healthy

  1. Feed your cockapoo healthy, high-quality kibble.
Feeding your dog food free of sugars and meat byproducts can do wonders for the appearance and texture of their coat. When choosing a dog food, pick one that lists proteins as the top ingredients. You want to look for things like chicken, turkey, and salmon. Sugar and fructose, beaks and grains are fillers that won’t do much to give your dog a nutritious diet.
  1. Brush your dog.

Brushing not only helps create a strong bond between you and your dog, but it will also keep their fur looking and feeling healthy. Brushing removes excess hair and prevents mats and tangles from forming. For puppies with long hair, brush four to five times per day, or once per week for short haired cockapoo puppies. For puppies who are growing their adult coat, they will need to be brushed at least once per day as they molt. Adult dogs need to be cleaned about once a week.

  1. Remove mats as soon as they form.

Mats can twist and become painful, or cause skin irritation and infections. Use thinning scissors to cut out any mats that can’t be worked out with a brush. Mats usually form around the collar area, the armpits, and the ears.

  1. Use the right tools for grooming.

For cockapoos, you’ll need a slicker brush, brush, comb, thinning scissors, and nail clippers.

  1. Use the right shampoo for your dog.

When choosing a shampoo for your cockapoo, you need to use one that’s going to work for their coat and their particular needs. For example, if your dog is prone to fungus infections, it’s best to choose a shampoo formula that can keep yeast from growing out of control.

Our Top Recommended Cockapoo Shampoo Brands

 

Our number one cockapoo dog shampoo pick for 2024 is…

Buddy Wash Original Lavender and Mint Dog Shampoo and Conditioner

Key Benefits:

  • The bottle comes in a convenient, two-in-one formula.
  • This shampoo is coconut-oil based, so it will leave your dog’s skin feeling moisturized.
  • The formula will rinse out easily from the cockapoo’s long, thick fur.
  • The formula also includes whey protein, which is a natural deodorizer for dogs that are prone to odors.

The cockapoo has a dense coat that can vary in length and texture. No matter if your cockapoo has a coat resembling a poodle or a cocker spaniel, it can be hard to rinse out the soap thoroughly. Leaving behind soap residues can irritate your dog’s skin and make their fur look dull and lifeless. This shampoo formula will lather well, but it’s also easy to rinse out of the dog’s coat.

What are the pros and cons of using Buddy Wash Original Lavender and Mint Dog Shampoo and Conditioner?

Pros: Moisturizing, easy-to-rinse formula that will leave your dog smelling great.

Cons: This is not a tear-free shampoo, and it should not be used on puppies.

The Runner-Up:

If Buddy Wash Original is not the right type of soap for your dog, our second place for best dog shampoo for cockapoos is…

4-legger Organic, Hypo-allergenic, Lemongrass, and Aloe Shampoo

Key Benefits:

  • The essential oil blend won’t strip your dog’s fur or skin of natural oils.
  • The formula is free from parabens and synthetic chemicals that can dull your cockapoos soft and silky coat.
  • Lemongrass has antibacterial and antifungal properties which can keep yeast at-bay.
  • This dog shampoo is ideal for cockapoos who are prone to itchy, irritating yeast and other fungal infections. The shampoo is cruelty-free and also eco-friendly, and comprised of non-GMO ingredients. The shampoo is safe for humans and non-toxic.

What are the pros and cons of the 4-legger shampoo for cockapoos?

Pros: 4-leggers lemongrass and aloe shampoo is exceptionally gentle for dry, sensitive skin and cockapoos suffering from fur loss or yeast infections. The formula is also easy to rinse and free of all kinds of irritants that you’d find in most inferior brands. The shampoo is also safe to use on puppies.

Cons: This isn’t tear-free either and can sting your dog’s eyes if you aren’t careful. Use a different, tear-free shampoo to wash your dog’s face.

5 Tips on Bathing Your Cockapoo

  1. Brush your dog before he gets wet. It will be easier to remove debris from his coat, untangle knots, and also see where any mats are forming.
  2. Make sure the water is lukewarm. What seems warm to you might be hot and uncomfortable for your dog.
  3. Invest in a shower hose. This will make it easier to rinse all of the soap from your dog.
  4. Don’t rub the product into the coat, or rub the dog dry. This can create mats and tangles. Instead, apply the product in one direction, and pat the dog dry.
  5. Always rinse his coat from front to back to prevent water from getting into his eyes and ears.

What are a few other top-rated shampoos and conditioners for cockapoos?

If you aren’t keen on either 4-legger or Buddy Wash Original, check out these other best-smelling shampoos for cockapoos.

FAQ for Bathing a Cockapoo

  • How often do I need to bathe my cockapoo?

Cockapoos usually don’t need to be bathed as often as other dog breeds. If bath time is stressful for your dog, try to limit baths to when he gets really smelly or dirty. Usually, a cockapoo only needs bathing about every two to three months. However, he will need brushing frequently. Two to three times a week is good for an adult cockapoo.

  • Can I use human shampoo or conditioner on a dog?

No, it’s not a good idea to bathe your cockapoo with human soaps, shampoos, or conditioners. They are too harsh and drying for his skin and coat.

  • How should I trim any mats I find in my cockapoo’s coat?

Mats are a pretty regular occurrence, and you shouldn’t feel bad if your cockapoo has mats. The key is to get rid of them before they become a problem. If you can’t work out the mats with a comb, you might want to trim them. If you find a mat and the dog is due for a bath, that’s good. Trimming mats with round-tip scissors is easier when the hair is wet.

  • My eight-month-old cockapoo’s coat looks weird. Is she sick?

Chances are, probably not. It’s normal for cockapoos, around eight months old, to shed their puppy coat. If you’re concerned about shedding, brush the dog outside at least once, sometimes twice per day to get rid of the excess fur during the molt.

  • What’s the most effective, safe way to wash my cockapoo’s face?

Getting soap in the dog’s eye can be painful and make bath time a stressful ordeal. Sometimes, your dog’s furry face will get dirty from eating or snuffling around in the dirt, and he will need his face washed. Usually, a washcloth soaked in warm water will do the trick, but if your dog needs a more substantial cleaning, apply tear-free dog shampoo with an applicator bottle to problem areas on the dog’s face. Use a toothbrush to work up a lather, then wipe and rinse off the soap residue with another soaked washcloth.

  • My cockapoo has a coat like a cocker spaniel. How should I dry him after a bath?

After bath time, pat your dog’s coat, so it is damp, and not soaking. If he has fur like a cocker spaniel, his coat will look best if you let him air dry. Dogs with more poodle-like fur look fluffier when you blow dry their coat. Always use a blow dryer that’s cool enough and safe for dogs.

Always choose a cockapoo shampoo that is safe for dogs and is formulated with high-quality ingredients. The right bath time products can go a long way to keeping your dog looking, smelling, and feeling his canine best.

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