5 DIY Dog Shampoos With Coconut Oil You Can Make Today! (With Pictures)

Are you looking for a natural, gentle way to keep your dog clean and moisturized? Coconut oil may be the solution! This versatile ingredient can work wonders in homemade dog shampoo. Today, I‘m excited to share with you seven easy DIY coconut oil shampoo recipes that will leave your pup‘s coat soft, shiny, and smelling fresh.

Why Use Coconut Oil in Dog Shampoo?
Coconut oil is a powerhouse when it comes to skincare, for humans and dogs alike. Here‘s why it‘s a star ingredient in homemade dog shampoo:

1. Moisturizing: Coconut oil is extremely hydrating and can help soothe dry, itchy, or irritated skin. Its medium-chain fatty acids can penetrate the skin and hair for deep conditioning.

2. Gentle cleansing: Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has cleansing properties that are mild enough for sensitive skin. It can help wash away dirt and grime without stripping natural oils.

3. Anti-inflammatory: Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties that may help with skin issues like hot spots, allergies, or minor infections.

4. Promotes a healthy coat: The fatty acids in coconut oil can nourish hair follicles and add shine to your dog‘s coat. Regular use may reduce shedding and dandruff.

Plus, making your own dog shampoo allows you to customize the ingredients to your dog‘s needs, avoid harsh chemicals found in some commercial shampoos, and save money in the long run. What‘s not to love?

7 DIY Dog Shampoo Recipes with Coconut Oil
Ready to get started? Here are seven simple recipes for coconut oil dog shampoo, each with its own unique benefits. Feel free to customize with your favorite essential oils (just make sure they‘re safe for dogs first).

1. Basic Moisturizing Shampoo
   Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup liquid castile soap
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 cup distilled water
• 2-3 drops lavender essential oil (optional)

Instructions: In a bottle or jar, mix the castile soap and coconut oil until combined. Gradually add the distilled water and essential oil (if using) and shake well before each use. This basic recipe is great for most coat types and will leave your dog soft and moisturized.

2. Sensitive Skin Soothing Shampoo
   Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup aloe vera gel
• 1/4 cup distilled water
• 1/4 cup liquid castile soap
• 1 tsp vitamin E oil
• 2-3 drops frankincense essential oil (optional)

Instructions: Combine the coconut oil, aloe vera gel, water, and castile soap in a bottle or jar. Mix in the vitamin E oil and essential oil, if using. Shake well before use. This soothing blend is perfect for dogs with sensitive skin, allergies, or inflammation. The aloe and vitamin E help calm irritation while the coconut oil moisturizes.

3. Flea & Tick Repellent Shampoo
   Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup castile soap
• 1/2 cup distilled water
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 5 drops peppermint essential oil
• 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 5 drops cedarwood essential oil

Instructions: Mix all ingredients in a bottle or jar and shake well before each use. The coconut oil and apple cider vinegar help repel fleas and ticks, while the essential oils provide extra protection (just be careful to avoid your dog‘s face and eyes when shampooing). Use this recipe regularly during flea/tick season for best results.

4. Deodorizing Shampoo for Smelly Dogs
   Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup finely ground oatmeal
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 10 drops lavender or lemongrass essential oil

Instructions: In a bowl, whisk together the baking soda, cornstarch, and oatmeal. Drizzle in the melted coconut oil and essential oil and mix until crumbly. Store in an airtight container. To use, sprinkle liberally over your dog‘s coat, massage in, and then brush out. This waterless shampoo is perfect for deodorizing between baths. The baking soda and coconut oil help neutralize odors while the oatmeal soothes skin.

5. 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner
   Ingredients:

• 1 can coconut milk
• 1/3 cup liquid castile soap
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 tsp vegetable glycerin
• 2-3 drops sweet orange essential oil (optional)

Instructions: In a blender, combine the coconut milk, castile soap, coconut oil, glycerin, and essential oil (if using). Blend on low speed until mixed. Pour into a bottle or jar and shake before each use. This creamy formula combines the cleansing power of castile soap with the deep conditioning of coconut milk and oil. The vegetable glycerin adds even more moisture for a soft, shiny coat.

6. Whitening Shampoo for Light-Colored Dogs
   Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup liquid dish soap (clear)
• 1 tsp optical brightener (found in laundry boosters)

Instructions: In a bowl, whisk together the coconut oil, hydrogen peroxide, and cornstarch until smooth. Mix in the dish soap and optical brightener. Pour into a bottle or jar and shake well before each use. This whitening shampoo recipe gently bleaches and brightens light-colored coats. The hydrogen peroxide and optical brighteners remove stains and yellowing, while the coconut oil and cornstarch moisturize and add body. Just be sure to avoid your dog‘s eyes when shampooing.

7. Dry Shampoo for In-Between Baths
   Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup finely ground oatmeal
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 5 drops peppermint or lavender essential oil (optional)

Instructions: Mix the cornstarch, oatmeal, and baking soda in a bowl. Stir in the melted coconut oil and essential oil until crumbly. Store in a shaker bottle or jar with holes poked in the lid. To use, sprinkle over your dog‘s coat, massage in with your fingers, let sit for 5 minutes, then thoroughly brush out. This dry shampoo is perfect for freshening up your pup between regular baths. The cornstarch and baking soda absorb excess oils, the oatmeal soothes skin, and the coconut oil conditions the coat.

Tips for Using Homemade Dog Shampoo
Now that you have some coconut oil shampoo recipes to try, here are a few tips to get the most out of your homemade creations:

1. Shake well before each use, as the ingredients may separate over time.

2. Wet your dog‘s coat thoroughly with warm water before shampooing. Avoid getting water or shampoo in their eyes, ears, or mouth.

3. Apply a small amount of shampoo to your hand and work into a lather. Massage gently all over your dog‘s body, starting at the neck and working your way back. Pay extra attention to muddy paws, the tummy area, and the tail.

4. Rinse, rinse, rinse! Any leftover shampoo can irritate your dog‘s skin, so make sure to rinse thoroughly with clean water until the water runs clear.

5. Towel dry or let your pup air dry. You can also use a blow dryer on the cool setting, but most dogs prefer to air dry (and then have a good shake to get rid of excess water).

6. Brush out your dog‘s coat to remove any tangles and distribute natural oils for a shiny finish.

As for how often to bathe your dog with coconut oil shampoo, it depends on the individual. Some dogs only need a bath every few months, while others may need one every few weeks (especially if they like to roll in smelly things!). In general, aim to bathe your dog whenever they start to look or smell dirty, but don‘t overdo it, as too much bathing can strip the natural oils from their skin and cause dryness or irritation.

Before using a new shampoo on your dog, it‘s always a good idea to do a patch test first to check for sensitivities or allergies. Apply a small amount of diluted shampoo to a small area of skin and watch for any redness, itching, or other adverse reactions over the next 24-48 hours. If everything looks good, you‘re ready to suds up!

Conclusion
Coconut oil is a wonderfully versatile ingredient that can take your dog‘s bathtime routine to the next level. Whether you‘re looking to soothe sensitive skin, repel pests, or just keep your pup smelling fresh and clean, there‘s a coconut oil shampoo recipe out there for you.

Making your own dog shampoo is easy, affordable, and allows you to tailor the ingredients to your dog‘s specific needs. Plus, it‘s a fun way to bond with your furry friend and show them some extra love.

So go ahead and give one of these recipes a try – your dog will thank you with plenty of tail wags and kisses! Just remember to use your homemade shampoo as part of a regular grooming routine, along with brushing, trimming nails, and cleaning ears, to keep your pup looking and feeling their best.

Happy shampooing!