Despite having short hair and small bodies, Chihuahuas still need proper grooming. This is to keep them safe against skin problems such as dermatitis, yeast infection, hot spots, and so on. So to ensure that your Chi will have a clean and smooth coat, you must use the best shampoo for short hair Chihuahua on its next bath.
It’s important to remember that human shampoo products are unsafe for dogs, especially small breeds like Chihuahuas. Some chemicals in this formula are toxic to animals and can even damage their skin.
Meanwhile, shampoo products made specifically for dogs are gentle and suitable for their skin’s pH. It’s also formulated with ingredients that will help ease infections and irritations.
If you’re looking for one that suits a short-haired Chihuahua, our five picks below are great options to consider.
| DOG SHAMPOO | BRAND | EXPERT RATING | CHECK PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Our Top Pick! WAHL Dry Skin & Itch Dog Shampoo |  | Check Price |
 | Mighty Petz Oatmeal Dog Shampoo | | Check Price |
 | Natural Dog Company Itchy Dog Shampoo |  | Check Price |
 | Healthy Breeds Chihuahua Smelly Dog Shampoo | | Check Price |
 | Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog Shampoo | | Check Price |
Do short-haired Chihuahuas still need baths?
Even though they have short hair, Chihuahuas still need regular baths. Depending on your Chi’s lifestyle, it may need frequent baths weekly or something less demanding every 6 weeks. It all depends on how dirty your pet gets and if it has lingering skin conditions that require medicated baths.
Overall, short-haired Chis don’t require a lot of grooming. If you bathe and brush them regularly, these doggos would remain healthy and clean.
Chihuahuas are fairly easy to maintain as long as you keep up with their grooming needs. Also, you should use the right products to ensure that your doggo won’t suffer from irritations.
Best Shampoo For Short Hair Chihuahua – Top 5 Picks!
OUR #1 CHOICE
OUR TOP PICK: WAHL Dry Skin & Itch Dog Shampoo
Product Name: OUWAHL Dry Skin & Itch Dog Shampoo
Product Description: If you’re looking for the best shampoo for short hair Chihuahua, you’ll never go wrong with the WAHL Dry Skin & Itch Dog Shampoo. This is an oatmeal formula mixed with lime verbena and coconut for both a soothing and moisturizing effect. This shampoo is pH-balanced and free from paraben, alcohol, and PEG-80. It’s perfect for Chihuahuas with sensitive skin and short hair that gets easily penetrated by allergens. Moreover, this shampoo lathers well, so a small amount goes a long way for an equally tiny breed like Chihuahuas. With this, the 24-ounce bottle will last many baths, which makes it well worth the purchase.
Offer price: $$$
Availability: InStock
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Ingredients
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Summary
Aside from that, this WAHL shampoo works well for itchy and dry skin. So if your Chi is suffering from scaly and irritated skin, this soothing bath might be the answer. It’s also helpful in reducing stink in dogs, especially those who are always exposed to outdoor elements.
Also, I like that this dog shampoo doesn’t have a strong perfume smell. It has a nice natural whiff, which isn’t overwhelming for Chihuahuas.
However, it’s a bit thin in consistency, so be careful when pressing the bottle as too much may squirt out. And since the scent is mild, it doesn’t last long, which some pet owners find to be a negative thing. But other than that, I can’t see any deal-breaker for this dog shampoo.
Pros
Made with all-natural ingredients
Mild smell that doesn’t irritate a dog’s nose
Free from alcohol, paraben, and harsh chemicals
It’s a concentrate, so a small amount goes a long way.
It helps ease itching and dry skin.
Cons
The consistency of this shampoo is a bit runny.
The scent doesn’t last long (which isn’t really a big deal).
RUNNERS-UP
Mighty Petz Oatmeal Dog Shampoo
The Mighty Petz Oatmeal Dog Shampoo will give your short-haired Chihuahua a clean and smooth coat. This is a formula that works both as a shampoo and a conditioner, so you only have to purchase one product.
Moreover, this shampoo is formulated with oatmeal and aloe vera. It delivers both soothing and moisturizing benefits without the use of harsh chemicals. This shampoo is also pH-balanced and guaranteed to be cruelty-free.
Aside from that, the Mighty Petz has coconut-based cleansers, organic lavender for fragrance, baking soda, and mineral salts. All of the ingredients are natural and don’t use artificial coloring.
Overall, this shampoo is perfect for Chihuahuas with allergy-prone skin. It also helps reduce itching, dryness, and sensitivity of your dog’s skin.
Aside from cleaning your dog’s coat, this shampoo is also packed with Vitamins A, B, C, and E. This will help restore the health of your Chihuahua’s coat, so it will become shiny and dense.
For added peace of mind, this dog shampoo is free from alcohol and paraben. It’s also cruelty-free and produces good foam for a satisfying bath.
Mighty Petz also provides a satisfaction guarantee for this shampoo. If you’re not happy with the results, you can contact them to receive a refund – that simple.
When it comes to downsides, I wish that they would use a pull-off seal to make it easier to squeeze all the product out. Also, the scent is so mild that your Chi will become scentless after the bath. While it’s a downside for some, I find it advantageous if you have a sensitive Chihuahua.
Natural Dog Company Itchy Dog Shampoo
Is your short-haired Chihuahua always getting itchy skin? If so, you should consider the Natural Dog Company Itchy Dog Shampoo. This is formulated with lavender oil, Aloe vera, jojoba oil, kelp powder, and eucalyptus oil. It delivers natural cleaning while leaving a nice scent on your Chihuahua’s coat.
This formulation helps reduce itchiness and dryness while restoring your Chi’s coat health. It hydrates and soothes at the same time. And if your Chi suffered from bug bites and rashes, this shampoo can help reduce the irritation.
I also like that this shampoo is handcrafted in small batches, so quality is always guaranteed. It’s also vet-approved for your peace of mind.
This is formulated with dog allergies in mind. Although it’s more expensive than other options on this list, your Chihuahua will surely enjoy relief from skin problems. It’s also a soothing maintenance shampoo that can be used regularly.
However, the shampoo gets clumpy when poured on the hands. It is not really a deal-breaker for me, but it’s surely an issue for meticulous Chihuahua owners.
Also, the smell of this shampoo is plain, so don’t expect your doggo to smell like a bed of roses. But for a sensitive Chis, the minimal scent is actually an advantage. After all, the odor is all-natural and doesn’t use irritating perfumes.
Healthy Breeds Chihuahua Smelly Dog Shampoo
Healthy Breeds Chihuahua Smelly Dog Shampoo is made specifically for your feisty dog. It’s formulated with coat conditioners and baking soda to help keep your Chi’s coat clean, smooth, and odor-free in every wash.
Aside from that, this is made with a natural shampoo base, wheat protein, oat protein, and Aloe leaf juice extracts. All of these will help soothe and calm a Chihuahua’s skin suffering from itchiness and irritations.
This is a pH-balanced formula, which suits even the most sensitive Chis. It’s also hypoallergenic for your peace of mind.
Also, this shampoo is made in the USA, so you’re assured of the quality since it’s federally regulated. Healthy Breeds also offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee in every purchase of their dog shampoo.
I also like how effective this is in removing nasty odors from dogs. The shampoo lathers well, so the cleaning power is soaked well on your Chihuahua’s body.
Overall, this dog shampoo does the job and it also comes with a mild scent. It has all the basics you’d want from a grooming product.
As for the downsides, I noticed that you have to use a lot of product to remove intense smells from your dog’s coat. Other than that, it does the job, so this is just a small niggle in my opinion.
Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog Shampoo
My last pick for this roundup is the Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog Shampoo. It’s made with colloidal oatmeal and organic aloe vera to deliver soothing effects on your Chihuahua’s coat. This is also blended with Vitamins A, B, C, D, and E to restore your pet’s coat health.
Moreover, this canine shampoo is free from harsh soaps. It’s also pH-balanced to prevent irritations on your Chihuahua’s skin. Aside from that, this will not wash off flea treatments, which is a plus point if your Chi is currently being treated for the said parasite.
Aside from that, the Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Dog Shampoo doesn’t have synthetic dyes, gluten, paraben, phthalates, and sulfates. It’s also cruelty-free, so you know that your Chihuahua is in good hands.
In case you’re not happy with the results, Earthbath provides a 100% money-back guarantee. They will give your money back if you’re not satisfied with their product. For me, that’s the best guarantee you can ever get from a pet brand.
Overall, this shampoo does the job, but there are a few things I want to mention. First, this shampoo will not leave any scent on your Chi’s coat. It cleans, but don’t expect your pet to smell like roses.
Also, this isn’t tearless as most of the options reviewed here. So if you’re bathing your Chi, avoid getting the suds on its face.
How to choose the best shampoo for short hair Chihuahua
There are many dog shampoo products on the market, but not all of them are suitable for Chihuahuas. So if you’re looking for one to use on your Chi, it’s best to consider the following aspects first:
1. Consider your Chihuahua’s coat
First, you have to consider your Chihuahua’s skin and coat condition. For Chi dogs with lingering skin problems, it might be better to consult the veterinarian first before purchasing a shampoo. In most cases, Chihuahuas with a bad case of skin problems will need a specialized or medicated shampoo from the vet.
Meanwhile, you should also consider your dog’s coat color. Chihuahuas that are dominantly white in color require a shampoo that doesn’t have artificial coloring. Also, shampoos for white dogs are usually made to reduce staining.
When in doubt, your dog’s vet is still the best person to consult. While it costs a fee, it’s just a small sacrifice for your pet’s health.
2. Choose the type
Next, you should choose the shampoo type that your Chihuahua needs. The following are the common options for dog owners:
Regular shampoo
Regular dog shampoo is used for the maintenance of an already healthy coat. It’s made of gentle cleansers that help remove superficial dirt and odor from a Chihuahua’s body.
Overall, regular dog shampoos are easy to find in every pet store. It’s also cheaper and available in a variety of odors and formulations.
Medicated shampoo
Medicated shampoos, on the other hand, are intended for Chihuahuas suffering from skin problems. It’s infused with medications and antibiotics to treat the infection.
While medicated dog shampoos can be purchased over the counter, you should be particular about what medication is added to them. Make sure that the one you’re buying is made to address the skin problems of your Chi.
Also, you should consult your dog’s vet first before buying a medicated shampoo. This is much so if your Chihuahua is still a puppy.
Flea and tick shampoo
Flea and tick shampoo for dogs are also medicated, but specifically for eradicating skin parasites. This must be used properly to avoid any adverse reactions on the part of your pet.
Also, you should avoid using tick or flea shampoos for Chihuahuas that are under eight weeks old. And for toy and teacup breeds, you must consult the vet first as these shampoo products have a strong formulation.
Dry shampoo
Dry dog shampoo is called as such because it doesn’t require rinsing. It’s applied to a Chihuahua’s coat, massaged into its fur, and then wiped with a clean towel.
As much as dry shampoo cleans your dog, you shouldn’t consider it a regular fixture in its grooming process. It should only be used twice in a row then your Chi will need a full bath. Otherwise, your doggo will form matting and skin irritations as the product accumulates on its coat.
Puppy shampoo
You can also find shampoo products made specifically for puppies. It has a gentler formula safe for small and young doggos. Also, puppy shampoo products are often tearless, so they won’t sting the eyes of your little doggo in case the suds got in its face.
Nevertheless, most regular dog shampoo products are usually safe for puppies that are 8 weeks old or older.
3. Check the ingredients
The ingredient of the Chihuahua shampoo is a make-or-break part. Always read the label and research each ingredient on the list.
Ideally, you’d want an all-natural dog shampoo. Look for ingredients like oatmeal, Aloe vera, essential oils, and natural extracts. All of these are moisturizing and soothing, not to mention that it also leaves a nice scent on your pet’s coat.
4. Mind the scent
Speaking of scent, you must avoid dog shampoo products with excessive perfume odors. These scents are not necessary and will just irritate your Chihuahua.
If you want a shampoo that leaves a mild odor on your pet’s coat, opt for one with natural scents. Essential oils and natural extracts are often good options.
Overall, avoid strongly scented grooming products for your Chihuahua. After all, your dog will not appreciate the flowery odors.
5. Check the brand
While the brand isn’t the only determinant of a shampoo’s quality, it still says a lot about the formulation. Established brands often adhere to strict protocols to ensure the safety of their products.
Brands like WAHL and Earthbath are widely known for their dog grooming products. Thousands of pet owners have tested their products and can attest to their quality.
Nevertheless, it’s not a bad thing to try lesser-known names. Just make sure that you read their ingredients to ensure that the shampoo is safe for your Chihuahua.
6. Decide about the price
Lastly, you should decide how much you’re planning to spend on your Chihuahua’s shampoo. There are many affordable options in the market, but make sure that the one you’re purchasing has safe ingredients.
Beware of very cheap formulas with no proper labeling. These dog shampoo products are often unregulated and untested, which will pose a direct threat to your Chihuahua’s health.
How to bathe your Chihuahua properly
Bathing a Chihuahua can be challenging because this breed isn’t really a fan of water. Also, Chis are very sensitive and may react aggressively when they get suds or water in their face.
To help make your Chihuahua’s next bath more worthwhile, you should keep the following points in mind:
1. Let your Chihuahua relax first
Before you start grooming, make sure that your Chihuahua is relaxed. It will help to give your Chi a short playtime or exercise to drain its energy.
If this doesn’t help, you can consult your dog’s veterinarian for the possible use of mild sedatives. This can be in the form of treats, so it will be easier to give to your pet.
2. Trim the claws
Next, you should trim your Chihuahua’s claws. You wouldn’t want to have those sharp nails digging into your skin as your Chi panics in the middle of the bath session.
Be careful in trimming your dog’s nails to prevent cutting the quick. It’s a blood vessel right where your Chihuahua’s nails and paw meet.
3. Brush your dog’s coat first
After that, you should brush your Chihuahua’s coat first. While short-haired Chis won’t have intense tangles, it’s still important to brush them to remove as much dirt as possible.
Brushing before a bath will also let you check your dog’s skin for any possible signs of infection. It’s also a good way to prepare your Chi for the upcoming bath.
4. Allow your Chihuahua to sniff the grooming supplies
As you brush your Chihuahua, let it sniff around. Dogs use their nose to explore and it will help them calm down by having their sense of smell get accustomed to various odors.
This is also a good way to desensitize your Chihuahua to the different scents, sounds, and sensations that bath time brings.
5. Start by pouring water using your hands
You can start dousing your Chihuahua’s body with water by pouring it with your hands. Do it as slowly as possible, so you won’t startle or scare your dog.
Mild shaking is normal for Chihuahuas, especially during baths. Some Chis will also vocalize, which is also normal since they aren’t fond of water.
6. Use lukewarm water
Since Chihuahuas are small, they are sensitive to extreme temperatures. You should only use lukewarm water on every bath to prevent hypothermia. Take note that the water shouldn’t be too cold or too warm.
7. Avoid the facial area
When bathing your Chihuahua, never pour water on its face. Also, make sure that the shampoo suds won’t get into their eyes.
If shampoo accidentally got into your Chihuahua’s eyes, rinse it right away. If your dog sustained eye irritation due to the shampoo, you should bring it to the vet for the proper solution.
8. Be gentle in handling your Chihuahua’s body
Always watch out for how you handle your Chihuahua during the bath. Be gentle with the dog’s tiny body, so your dog won’t associate bathing with a negative experience.
Be patient and never use violence if your Chihuahua misbehaves during the bath.
9. Keep the bath short
Dogs have short attention spans and they will get bored by a long bath. Always keep your Chihuahua’s bath at a maximum of 10 to 15 minutes. Keep it fast without compromising how well you clean your pet’s body.
10. Shower with treats
Lastly, shower your Chihuahua with treats during and after the bath. This will let your Chi associate bath times with a positive and rewarding experience. It’s also a good way to make your dog cooperate and get used to the sensation of grooming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you use baby shampoos on Chihuahua?
A: While some pet owners swear by baby shampoos on their Chihuahuas, it’s something we don’t recommend. As much as baby shampoo products are gentle, it’s still not made for dogs. The ingredients can still irritate a small Chihuahua’s skin. This is why you should only use grooming products that are intended for dogs.
Q: How do I stop my Chihuahua from smelling?
A: Regular baths will help prevent bad odors from forming on your Chihuahua’s body. It’s also the best way to remove dirt from your dog’s fur, so it won’t accumulate and cause matting, itching, and skin problems. Overall, short-haired Chis can go by without a bath for one to two months. Nevertheless, it also depends on how dirty your doggo gets.
Q: Why does my Chihuahua always stink?
A: Chihuahuas stink because they have dirty fur. Allergies, skin problems, and infections can also be possible culprits of this problem. Most of these problems can be prevented using the right shampoo and performing proper grooming steps.
Q: Can I use shampoo on my Chihuahua’s face?
A: It’s not advisable to wash your Chihuahua’s face directly as this can irritate the eyes and nose. Also, Chis are pretty sensitive and they may react aggressively once their faces are doused with water. It’s best to use a water wipe to clean your Chi’s face while you wash its face.
Q: Do Chihuahuas like water?
A: Unfortunately, Chihuahuas are not known to be water lovers. Still, you can get your Chi used to baths and soaking in the water by starting them young. However, make sure that the doggo is wearing a flotation device to prevent drowning. Many pet owners are successful in making their Chihuahuas like water through a careful and slow introduction.
Final words
The best shampoo for short hair Chihuahua will keep your pet’s coat clean and healthy. Just make sure that you get one with natural and safe ingredients as well as mild odors that won’t irritate your dog’s nose.
When in doubt, it’s always best to consult your dog’s veterinarian. This is much so when purchasing medicated shampoos or if your Chihuahua has a lingering skin problem.
What do you think of these pet shampoo products? Share your thoughts below!
Here at ILoveChihuahua, we share our personal experiences as owners of this feisty breed. We talk about recommended methods, dog supplies picks, and advice on common Chihuahua problems. Our goal is to promote responsible dog ownership, so there would be fewer Chihuahuas in shelters.
