While we love dogs, there’s no denying that they can get a little stinky in between baths. While a bath can be a simple solution to odor issues, frequent baths can end up drying out and irritating their skin and coat. Dog colognes are the perfect solution to keeping your dog smelling fresh and clean. However, it can be tricky to find the right dog cologne for your dog because the options are seemingly endless.
To make your search easier, we have reviews of some of the most popular dog colognes. Our list contains a variety of colognes that have different fragrances and other skin and coat care benefits. You will be sure to get a good idea of what type you need and find the right cologne for your dog.
A Quick Glance at Our Favorites of 2024
The 10 Best Dog Colognes
1. Hepper Pet Cologne Spray – Best Overall
Volume: | 8 fl. oz |
Scent: | Aloe and cucumber |
Main Ingredients: | Water-based formula |
Hepper Pet Cologne Spray is the most well-rounded and best overall dog cologne you will find. It is designed to be safe to use on dogs with sensitive skin. Its water-based formula is free of harsh chemicals such as alcohol, sulfates, silicone, and parabens. It also dries quickly without leaving your dog’s coat feeling greasy or oily.
The aloe and cucumber scent is refreshing without being overpowering. You can use this cologne as a deodorizing spray, or it can be used as a detangler and help reduce static. It’s also safe to use on puppies and kittens, making it an excellent choice for multi-pet households. The only thing to be careful of is the spray nozzle. It has a comfortable and ergonomic design, but the plastic can break easily if you drop the bottle.
At Dogster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool pet company!
Pros
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Free of any harsh chemicals
- Can detangle and reduce static
- Safe for puppies and kittens
Cons
- The spray nozzle can break easily
2. Arm & Hammer Kiwi Super Deodorizing Dog Spray – Budget Buy
Volume: | 8 fl. oz |
Scent: | Cucumber kiwi blossom |
Main Ingredients: | Water, coconut-based surfactants, sodium bicarbonate |
Arm & Hammer is known for creating many reputable pet grooming and deodorizing products at affordable prices. So, it’s safe to say that the Arm & Hammer Kiwi Blossom Super Deodorizing Dog Spray is the best dog cologne for the money. The formula contains natural ingredients and is free of parabens and sulfates. It’s also pH-balanced, so it’s a safe choice for dogs with sensitive skin.
If you use unscented shampoo and conditioner, you can use this dog cologne on wet fur after a bath. It can also be sprayed on dry fur in between baths if you’d like to freshen up your dog’s coat. Just keep in mind that it’s mainly for deodorizing. It does contain some moisturizing ingredients, but it’s not the best for moisturizing or detangling the coat. So, it’s best for those who are just looking for a pet odor deodorizer and not in need of anything else.
Pros
- The formula contains all-natural ingredients
- Free of parabens and sulfates
- Can be sprayed on wet and dry fur
Cons
- Not meant to moisturize or detangle coat
3. ARI Probiotic Vanilla & Almond Dog Deodorizing Spray
Volume: | 8 fl. oz |
Scent: | Vanilla and almond |
Main Ingredients: | Filtered water, colloidal oatmeal, probiotic blend |
If you want to indulge your dog in luxury, Health Extension ARI Probiotic Vanilla & Almond Dog Deodorizing Spray is the perfect choice. Not only does it have a pleasant fragrance, but it also helps to nourish and revitalize the skin and coat. The formula contains a blend of natural probiotics, which create a defensive barrier that protects your dog’s skin and coat from environmental damage. It nourishes the coat to prevent dryness, itchiness, and inflammation. The vanilla and almond scent isn’t overpowering and doesn’t smell artificial. However, it’s a bit mild and tends to fade rather quickly.
This dog cologne is also an excellent option for anyone looking to shop consciously. The formula is cruelty-free and biodegradable, and the bottle is made from recycled materials.
Pros
- Probiotic blend prevents dryness and itchiness
- Formula contains all-natural ingredients
- Eco-friendly formula and packaging
Cons
- Scent fades relatively quickly
4. Skout’s Honor Probiotic Deodorizing Spray
Volume: | 8 fl. oz |
Scent: | Fresh scent |
Main Ingredients: | Water, probiotic blend, citric acid |
It’s never too early to invest in your puppy’s skin and coat health. Skout’s Honor Happy Puppy Probiotic Daily Use Cat & Dog Deodorizing Spray is specifically formulated for puppies 8 weeks old and up. It’s made with natural ingredients and has a gentle formula that’s free of parabens and sulfates. It contains a probiotic blend that protects the skin and coat and prevents dryness, itchiness, and odors. Overall, it does a great job moisturizing the skin and coat and keeping odors at bay.
However, it’s worth noting that this is a daily spray, so it’s best to apply it daily to keep your puppy smelling clean and fresh in between bath days.
Pros
- Specifically formulated for puppies
- Gentle, paraben and sulfate-free formula
- Natural probiotics prevent dryness and odors
Cons
- Requires more frequent applications
5. Bio-Groom Groom ‘N Fresh Cologne Dog Spray
Volume: | 8 fl. oz |
Scent: | Fresh scent |
Main Ingredients: | Purified water, solvent (alcohol), fragrance blend |
Bio-Groom Groom ‘N Fresh Cologne Dog Spray is a trusty and reliable dog cologne that’s sure to keep your dog smelling fresh and clean in between baths. It’s safe to spray on dogs of all ages and can also be used with topical flea and tick treatment. It’s super quick and easy to use and has a long-lasting scent.
However, there are mixed reviews regarding the fragrance. Some people love the fresh scent, while reviews state that it’s overpowering and smells too artificial.
Pros
- Safe to use on puppies
- Can use with flea and tick treatment
- Long-lasting scent
6. Pet Silk French Vanilla Dog & Cat Cologne
Volume: | 4 fl. oz, 11.6 fl. oz |
Scent: | French vanilla |
Main Ingredients: | Deionized water, fragrance, polysorbate 20 |
Pet Silk French Vanilla Dog & Cat Cologne is a versatile spray with several different uses. First, the fragrance lasts a long time, so you don’t have to use as many applications in between baths. It also isn’t just meant to mask odors. The formula works to eliminate them to keep your dog smelling fresh. This cologne also has moisturizing and detangling components, so you can spray it onto your dog’s coat to make brushing through tangles and mats much easier.
This cologne also dries quickly and doesn’t leave behind a greasy residue. Because of all its capabilities, it’s a great addition to many dog owners’ grooming supplies. The only thing to keep in mind is that the formula is designed for adult dogs, so it’s best to refrain from using this cologne on puppies.
Pros
- Long-lasting fragrance
- Moisturizes and detangles coat
- Dries quickly and doesn’t leave a greasy residue
Cons
- Not formulated for puppies
7. Pet MD Deodorizing Japanese Cherry Blossom Cat & Dog Body Spray
Volume: | 8 fl. oz |
Scent: | Japanese Cherry Blossom |
Main Ingredients: | Water, polysorbate 20, PEG-30 hydrogenated castor oil |
Pet MD Deodorizing Japanese Cherry Blossom Cat & Dog Body Spray is another excellent option for those looking for an effective deodorizing cologne. The formula works to eliminate odors and leaves your dog smelling like fresh Japanese Cherry Blossoms. It’s designed to be gentle on sensitive skin and can be used for dogs over 12 weeks old. It also contains moisturizing ingredients that can reduce static.
A little goes a long way with this spray. When using it, make sure not to overdo it with spritzing because it tends to leave a greasy residue that sticks to your dog’s coat.
Pros
- Eliminates odors
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Can reduce static
Cons
- Can leave a greasy residue on coat
8. Colognes for Pets Inner Peace Dog Cologne Spray
Volume: | 8 fl. oz |
Scent: | Lavender |
Main Ingredients: | SD alcohol 40, deionized water, fragrance |
This dog cologne has a formula designed to last for up to a week. It’s safe to use on sensitive skin, and it makes your dog’s coat look soft and shiny after one application. Its lavender fragrance does have mixed reviews among users. Some say that it’s too strong, but it does fade after a few days and definitely lasts for about a week.
The bottle also has a convenient design and is great to bring with you and your dog on your travels. It comes with a secure cap so that you can carry it with you everywhere without worrying about the contents spilling.
Pros
- Fragrance lasts for up to a week
- Safe on sensitive skin
- Good size for traveling
Cons
- Mixed reviews on the scent
9. Top Performance Fresh Pet Cologne
Volume: | 8 fl. oz |
Scent: | Floral |
Main Ingredients: | Sd alcohol, purified water, fragrance |
Top Performance Fresh Pet Cologne is your basic dog cologne that does its job very well. It has a long-lasting formula that works to control pet odors and keep your dog smelling fresh. It has a pleasant floral scent that’s appealing to most people. If you really like the fragrance, you can use the accompanying shampoo that contains the same scent.
It’s important to note that this cologne is specifically designed for deodorizing. It isn’t meant to moisturize or reduce static. So, if you’re looking for a cologne that also conditions the skin and coat, it’s best to look for a different option.
Pros
- Long-lasting formula
- Has a pleasant floral smell
- Can be paired with shampoo with same scent
Cons
- Does moisturize skin and coat well
10. EZ Groom Filthy Beast Scent Dog & Cat Cologne
Volume: | 2 fl. oz |
Scent: | Tangerine |
Main Ingredients: | Water and oil formula |
EZ Groom Filthy Beast Scent Dog & Cat Cologne is ideal for dogs that are active and on the go. It has a fine mist spray that releases a fine application that dries quickly after contact. The cologne is formulated to deodorize and freshen up your dog’s coat. It also has a water and oil base, which helps keep your dog’s coat moisturized and static-free.
This cologne comes in a small bottle that’s the perfect size for traveling. However, you’ll probably find yourself going through bottles fairly quickly, especially if you have a larger dog. Its tangerine fragrance may also be an issue for your dog, as dogs are known not to like citrus scents.
Pros
- Dries quickly
- Keeps coat moisturized
- Size is good for traveling
Cons
- Runs out quickly with larger dogs
- Dogs may not like the tangerine scent
Buyer’s Guide: How to Select the Best Dog Cologne
While you may think that dog colognes simply mask odors, they can do so much more. Some dog colognes contain ingredients that moisturize the skin and coat, while others help reduce static. Here are some key factors to focus on while shopping for a new dog cologne.
Deodorizing Ingredients
Make sure to purchase dog colognes that contain deodorizing ingredients. Cheaper dog colognes will just rely on a strong artificial fragrance to mask dog odors. These colognes usually make your dog smell worse, and they can trigger allergic reactions in both dogs and humans with fragrance allergies. Therefore, check the label and make sure that it states that the cologne has deodorizing properties.
Detangling
Some dog colognes can also be used as leave-in conditioners or coat detanglers. These types of colognes usually have a thicker consistency that helps work through mats and tangles on your dog’s coat. While this sounds great, it’s important to pay attention to the cologne’s texture and thickness. Some colognes can end up leaving a greasy or oily residue on your dog’s coat. Not only does this feel unpleasant, but more dirt and dust will cling to your dog’s coat and cause it to get dirtier faster.
Static Reduction
If your dog has long and thin hair, make sure to look for dog cologne that can also reduce static. This is especially important if you live in an area with cold and dry winter months. Spraying cologne with static-reducing ingredients will help your dog feel more comfortable by keeping their coat moisturized.
Our Selection Process For Dog Colognes
To create this buyer’s guide, our writing team and editorial staff checked customer reviews, brand reputation, and veterinary approval ratings to present the dog colognes we think should be highlighted for our readers. In some cases, we conducted hands-on testing along with seeing how much our dogs liked the dog colognes. All these factors were considered when selecting these listed dog colognes to help you make the best purchase for your furry friends.
Why Trust Dogster?
Since 2004, Dogster has been a trusted brand for dog owners online, which means we have a lot of experience with dog colognes. We take pride in promoting the well-being of all dogs—from toy breeds to giant canines. Our in-house veterinarians, writers, and editors examine each product on our lists, ensuring its quality and reputation. As pet owners ourselves, we only want the best for our furry companions. At Dogster, we are transparent about the products we promote. The nutritional information, overall brand reputation, and customer reviews are all considered for these lists. We inform you how we want to be informed.
Conclusion
Among our reviews, Hepper Pet Cologne Spray is the best dog cologne because of its gentle formula, deodorizing power, and moisturizing ingredients. Arm & Hammer Kiwi Blossom Super Deodorizing Dog Spray is a great budget-friendly option if you are looking for a basic dog cologne with a long-lasting scent. Lastly, Health Extension ARI Probiotic Vanilla & Almond Dog Deodorizing Spray is a worthwhile investment if you’re looking to splurge. This luxurious dog cologne will make your dog look and smell like they just stepped out of the salon.
Featured Image by: Nomad_Soul, Shutterstock