Best Antifungal & Antibacterial Dog Shampoo UK (2026)
Folkestone Groomers Team
3 September 2025
12 min read
Affiliate Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we trust and believe will be valuable to our readers.
Best Antifungal Shampoo for Dogs UK: Vet-Approved Picks (2026)
Quick Answer: The best antifungal shampoos for dogs in the UK are Malaseb (prescription-only POM-V, best for severe cases), DOUXO S3 PYO Shampoo (over-the-counter, 3% chlorhexidine), and Virbac Pyoderm Shampoo (antibacterial and antifungal). Always get a vet diagnosis first—what looks like fungal infection may be allergies or bacterial issues requiring different treatment.
If your dog has persistent skin issues that regular grooming hasn't resolved, you might be wondering about antifungal shampoos. This guide explains when these specialized products may be appropriate and how they're used safely under veterinary guidance.
Important: Medicated antifungal shampoos should only be used under veterinary direction. What looks like a fungal issue could be allergies, bacterial infections, or other conditions requiring different treatments. Always consult your vet for proper diagnosis before starting any medicated treatment.
In this guide, you'll learn: When antifungal shampoos may be recommended, how they work, what products are available in the UK, and the proper bathing process when prescribed by your vet. We'll also cover when to seek professional help and what questions to ask your veterinarian.
🇬🇧 Safety Note (UK)
This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Medicated antifungal shampoos should only be used under veterinary guidance. In the UK, some antifungal treatments are classified as POM-V (Prescription Only Medicine - Veterinary) and require a prescription from a registered veterinarian.
Always consult with a qualified veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Do not attempt to diagnose or treat skin conditions without professional veterinary assessment.
What's Actually Causing Your Dog's Skin Problems?
Most dog owners think all skin problems are the same, but they're not. Antifungal shampoos work on specific conditions - use them on the wrong problem and you'll waste time and money.
Here's what antifungal shampoos actually treat:
Yeast infections (Malassezia dermatitis) - The big one. Your dog's skin feels greasy, smells musty, and they can't stop scratching. This is the most common fungal problem in dogs.[2]
Ringworm - Not actually a worm (confusing, we know). Creates circular patches where hair falls out. Highly contagious to humans and other pets.
Seborrheic dermatitis with yeast - When your dog's natural skin condition gets complicated by yeast overgrowth. Double trouble.
Secondary bacterial infections - Many good antifungal shampoos also fight bacteria, because fungal infections often invite bacterial problems too.
The key is the contact time: These shampoos need 10 minutes on your dog's skin to work properly.[5] Most people rinse too quickly and wonder why nothing improves.
UK Treatment Options:
Prescription-strength: Malaseb (miconazole + chlorhexidine) is POM‑V and must be prescribed by your vet[1]
Non-prescription: 3% chlorhexidine antiseptic shampoos for milder cases[2]
Your vet can help determine which strength and formulation is most appropriate for your dog's specific condition. For general grooming needs when your dog doesn't have fungal issues, check our guide on the best shampoos for dog grooming at home.
If you're dealing with persistent skin issues, consider consulting with professional groomers who have experience with medicated treatments. Browse our directory of dog groomers in Folkestone or explore specialty Dog Grooming Services for dogs with specific health needs.
Between Professional Grooms?
Self-service dog washes give you professional-grade equipment (hydraulic tables, high-velocity dryers) without buying your own. Pay-per-use from £10-15.
Antifungal shampoos are specially formulated products that your vet may recommend for specific skin conditions. They're different from regular dog shampoos because they contain active ingredients designed to address fungal and yeast issues.
Key differences from regular shampoo:
Targeted ingredients - Contains antifungal compounds like ketoconazole, miconazole, or chlorhexidine that your vet has selected for your dog's specific needs.[3]
Longer contact time required - Must be left on for 5-10 minutes as directed by your vet or the product label, unlike regular shampoos that can be rinsed immediately.
pH formulated for treatment - Designed to work alongside your dog's skin chemistry as part of a vet-guided treatment plan.
Thorough cleansing action - Helps remove buildup and debris as part of the overall skin care routine recommended by your vet.
When to Consult Your Vet About Skin Issues
Only your vet can determine if your dog needs antifungal shampoo. However, certain signs indicate it's time to book an appointment for professional assessment.
Schedule a vet visit if you notice:
Persistent unusual odours that don't improve after regular bathing
Changes in skin texture such as greasiness or unusual dryness
Increased scratching or discomfort that seems to be getting worse
Red or inflamed areas on your dog's skin
Hair loss in circular patterns or patchy areas
Skin that appears darker or thicker than normal
Additional signs that warrant professional attention:
Discolouration between toes or in skin folds
Excessive paw licking or chewing
Recurring ear problems
Flaky or scaly skin that persists
Important: Your vet will examine your dog, possibly take skin samples, and determine the best treatment approach. They can prescribe the right strength antifungal shampoo if needed, or recommend alternative treatments.
Your vet will recommend the most appropriate antifungal shampoo for your dog's specific condition. Here are the main types available in the UK, ranging from prescription-only medicines to gentler options that may be used as part of a treatment plan.
Prescription-Only Medicines (POM-V)
Malaseb (miconazole 2% + chlorhexidine 2%) - A prescription-only antifungal shampoo commonly prescribed by UK vets for fungal and yeast skin conditions. Contains both antifungal and antiseptic ingredients.[1]
Malaseb Medicated Shampoo
Type: Prescription antifungal and antibacterial shampoo (POM-V)
Active Ingredients: Miconazole nitrate 2% + Chlorhexidine digluconate 2%
Available Sizes: 250ml and 500ml bottles
Typical UK Price: Around £31 (250ml) with valid prescription
Status: POM-V (Prescription Only Medicine - Veterinary)
Best For: Severe yeast infections, ringworm (dermatophytosis), seborrhoeic dermatitis
Malaseb is the gold standard prescription shampoo for fungal skin conditions in UK veterinary practice. The combination of miconazole (antifungal) and chlorhexidine (antibacterial) makes it effective against both primary fungal infections and secondary bacterial complications. Typically used 2-3 times weekly with a 10-minute contact time before rinsing.
Dermcare Aloveen Oatmeal Intensive Conditioner - A conditioning product that may be recommended alongside medicated shampoos for dogs with sensitive skin as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Non-Prescription Options
DOUXO S3 PYO Shampoo (3% chlorhexidine) - Contains chlorhexidine as an antiseptic ingredient. Available from UK pet stores and online retailers. Your vet can advise if this is suitable for your dog's condition.[2]
DOUXO S3 PYO Antibacterial & Antifungal Shampoo
Type: Over-the-counter antiseptic shampoo with antibacterial and antifungal properties
Active Ingredient: Chlorhexidine 3%
Available Sizes: 200ml bottle
Typical UK Price: From £15.26 (200ml)
Status: Over-the-counter (no prescription required)
Best For: Mild to moderate bacterial and yeast skin infections, maintenance care
DOUXO S3 PYO is a popular over-the-counter option that's effective for less severe skin issues or as ongoing maintenance after prescription treatment. The 3% chlorhexidine formula has both antibacterial and yeast-controlling properties. It's gentle enough for regular use while still providing clinical-grade antiseptic action. Suitable for dogs and cats.
Coatex Medicated Shampoo - A pH-neutral, soap-free formulation designed for dogs with skin sensitivities. May be recommended as part of ongoing skin care routines.[4]
Chlorhexidine + Ketoconazole combinations - Products containing 1% ketoconazole + 2% chlorhexidine are available from various manufacturers. Your vet can recommend specific brands suitable for your area and your dog's needs.[5]
Earthbath All Natural Pet Shampoo with tea tree oil - Contains tea tree oil, which has natural antiseptic properties. May be suitable for maintenance care as directed by your vet.
Vet's Best Medicated Oatmeal Shampoo with salicylic acid - Contains salicylic acid and oatmeal. Formulated for dogs with flaky or scaly skin conditions.
Important: Always get a proper diagnosis from your vet first. They can test to see exactly what's causing the problem and recommend the right strength treatment.
Need help with medicated baths? Our experienced groomers know how to handle dogs with skin conditions safely and effectively.
Skin infections in dogs often involve both fungal and bacterial organisms. When your dog has a mixed infection, a dual-action shampoo that targets both problems can be more effective than using separate products.
Your vet may recommend a combined antibacterial and antifungal shampoo when skin testing shows both types of infection present, or when one type of infection has allowed the other to develop as a secondary problem.
Top Dual-Action Products Available in the UK
Virbac Pyoderm Shampoo - This dermatological shampoo contains chlorhexidine and is specifically formulated for both antibacterial and antifungal action. Widely available from UK veterinary suppliers and pet pharmacies.[6]
Malaseb - Combines miconazole (antifungal) with chlorhexidine (antibacterial) making it effective against mixed infections. Requires vet prescription in the UK as it's classified POM-V.[1]
DOUXO S3 PYO - While primarily antibacterial with its 3% chlorhexidine content, it also helps control skin microflora including yeast when used as part of a treatment plan recommended by your vet.[2]
Why Combined Products Work Better for Some Dogs
Skin conditions rarely exist in isolation. When your dog scratches at a fungal infection, bacteria from their paws or environment can enter the damaged skin. Similarly, a bacterial infection can disrupt the skin's natural balance, allowing yeast to overgrow.
Using a dual-action product means you're addressing both problems with one treatment, which can speed up recovery and reduce the number of bath sessions needed.
Key Ingredient: Chlorhexidine digluconate (antiseptic with antibacterial and antifungal properties)
Available Sizes: 250ml bottle
Typical UK Price: Around £11-15 (250ml)
Status: Over-the-counter (no prescription required)
Best For: Dogs with bacterial and fungal skin infections, skin disorders associated with microbial imbalance
Virbac Pyoderm is formulated to help manage skin disorders in dogs and cats. It contains Virbac's Glycotechnology which helps soothe and restore natural skin balance while the chlorhexidine works to control bacterial and fungal growth. Suitable for use 2-3 times weekly or as directed by your vet.
Ringworm (dermatophytosis) is a fungal infection that appears as circular patches of hair loss. Despite the name, it's not caused by a worm—it's a fungus that lives on the skin and hair shafts. This condition is highly contagious to both humans and other pets.[7]
Treatment requires a combination of oral medication (prescribed by your vet) and topical treatment with medicated shampoos. Shampoo alone won't cure ringworm, but it's essential for controlling the spread and removing fungal spores from your dog's coat.[8]
Recommended shampoos for ringworm treatment:
Malaseb - The most commonly prescribed shampoo for ringworm in the UK. The miconazole + chlorhexidine combination is effective at removing spores from the coat. Requires vet prescription (POM-V).
Chlorhexidine + Miconazole combinations - Your vet may recommend twice-weekly bathing with these medicated shampoos as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.[9]
Treatment typically lasts 6 weeks or longer, even after symptoms appear to clear. Your vet will take fungal cultures to confirm the infection is completely gone before stopping treatment. Environmental decontamination is also critical—wash all bedding, toys, and surfaces your dog contacts.
⚠️ Ringworm is Zoonotic
This means it can spread from dogs to humans. Wear gloves when bathing an infected dog, wash your hands thoroughly after contact, and watch for circular, scaly patches on your own skin. If you develop symptoms, see your GP.
The best antifungal shampoo depends on your dog's specific condition. Malaseb (prescription) is considered the gold standard for severe fungal infections like ringworm and yeast dermatitis.
For over-the-counter options, DOUXO S3 PYO and Virbac Pyoderm are effective for mild to moderate cases. Always get a vet diagnosis first to ensure you're treating the right condition.
Can I use Nizoral shampoo on my dog?
No, you shouldn't use human Nizoral (ketoconazole) shampoo on dogs without vet guidance. While ketoconazole is safe for dogs when used in vet-approved formulations, human shampoos have different pH levels and concentrations that may irritate your dog's skin.
Human Nizoral may also contain additional ingredients not suitable for pets.[10] Always use veterinary-specific products formulated for dogs. If your vet recommends ketoconazole treatment, they'll prescribe a dog-specific product with the correct concentration and formulation for canine skin.
Is ketoconazole shampoo safe for dogs?
Yes, ketoconazole shampoo is safe for dogs when prescribed by a vet and used as directed. Veterinary ketoconazole shampoos (often combined with chlorhexidine) are formulated specifically for canine use with appropriate pH levels and concentrations.
However, it should be used with caution on broken or burned skin, and you must prevent your dog from licking the shampoo during treatment. Always follow your vet's instructions for contact time (typically 5-10 minutes) and frequency of use.
How often should I use antifungal shampoo on my dog?
Follow your vet's specific instructions, as frequency depends on your dog's condition and the product prescribed. Typically, vets recommend 2-3 times per week initially, but never use daily unless specifically directed by your veterinarian.
Can I use human antifungal shampoo on my dog?
No, never use human antifungal products on dogs. Human shampoos have different pH levels and may contain ingredients that are toxic to pets. Always use veterinary-approved products specifically formulated for dogs.
How long should I leave antifungal shampoo on my dog?
Most antifungal shampoos require 5-10 minutes of contact time to be effective, but follow your vet's directions and the product label exactly. This contact time allows the active ingredients to work properly.[3]
Can I use antifungal shampoo on puppies?
This depends on the specific product and your puppy's age. Many antifungal shampoos are safe for puppies over 12 weeks, but always consult your vet first. Puppies have more sensitive skin and may need gentler formulations.
What should I do if my dog licks the shampoo during bathing?
Rinse your dog's mouth immediately with clean water and contact your vet if large amounts were ingested. To prevent this, consider using an Elizabethan collar during the contact time or having someone help distract your dog.
How long does it take to see improvement?
When used as directed by your vet, you may see improvement within 1-2 weeks. However, complete treatment typically takes several weeks. If you don't see improvement after 2-3 weeks of proper use, contact your vet for reassessment.
Should I dilute the antifungal shampoo?
Only dilute if specifically instructed on the product label or by your veterinarian. Most antifungal shampoos are formulated to be used at full strength for maximum effectiveness.
What's the difference between antifungal and antibacterial shampoos?
Antifungal shampoos target yeast and fungal issues, while antibacterial shampoos target bacterial infections. Some skin conditions involve both types of organisms, which is why many vets recommend dual-action products like Malaseb or Virbac Pyoderm. Your vet can determine which type your dog needs through proper examination and testing.
Can I buy Malaseb without a prescription?
No, Malaseb is classified as POM-V (Prescription Only Medicine - Veterinary) in the UK, which means it must be prescribed by a registered veterinarian. You cannot purchase it without a valid prescription. Your vet will need to examine your dog and confirm the diagnosis before prescribing Malaseb.
Key Takeaways
Start with professional guidance: Get a clear diagnosis and follow your vet's specific treatment plan.[3]
For UK pet owners:Malaseb requires a prescription, while milder options like DOUXO S3 PYO and Virbac Pyoderm are available over-the-counter for less severe cases.[1][2]
Remember: Proper contact time (usually 10 minutes), thorough rinsing, and regular vet check-ups are essential for successful treatment.
If your dog experiences persistent skin issues despite treatment, or if you need help bathing an anxious dog with medicated shampoo, see our guide on calming anxious dogs during grooming.
