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Best Dog Shampoo for Yeast Infections UK (2025)
If your dog has a yeast infection, medicated shampoo is the first line of treatment vets recommend. The key ingredients are chlorhexidine (minimum 3%) or the prescription combination of miconazole and chlorhexidine, which together tackle both yeast and bacterial infections.
The smell hits you first—a strong, rancid 'cheesy' odor that clings to your dog's coat. Then you notice the scratching. Your dog is constantly itching, especially around the paws, ears, and skin folds. These are the classic signs of a yeast infection caused by Malassezia pachydermatis, and they won't go away without proper treatment.
Here's what you need to know: medicated shampoo works, but only if you use it correctly. That means leaving it on the skin for a full 10 minutes before rinsing. Most owners rinse too early, which is why the infection keeps coming back. We'll cover the best UK products, how to use them properly, and when you need to see your vet instead of trying to manage it at home.
Medical Disclaimer
This article provides general information and educational guidance only. It is not veterinary medical advice. Yeast infections can indicate underlying health problems like allergies or hormonal imbalances that require professional diagnosis and treatment. Before using any medicated shampoo, consult your vet to confirm the diagnosis and ensure the product is appropriate for your dog's specific condition. If symptoms worsen or don't improve within 7 days, contact your vet immediately.
What Are Yeast Infections in Dogs?
Malassezia pachydermatis is a yeast that lives naturally on your dog's skin. It's harmless when everything is balanced, but when something triggers an overgrowth, it turns into an infection that causes intense itching and that distinctive musty smell.
This isn't contagious—your dog can't catch it from another dog, and you can't catch it from your dog. It's an opportunistic infection that happens when underlying issues disrupt the skin's natural defences.
Signs Your Dog Has a Yeast Infection
You'll usually notice these symptoms before you get a formal diagnosis:
Strong musty or cheesy odour - it's hard to miss and doesn't go away with regular shampooing
Constant scratching and licking - particularly at paws, ears, armpits, and skin folds
Red, inflamed skin - looks pink or irritated in affected areas
Greasy or flaky skin - may feel oily to touch or have visible flaking
Brownish discharge from ears - often sticky and smelly
Darkened, thickened skin - in chronic cases, skin becomes leathery and elephant-like
Yeast loves warm, moist environments, which is why infections cluster around paws (especially between the toes), ears, skin folds on the face and body, armpits, and the area under the tail.
Why It Happens: The Underlying Trigger
Here's the crucial bit: yeast infections are almost always secondary to another problem. Treating the infection with shampoo helps short-term, but unless you address the root cause, it'll keep coming back.
Common triggers include:
Allergies - environmental (pollen, dust mites) or food allergies are the most common cause. The inflammation and scratching compromise the skin barrier
Hypothyroidism - an underactive thyroid weakens the immune system and affects skin health
Compromised immune system - whether from illness, medication, or genetics
Moisture and humidity - wet paws after walks, swimming, or living in a humid environment
Certain medications - particularly long-term antibiotics or steroids
Breeds Most at Risk
Some breeds are genetically predisposed to yeast infections, often because of skin folds, floppy ears, or underlying sensitivities. If you have one of these breeds, stay alert for early signs:
Basset Hounds
West Highland White Terriers
Cocker Spaniels
Poodles
Boxers
Dachshunds
Shih Tzus
Labrador Retrievers
Your vet can diagnose a yeast infection quickly with a skin scraping or tape test. Don't skip this step—what looks like a yeast infection could be bacterial, or a combination of both, and that affects which treatment works.
UK Regulations: What You Can Buy Without a Prescription
The most effective antifungal shampoos in the UK require a prescription. Products containing the combination of 2% miconazole nitrate and 2% chlorhexidine gluconate—the gold standard for treating yeast infections—are classified as POM-V (Prescription Only Medicine - Veterinary).
This means you need a written prescription from a UK-registered vet to buy products like Malaseb or Adaxio shampoo. Your vet will examine your dog, confirm the diagnosis, and provide a prescription if appropriate.
But here's the thing: you don't necessarily need a prescription to manage yeast infections effectively. Several non-prescription options work well, particularly those with 3% or 4% chlorhexidine, which provides strong antifungal action on its own.
Best Dog Shampoos for Yeast Infections (UK 2025)
These products represent the most effective options available in the UK, based on their active ingredients and vet recommendations.
Product
Type
Active Ingredients
Best For
Malaseb / Adaxio
Prescription (POM-V)
2% Miconazole + 2% Chlorhexidine
Gold standard treatment for combined yeast and bacterial infections
Douxo S3 PYO
OTC (Best Non-Prescription)
3% Chlorhexidine + Ophytrium
Effective OTC option with skin barrier protection
Clorexyderm 4%
OTC (Maximum Strength)
4% Chlorhexidine + moisturisers
Stubborn infections, allergy-prone skin
Malabeze
OTC (Fast Acting)
Chloroxylenol + Salicylic Acid
Quick 5-minute treatment, maintenance use
The Prescription Standard
Malaseb Shampoo and Adaxio Shampoo are the benchmark treatments, combining 2% miconazole nitrate with 2% chlorhexidine gluconate.[1] This dual-action formula tackles both yeast (Malassezia) and bacterial infections (Staphylococcus) simultaneously.
The downside? You need a vet prescription, which means an appointment and potential prescription fees on top of the product cost. For recurring infections, this adds up quickly.
Malaseb / Adaxio Shampoo
Prescription-only gold standard treatment with miconazole and chlorhexidine
Best Non-Prescription Option: Douxo S3 PYO Shampoo
This is the standout choice for treating yeast infections without a prescription.[2] Douxo S3 PYO contains 3% chlorhexidine digluconate, which provides effective anti-yeast and antibacterial action. The higher concentration (compared to the 2% in prescription products) compensates for the absence of miconazole.
What sets it apart is Ophytrium, a natural ingredient that protects and restores the skin barrier while reducing irritation. Most medicated shampoos dry the skin out; this one actively works against that problem.
How to use it: Apply to wet fur, massage thoroughly into the coat and skin, then leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing. This contact time is critical—don't rush it.
The shampoo has a coco-vanilla fragrance and is free from parabens, sulfates, and harsh chemicals. You can use it alongside Douxo S3 PYO Mousse or Pads for maintenance between baths.
Amazon UK Recommendation
Get effective OTC treatment with the Douxo S3 PYO Shampoo with 3% Chlorhexidine - featuring Ophytrium technology for skin barrier protection, antibacterial and antifungal action. Ideal for managing yeast infections without prescription.
Maximum Strength Option: Clorexyderm 4% Shampoo
For stubborn or severe infections, Clorexyderm delivers the highest concentration of chlorhexidine available without a prescription.[3] At 4% chlorhexidine digluconate, this veterinary-grade shampoo provides maximum antifungal and antibacterial power.
The formula includes moisturisers like lanolin, glycerine, and propylene glycol to counteract the drying effect of high-strength chlorhexidine. This matters because dry, damaged skin creates more problems in the long run.
It's particularly recommended for dogs with allergy-prone or chronically irritated skin. Apply to wet coat, work into a lather, leave for 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Clorexyderm 4% Shampoo
Maximum strength chlorhexidine with moisturizers for stubborn infections
Malabeze takes a different approach, using chloroxylenol, salicylic acid, and sodium thiosulphate instead of chlorhexidine. The big advantage? A contact time of just 5 minutes instead of the usual 10.
If your dog hates baths or gets anxious during grooming, cutting the wait time in half can make a real difference. It's designed for deep cleansing and deodorising, which helps with that characteristic yeast smell.
This works well as a maintenance option once you've got the infection under control with a chlorhexidine-based product.
Malabeze Shampoo
Fast-acting 5-minute treatment with chloroxylenol and salicylic acid
This is where most people go wrong: they rinse the shampoo off too quickly. Medicated shampoos only work if you leave them in contact with the skin long enough for the active ingredients to kill the yeast and bacteria.
Here's the proper protocol:
Step 1: Wet Thoroughly
Use lukewarm water to wet your dog's coat completely, right down to the skin. If your dog has a very oily or greasy coat, you might need a quick rinse with regular dog shampoo first to cut through the oil so the medicated product can reach the skin.
Step 2: Apply and Massage
Apply the medicated shampoo at several points across your dog's body and work it into a thick lather. Don't skimp on product—you need good coverage. Pay special attention to:
Between the toes - this is critical and often missed
Around the lips and muzzle
Under the tail and perineal area
Armpits and groin
Skin folds - face, neck, anywhere there are creases
Ears (external only, don't get water inside the ear canal)
Step 3: Wait the Full 10 Minutes
This is the step you can't rush. Most medicated shampoos need 10 minutes of contact time to work properly. Some products (like Malabeze) work in 5 minutes, so check your product label.
Set a timer. During this time, keep your dog calm and supervise them closely to stop them licking or ingesting the product. Distraction with treats or a lick mat can help.
Step 4: Rinse Completely
Rinse with clean water until all shampoo is gone. Any residue left on the skin can cause irritation, which defeats the purpose of treatment.
Step 5: Dry Thoroughly
This might be the most important step. Yeast thrives in moisture, so incomplete drying, especially in skin folds, creates the perfect environment for reinfection.
Use towels to remove excess water, then dry in a warm, draught-free space. A dog dryer or low heat hairdryer can speed this up, but make sure you dry thoroughly between toes, in skin folds, and under the tail.
How Often?
Bathe twice weekly during the initial treatment phase until symptoms improve. Once infection is controlled, reduce to weekly or fortnightly maintenance baths, or as directed by your vet.
Prevention and Long-Term Management
Medicated shampoo treats the symptoms, but preventing recurrence means addressing the underlying cause.
Work with Your Vet on the Root Cause
If your dog keeps getting yeast infections despite proper treatment, something else is going on. Your vet might recommend:
Allergy testing - to identify environmental or food triggers
Blood tests - to check thyroid function and rule out hormonal problems
Dietary changes - switching to a hypoallergenic or limited ingredient diet
Ongoing medication - such as antihistamines or immunotherapy for allergies
Keep Skin Dry
After walks in wet weather, wipe and dry your dog's paws thoroughly. If your dog swims or gets wet regularly, dry them completely afterwards, paying special attention to ears and skin folds.
Use Maintenance Products
Once the infection clears, products like Douxo S3 PYO Mousse, chlorhexidine wipes, or sprays can target problem areas between baths. Apply these every few days to paws, skin folds, or ears to keep yeast levels in check.
Consider a Moisturising Rinse
Medicated shampoos can be drying, especially with repeated use. A conditioner or moisturising rinse with ingredients like colloidal oatmeal or aloe vera helps soothe irritation and restore moisture to the skin barrier. Use this after the medicated shampoo and contact time.
When to Contact Your Vet
See your vet if:
Symptoms don't improve within 7 days of starting treatment
The infection keeps coming back despite treatment
Your dog develops raw patches, open sores, or severe odour
Your dog seems unwell, lethargic, or off their food
Recurring infections signal that the underlying problem needs better management, possibly including oral antifungal medication or immunotherapy. Consider reviewing your pet insurance cover if vet bills for chronic conditions become a concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use human antifungal shampoo on my dog?
No, don't use human products on dogs. Human shampoos have the wrong pH for dog skin (our skin is more acidic) and many contain ingredients that can irritate or harm dogs. Dog skin is thinner and more sensitive than human skin, so products formulated for people can cause more problems than they solve. Stick to veterinary products designed specifically for dogs.
How long does it take for a yeast infection to clear up?
With proper treatment, you should see improvement within 7 to 14 days. Most dogs need 2-4 weeks of twice-weekly bathing to fully clear an active infection. Chronic or severe cases may take longer and might require ongoing maintenance treatment. If you don't see improvement within the first week, contact your vet—you might need a different approach or additional medication.
Is chlorhexidine safe for dogs?
Yes, chlorhexidine is safe and widely used in veterinary medicine. It's one of the most effective and well-tolerated antiseptic ingredients for treating skin infections in dogs. The key is using it correctly: apply to wet skin, leave for the recommended contact time, and rinse thoroughly. Don't let your dog lick or ingest the product, and avoid getting it in eyes or ears. If skin becomes excessively dry with repeated use, add a moisturising rinse to your routine.
Why does my dog keep getting yeast infections?
Recurring yeast infections mean there's an underlying problem that hasn't been addressed. The most common culprits are allergies (food or environmental), hypothyroidism, or immune system issues. Yeast itself isn't the disease—it's a symptom of something else disrupting your dog's skin balance. Work with your vet to identify and manage the root cause. This might involve allergy testing, blood work, dietary changes, or long-term medication. Without addressing the trigger, you'll be stuck in a cycle of treating symptoms rather than solving the problem.
Can diet help prevent yeast infections?
Diet can play a role if food allergies are triggering the infections. Some dogs improve on hypoallergenic or limited ingredient diets that eliminate common allergens like chicken, beef, or wheat. However, there's no evidence that "low carb" or "yeast-free" diets prevent yeast infections—that's a myth. The yeast on your dog's skin isn't related to dietary yeast. If you suspect food allergies, work with your vet on an elimination diet or allergy testing rather than making random dietary changes.
Final Thoughts
Yeast infections respond well to treatment when you use the right products correctly. The key is choosing a shampoo with adequate chlorhexidine concentration (3-4% for OTC products), leaving it on for the full contact time, and drying your dog thoroughly afterwards.
But remember: shampoo alone won't solve recurring infections. Work with your vet to identify and manage the underlying cause, whether that's allergies, hormonal issues, or immune problems. Once you address the root trigger, maintenance becomes much simpler.
References
This article is based on verified veterinary sources and UK regulatory information:
