Why Dogs Suffer from Itchy Skin
If your dog frequently scratches, chews, or licks at its skin, you’re not alone. Itchy skin is one of the most common reasons pet owners seek veterinary help. It often presents as inflamed skin, with redness and swelling on affected areas such as the belly, paws, or ears.
Causes range from seasonal allergies and dry weather to food sensitivities, bug bites, and environmental irritants. While prescription medications and synthetic shampoos may offer temporary relief, they often come with harsh chemicals that can worsen the issue over time.
For long-term results and skin barrier support, many pet owners are turning to natural dog shampoo for itchy skin—solutions formulated with plant-based ingredients that cleanse gently, reduce inflammation, and restore the health of your dog's skin. These shampoos are ideal for dogs with sensitive skin, allergies, or chronic dermatitis.
Kawell USA’s Matico Pet Shampoo is a standout in this category. Infused with the healing power of Matico (Buddleja globosa), this botanical shampoo offers a naturally soothing bath experience that helps relieve itching, hydrate the skin, and bring out the shine in your dog’s coat.
Why Choose a Natural Shampoo Over Traditional Formulas?
Many commercial shampoos use synthetic detergents, artificial fragrances, and alcohol-based ingredients that can dry out a dog’s skin and disrupt its natural pH balance. This can trigger a cycle of irritation and scratching, particularly in dogs with allergies or dermatological sensitivities.
Natural shampoos are different. They are free from sulfates, parabens, and other skin-aggravating chemicals. Instead, they rely on ingredients like herbal extracts, gentle cleansers, and natural moisturizers that work in harmony with the dog’s skin microbiome. Many natural shampoos use a hypoallergenic formula to minimize irritation and protect your pet's skin from dryness and sensitivities.
Benefits of using a natural dog shampoo include:
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Calms irritated, inflamed, or red skin
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Moisturizes and protects the skin barrier
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Gentle enough for frequent use
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Free from synthetic dyes and fragrances
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Promotes healthy coat texture and shine
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Contains soothing properties to help relieve itching and discomfort
The Importance of pH Balance in Dog Shampoos
The pH level of your dog’s skin is a key factor in keeping it healthy, comfortable, and free from irritation. Unlike human skin, which is slightly acidic with a pH around 5.5, a dog’s skin is closer to neutral, typically around 7. This difference means that products designed for human skin, including human shampoo, can disrupt the natural balance of your dog’s skin, leading to dryness, itchiness, and even worsening skin allergies.
A well-formulated dog shampoo is designed to match the unique pH level of your dog’s skin, helping to preserve its natural oils and maintain a strong, healthy barrier. This is especially important for dogs with sensitive skin or those prone to allergies, as even a small imbalance can trigger irritation or flare-ups.
When choosing a shampoo, always look for one that specifically states it is pH-balanced for dogs. These gentle shampoos help prevent allergic reactions and keep your dog’s skin and coat in optimal condition, supporting overall skin health and comfort.
Kawell USA’s Matico Pet Shampoo: Plant-Based Comfort for Your Dog
Matico Pet Shampoo by Kawell USA is crafted with the powerful botanical extract of Buddleja globosa, a plant native to the rainforests of Chile and Argentina. Known locally as “Matico,” this plant has been used for centuries to treat wounds, skin inflammation, and infections.
Key Features:
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Anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness, swelling, and irritation
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Antioxidants support the healing process and protect skin cells
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Analgesic effects help relieve pain and itching naturally
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Soothing relief for itchy and irritated skin, providing comfort for sensitive dogs
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Gentle cleansing base free of parabens and sulfates
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Promotes healing of minor wounds, hot spots, and dermatitis
Matico’s ability to aid every stage of the healing process—from reducing inflammation to stimulating tissue regeneration—makes this shampoo an ideal solution for itchy, allergy-prone dogs.
What Makes Matico So Effective?
The active compounds in Matico leaves include flavonoids, phenylethanoids, and other phytochemicals that contribute to its therapeutic effects. These compounds:
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Inhibit pro-inflammatory agents like Prostaglandin E2 and Tumor Necrosis Factor
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Stimulate fibroblast growth to accelerate wound closure and skin repair
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Combat oxidative stress, protecting the skin from environmental damage
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Act as mild pain relievers, reducing the urge to scratch or lick
These benefits make Matico Pet Shampoo more than just a cleanser—it’s a healing treatment that works during every bath.
How to Use Matico Pet Shampoo for Best Results
For dogs with itchy or irritated skin, consistent use of Matico shampoo can make a noticeable difference in comfort and coat health.
Directions:
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Wet your dog’s coat thoroughly with warm (not hot) water.
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Apply a dime sized amount of Matico Pet Shampoo (more for larger dogs) and gently massage it into the coat and skin. The shampoo lathers well, so a little goes a long way.
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Work the shampoo into a rich lather, ensuring it covers the entire coat.
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Rinse thoroughly—the shampoo rinses easily, but continue rinsing until the water runs clear to remove all residue.
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Use 1–2 times per week or as needed, depending on the severity of the skin condition.
Because the shampoo is free of harsh detergents, it’s safe for regular use—even on dogs with ongoing skin issues or allergies.
The Importance of Avoiding Human Shampoo
It might be tempting to reach for your own shampoo when your dog needs a bath, but using human shampoo on dogs can do more harm than good. Human shampoos are formulated for the needs of human skin and hair, not for the delicate balance of a dog’s skin. They often contain harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and dyes that can cause allergic reactions, dry skin, and persistent skin irritation in dogs.
Washing your dog with human shampoo can strip away the natural oils that protect their skin and coat, leading to dryness, dandruff, and a dull appearance. This disruption of the natural balance can also make your dog more susceptible to skin infections and other issues.
To keep your dog’s skin healthy and their coat shiny, always use a shampoo made specifically for dogs. These shampoos are designed to maintain the natural oils and pH balance of your dog’s skin, helping to prevent irritation and keep both skin and coat in top condition.
Pair With Kawell’s Matico Natural Skin Spray
For even more powerful skin support, pair the shampoo with Kawell USA’s Matico Natural Skin Spray for Dogs. This topical treatment is ideal for daily application between baths. It helps control flare-ups, reduce itching, and protect healing skin.
Spray Benefits:
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Targeted relief for itchy patches
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Helps prevent secondary infections
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Can be used on paws, belly, ears, and other sensitive areas
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Non-greasy and fast-drying
Used together, the shampoo and spray create a complete, plant-based regimen to soothe your dog’s skin and support its natural healing process.
Safe for All Breeds and Skin Types
Whether your dog has a short, dense coat or long, fine hair, Matico Pet Shampoo is safe and effective. The shampoo benefits all types of coats, leaving fur soft, shiny, and healthy. It’s especially beneficial for:
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Dogs with environmental allergies (grass, pollen, dust)
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Dogs with dry skin due to climate or frequent bathing
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Dogs with sensitive skin or prior reactions to synthetic shampoos
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Dogs with hot spots, flea bites, or contact dermatitis
This shampoo helps maintain soft fur and improves the appearance of coats, making them look well-groomed and glossy.
This shampoo is also ideal for households where multiple dogs may have varying skin sensitivities. Its gentle formula means you can use it confidently across your entire pack.
How to Prevent Fungal Infections in Dogs
Fungal infections, such as ringworm and yeast overgrowth, can cause significant discomfort, itching, and skin problems for your dog. Preventing these infections starts with good hygiene and regular grooming.
Bathing your dog with a gentle, medicated shampoo that contains natural antifungal ingredients like tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, or salicylic acid can help keep fungal growth at bay. These ingredients are known for their ability to support skin health and provide itch relief.
In addition to regular baths, make sure your dog’s living environment is clean, dry, and well-ventilated, as dampness can encourage fungal infections. Supporting your dog’s immune system with a balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E also helps maintain healthy skin and resilience against infections.
If you notice persistent itching, redness, or unusual spots on your dog’s skin, consult your vet for diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention, combined with the right shampoo and nutrition, can help keep your dog’s skin healthy and free from fungal issues.
The Role of Diet in Skin Health
What your dog eats has a direct impact on the health of their skin and coat. A diet rich in essential fatty acids, such as those found in fish oil or flaxseed, helps to reduce inflammation and keep the skin supple and hydrated. Vitamin E and other antioxidants protect the skin from damage and support healing, making them important nutrients for dogs prone to skin issues.
If your dog struggles with allergies or chronic skin problems, it’s important to work with your vet to identify any food sensitivities that could be contributing to the problem. Avoiding common allergens and providing a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can make a noticeable difference in your dog’s comfort and appearance. Pairing a healthy diet with regular use of a gentle, hypoallergenic dog shampoo helps to maintain skin health, reduce itching, and promote a shiny, resilient coat. By addressing both internal and external factors, you can help your dog enjoy lasting relief from itchy skin and other skin issues.
Why Pet Owners Love Kawell USA’s Matico Shampoo
Pet owners who use Kawell’s shampoo often report that their dog’s itching decreases within a few uses, and the coat becomes noticeably softer and shinier, resulting in a shiny coat. Owners also note that the shampoo helps eliminate wet dog smell, leaving pets smelling fresh and clean without overpowering fragrances. Dogs appear calmer, more comfortable, and more relaxed after bath time—a testament to the soothing and non-irritating nature of Matico.
In addition to performance, many owners appreciate Kawell’s commitment to:
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Natural ingredients
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No animal testing
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Sustainable, eco-friendly packaging
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Science-backed, veterinarian-informed formulations
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes itchy skin in dogs?
Itchy skin can be caused by a variety of factors including allergies (seasonal, food, or environmental), dry air, insect bites, skin infections, or reactions to grooming products. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause is key to long-term relief.
How often should I bathe my dog with Matico Pet Shampoo?
For dogs with active skin irritation or allergies, bathing 1–2 times per week is recommended. For maintenance and prevention, once every 2–3 weeks is typically sufficient. The gentle, natural formula allows for frequent use without drying out the skin.
Can I use this shampoo on puppies?
Yes, Kawell USA’s Matico Pet Shampoo is safe for puppies over 8 weeks old. Always conduct a patch test when using a new product on young dogs to ensure no sensitivities are present.
What if my dog licks the shampoo?
The shampoo should be rinsed thoroughly after application, but if a small amount is ingested, it is generally safe due to its non-toxic, natural ingredients. Still, it’s best to keep your dog from licking lathered areas during the bath.
Does this shampoo have a fragrance?
Matico has a mild, herbal scent derived from the plant itself. There are no added artificial fragrances or perfumes, making it suitable for sensitive dogs or owners who prefer unscented grooming products.
Natural Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin Conclusion
Itchy skin can be a constant source of discomfort for your dog—and frustration for you. Fortunately, there’s a better, more natural way to manage it. With Kawell USA’s Matico Pet Shampoo, you’re choosing a gentle, plant-powered formula that doesn’t just mask symptoms, but works to restore healthy, resilient skin from the root cause.
Whether your dog suffers from seasonal allergies, chronic dermatitis, or general skin sensitivity, this shampoo offers a safe and effective path to relief. Combine it with Kawell’s Matico Skin Spray for a complete care system built on ancient wisdom and modern science.
For pet owners committed to natural wellness, Matico Pet Shampoo is more than just a bath—it’s healing in every drop.
