Understanding Ingredients in Dog Grooming Products: What to Avoid & What We Use at Bark & Basil

Choosing the right products for your dog goes beyond scent or appearance — it’s about what’s actually inside the bottle. Many conventional dog grooming products contain ingredients that can be harsh, irritating, or unnecessary for your dog’s skin and coat.

At Bark & Basil, we believe in transparency. So let’s break down some commonly used ingredients to avoid, and then walk through exactly what we use in our products — including their INCI names, common names, and what they’re made from.

Ingredients to Be Cautious Of in Dog Products

While not all dogs react the same way, the following ingredients are widely considered harsh or potentially problematic, especially for sensitive skin.

1. Sulphates (e.g. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate – SLS)

Sulphates are strong cleansing agents used to create foam and remove dirt and oils.

• Why avoid them:
  They can strip the skin of natural oils. This can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier function leading to dryness, increased sensitivity and a higher risk of irritation over time. Dogs with sensitive skin are especially prone to reacting badly.

• Commonly found in:
  Cheap shampoos and high-foaming commercial formulas.

2. Artificial Fragrances

These are synthetic scent blends used to make products smell pleasant.

• Why avoid them:
  “Fragrance” can be made up of dozens (or even hundreds) of undisclosed chemicals, some of which can trigger allergies, skin irritation, or respiratory issues.

• Better alternative:
  We use naturally derived essential oils, carefully selected and diluted to ensure they are safe and appropriate for canine skin.

3. Parabens (e.g. Methylparaben, Propylparaben)

Used as preservatives to extend shelf life.

• Why avoid them:
  Concerns have been raised about their potential hormone-disrupting properties, though research is ongoing

4. Artificial Colours (e.g. CI dyes)

Added purely for visual appeal.

• Why avoid them:
  They serve no functional purpose and can sometimes cause irritation or allergic reactions.

5. Alcohols (harsh drying types)

Some alcohols are used as solvents or preservatives.

• Why avoid them:
  They can dry out the skin and coat, especially with frequent use.

6. Phthalates (often hidden in fragrance)

Used to help scents last longer.

• Why avoid them:
  Linked to potential health concerns and not always disclosed on labels

What We Use at Bark & Basil

We take a different approach — using ingredients that are gentle, purposeful, and naturally derived wherever possible.

Every ingredient we use is chosen with intention. Below you’ll find a full breakdown of the ingredients used in Bark & Basil products, along with the INCI name, common names and what they do.

 

Why Ingredient Transparency Matters

Understanding what goes into your dog’s grooming routine allows you to make informed, confident choices. 

At Bark & Basil, we believe transparency builds trust - which is why we are open about every ingredient we use, and why we carefully select each one based on its safety, effectiveness, and suitability for dogs.

• Supports sensitive skin

• Promotes healthy coat condition

• Uses naturally derived ingredients wherever possible

• Focuses on functional, purposeful formulations.