For The Dogs

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It was Aesop devotee and jewelry designer Sophie Bille Brahe who first alerted us to the existence of Aesop Animal, a version of the brand's marvelous shampoo—formulated for pets. Seeing that ITG has recently become occasional host to Chino, Shiba Inu and resident office mascot, this was of exceptional interest. It turns out, plenty of human brands (Kiehls, Malin + Goetz, Burt's Bees...) make products for man's best friend (also, cats). Frivolous? A tad. But why should the pet of a beauty junkie not get to reap some of those rewards?

With that question in mind, and some help form folks over at BarkBox, a site that sends monthly boxes full of new treats to dogs (and their humans), here is a quick and dirty review of the best dog shampoos, conditioners, and other grooming tools to use if you're interested in product-matching your pup:

Chino [photo 2], and owner Rebecca, are already loyal fans of Aesop Animal—after two washes, Chino's skin is noticeable softer and the frequent washes aren't drying out Rebecca's hands like other brands have the tendency to do.

Tulip [3] tried the neroli-scented Malin + Goetz Dog Shampoo, which left everyone involved (owner and photographer included) smelling fresh and clean, but not artificial.

Audrey [4], a toy Australian Shepherd with two coats of fur, benefitted from the Kiehl's Spray-N-Play Spritz, which is just as effective as a full soak, but infinite times more efficient because, as the name suggests, a quick spray is all that's required and you're on your way. No bathtub full of water or resulting cleanup needed.

Willie Nelson [5], a 12-week-old Great Dane/Tree Hound mix (who happens to be up for adoption through Friends With Four Paws, if you're looking for a new roommate) got a bath from Foster Mom Melissa in the Burt's Bees Oatmeal Shampoo, a calming formula to help with dry skin and the dandruff he's currently suffering from.

Got any favorites? Let us know—Chino's always looking for good recommendations...

Photos at BarkBox HQ by Tom Newton.