Frequently asked questions about M&J's natural  dog grooming products plus product recommendations for dry dog skin, dandruff, itchy dog skin and more!

Are M&J Dog Essentials products safe to use on any type of dog?

Absolutely! Whether you have a big or small dog, or a curly-, short-, or long-haired dog, our products work on all dog sizes, coat types and even on sensitive skin! And our products are ideal for all dogs, including puppies, rescues, the aging and infirm.

Tip: For big or long-haired dogs, apply a generous amount of product to your hands and rub your hands together so they’re covered in the product. This way, it’s quicker applying the product to your big dog, and it’s easier massaging the product deep underneath your dog’s long coat.

How are M&J Dog Essentials products different from any other dog grooming products?

As a Green America Approved Company, we ensure that our ingredients are of the highest quality and are sourced from responsible suppliers. 

We take a holistic approach to all of our dog grooming products. Rather than focusing on individual parts, we approach dog care as a whole. As a result, we create all of our products to unite the body, mind and spirit of your dog. 

How often should I wash my dog?

You can wash your dog as frequently or as infrequently as you would like! We recommend bathing your dog with Purely Clean Shampoo & Conditioner every 2 weeks to keep your dog clean.

Tip: If your dog is smelly between baths, apply Show Dog Shine – it’s a great leave-on conditioner and deodorizer for dogs to maintain a healthy dog coat and remove that dirty dog smell!

Should I shampoo my dog twice while washing?

If your dog is especially dirty and smelly, you may want to, but for general upkeep, one shampooing will do.

Tip: Apply Nutrient Fusion Pre-Shampoo Treatment before putting your dog in the bath. It helps to calm and detoxify the skin and condition the coat.

Can I use M&J Dog Essentials products on my cat?

No, our products were created with dogs in mind. Cats’ skin has a different PH level from that of dogs, so it wouldn’t be safe to use our products on cats.

Why can’t I use my own shampoo on my dog?

Human skin and dog skin have different PH levels. By using human shampoo on your dog, you can disrupt the acid mantle of the dog’s skin and create an environment for skin irritations to erupt. All M&J products are based on natural-based formulas specially for the unique PH level of your dog’s skin.

Where are M&J Dog Essentials products made?

M&J Dog Essentials products are produced in the USA by a FDA-registered, certified organic handler with the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) contract manufacturer that specializes in organic and natural personal care and pet products.
M&J Dog Essentials requires a very rigorous standard of quality in its manufacturing processes of its products.  All of the ingredients used in the production facility are pure, natural, safe and never tested on animals.

What are the benefits of using Nutrient Fusion Pre-Bath Treatment?

The idea for Nutrient Fusion Pre-Bath Treatment came to us after observing how uncomfortable some dogs are while in the bath tub, whether it be an older dog suffering from physical pain while standing or dogs who simply hate water, period.  Nutrient Fusion Pre-Bath Treatment addresses the dog on three levels: first, by maximizing the health of the skin and coat by infusing essential vitamins, antioxidants and botanicals, second, by shortening the time they spend in the tub (Nutrient Fusion is applied dry so the dog can be sitting while he/she is receiving the treatment), and third, by emotionally relaxing them with the use of soothing flower essences and through extra attention they are receiving from their owner. 

This ultra-moisturizing, antioxidant-rich treatment is extremely beneficial in restoring moisture and softness to the skin and coat while helping to neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals. Nutrient Fusion is non-toxic and fast absorbing so it can be left on your dog for as long as you would like before being rinsed off.

What is FreshenUp Cleansing Treatment and why should I use it?

To support busy pet owners, M&J created The FreshenUp Cleansing Treatment to gently remove dirt and smelly dog odor from a dog’s coat quickly and effectively, offering the perfect balance for on-the-go dog owners. With this treatment, your dog bath is reduced to a quick rinse off, which is perfect for busy owners.  Now, when a hectic schedule gets the best of your good dog grooming intentions, your pup can look their best in just 10 minutes.   

The FreshenUp Cleansing Treatment is packed with antioxidants and refreshing botanicals, such as gotu kola and red clover extract, to gently and effectively remove dirt and smelly dog odor. Dry shampoos can create buildup on the skin and coat but FreshenUp Cleansing Treatment, applied to a dog’s dry coat, is then rinsed off, taking the smelly dog odor and dirt with it. The treatment begins outside of the tub by massaging the product into the skin and coat.  Your dog can relax while the cucumber cleanser begins to work its magic; a quick rinse and voila, a more friendly dog bath!  

Are M&J Dog Essentials products safe and eco-friendly?

As a Gold Approved Member of the Green Business Network™ We strive to preserve our environment with as much passion and forethought as we have for our beloved canine pals.  From manufacturing our grooming essentials in the USA to using human-grade ingredients from eco-responsible companies to packaging our products in reusable or recycled materials, M&J brings you the highest quality products because we know you expect nothing less for your dog.

Offering the highest quality products while considering the environmental impact is of utmost importance to M&J Dog Essentials. In order to conserve non-renewable resources and energy, we use PCR (post consumer regrind) plastic in our bottles. PCR is created after sorting recycled materials from commercial and residential recycling programs.  The usable materials are then separated, washed and reprocessed into post-consumer resin.  Only the materials that meet high quality standards are used.  During production, the company who manufactures M&J’s PCR bottles strives to minimize their impact on the environment by using low-energy technologies and implementing responsible environmental policies. We also use human-grade ingredients from eco-responsible companies, recycled packaging materials, retail point of purchase displays made of post-industrial recycled wood and eco-chic reusable gift totes. No synthetic fragrances, sulfates, parabens, DEA, TEA or any other potentially harmful ingredients are ever used in M&J products.

How do M&J Dog Essentials products contribute to the health of my dog?

1.) Promoting healthy skin and a beautiful coat:
M&J Dog Essentials was founded with a mission to ensure that all dogs have the healthiest skin and coats imaginable. Our all-natural shampoos, conditioners, moisturizers and treatment products have been carefully designed to promote the utmost in physical and emotional wellness for our canine friends.  Each product comes with a guarantee of pure craftsmanship- the result of 15 years of tested and true botanical combinations from both dedicated estheticians and an herbalist. All of our rave-worthy, holistic grooming products are pH-balanced specifically for dogs (between 6.3-7.4) in order to support a healthy skin barrier function. M&J’s holistic products are made with the highest quality natural ingredients and never contain synthetic fragrances, sulfates, parabens, DEA, TEA or any other potentially harmful ingredients.

2.) Providing Subtle Emotional Support:
Since pet owners are concerned with not only their pets’ physical well being but also their mental health, M&J products have been deliberately designed to promote the utmost in physical and emotional wellness for our canine friends.  Our products help to heal the negative effects that our sometimes-toxic environment puts upon them through the use of flower essences and aromatherapy.  Dogs have a particular sensitivity towards our emotional unrest and stress, often to their own detriment. Our combination of oils, herbs, botanicals and flower essences in M&J products specifically help dogs enjoy happy, healthy lives. The blends of flower essences and aromatherapy customized to each M&J product help to relax and ease your pup’s mind while their skin and fur are gently cleansed.

3.) Encouraging a Healthy and Enjoyable Bath Time:
Along with a good diet and exercise, bathing your dog regularly is essential to ensure optimal health for your furry friend.  In order to help busy dog owners to keep on a regular grooming routine, the M&J team developed effective products that make the grooming process easier.  M&J offers products that suit every lifestyle; whether you want to give your dog the ultimate spa day or just need a quick fix to de-stink your pup, we have a healthy solution for you! 

How do M&J products help to improve my dogs skin?

      In conjunction with a high-quality diet and plenty of exercise, routine bathing is essential for a healthy dog lifestyle.  Like humans, dogs also experience skin issues that can arise from the change of seasons, stress and other environmental factors that often result in dry, oily or sensitive skin. To lessen the impact these factors can have on the skin, M&J has created holistic grooming systems that can to help alleviate the discomfort that our furry friends experience. 

      To further support the health of the skin, all of M&J’s holistic grooming essentials are PH-balanced specifically for dogs and full of essential vitamins, antioxidants, and nutrients so every dog can look and feel their best.

     At M&J Dog Essentials, we proudly stand behind all of our holistic grooming essentials. With every bottle comes the guarantee of our combined expertise as estheticians and 15 years of tested and true botanical combinations as herbalists, evidenced in our sincere devotion to the best possible care for our furry friends. The results are products that promote the utmost in physical and emotional wellness for your pet.

What products would you recommend for my short-coated dog with dry and flaky skin?

For short-coated dogs, like Boston Terriers, Pugs, Boxers, Beagles, Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, Bulldogs and Labs we recommend the following combination of products for dry skin.  For severe cases consult your veterinarian.

Step 1.) Nutrient Fusion Pre-Bath TreatmentInfuses nutrient rich botanicals into the skin and coat while breaking loose dirt and debris to make shampooing more effective!  Promotes a healthy skin and coat and reduces dog dandruff.

Step 2.) FreshenUp Cleansing Treatment
Packed with antioxidants and refreshing botanicals, such as gotu kola and red clover extract, to gently and effectively remove dirt and odor while lightly moisturizing the skin and coat. 

Step 3/In Between Baths Show Dog Shine Leave-In Conditioner
A hand lotion for dogs!  This fast-absorbing, milk-like product can be applied daily to eliminate odor while adding moisture and shine.

What products would you recommend for my dog with dry, flaky skin and a longer coat?

For longer coat types, like Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers, Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Golden Retrievers, Shih Tzu and Schnauzers we recommend the following combination of products for dry skin.  For severe cases consult your veterinarian.

Step 1.) Nutrient Fusion Pre-Bath Treatment
Infuses nutrient rich botanicals into the skin and coat while breaking loose dirt and debris to make shampooing more effective!  Promotes healthy skin & coat, reduces dog dandruff.

Step 2.) Purely Clean Shampoo & ConditionerGently cleanses away unwanted dirt and odor without stripping healthy natural oils from the skin and coat. This natural based shampoo is PH-balanced to leave your dog smelling fresh with a softer, more manageable coat.

Step 3/Between Baths Show Dog Shine Leave-In Conditioner
A miracle product!  Use as a rinse out detangler, or apply between baths to neutralize odor, add moisture, shine and softness without weighing hair down.  Adds healthy luster, eliminates odor, detangles, helps to naturally protect your dog’s fur against sun and insects while reducing dog dandruff.

Optional Step 4:  FreshenUp Coat TonicFor touch-ups between baths – keeps away the frizzes!

What Combination of M&J Products would you recommend for Oily Dog Skin?

For dogs with oily skin, we recommend the following products to help regulate the oil secretion.  For severe cases consult your veterinarian.

Step 1.) Purely Clean Shampoo & Conditioner
Cleans without stripping away all the healthy natural oils from the skin and coat.  For oily skin, shampoo twice to break loose excessive oily buildup.

Step 2.) Simply Soothed Herbal Rinse
Helpful for problematic skin

Step 3.)/In Between Baths – FreshenUp Coat Tonic
Ultra light, non-greasy formula tones the skin and coat while adding light moisture.  Can be used daily

Are M&J products the best choice for my dog with normal skin?

Of course!  Every M&J Dog Essentials product is made to not only help with skin problems but to help maintain the optimal health of the skin and coat. 

We recommend the following combinations of products for dogs with normal skin and coat types.

The Essential Collection (for a more thorough bath-time)

Step 1.) Nutrient Fusion Pre-Bath Treatment
Infuses nutrient rich vitamins and botanicals into the skin and coat to soothe dry, itchy dog skin.  Makes shampoo more effective.

Step 2.) Purely Clean Shampoo & ConditionerLow-sudsing and sulfate-free, our dog shampoo and conditioner will thoroughly wash away dirt and debris without stripping the natural oils from the skin and coat.  This natural based shampoo is PH-balanced to leave your dog smelling fresh with a softer, more manageable coat.

Step 3.) Show Dog Shine Leave-In Conditioner
This leave-in conditioner for dogs absorbs fast and provides your dog with natural protection against the elements while reducing dog dandruff.  Apply to your dog’s coat frequently to eliminate odor and increase luster. 

The FreshenUp Collection - Every other bath time

Step 1.) FreshenUp Cleansing TreatmentLoaded with refreshing botanicals to cleanse and moisturize the skin and coat.  Work through the coat when dry and rinse clean!

Step 2.) FreshenUp Coat Tonic
This ultra light-conditioning tonic leaves the coat feeling nourished and refreshed with a natural sheen!

My dog has sensitive skin, will M&J Dog Essentials products cause irritation?

M&J Dog Essentials products were created to be helpful to all skin and coat types, including sensitive skin, however every dog has sensitivities to different ingredients.  If your dog has a history of sensitive skin, please do a spot test or consult with your veterinarian to ensure there will not be an adverse reaction*. 

The following products can be beneficial to dog with sensitive skin*:

Step 1.) Nutrient Fusion Pre-Bath Treatment
Begins to calm, moisturize and tone the skin.

Step 2.) Purely Clean Shampoo & Conditioner
A low-sudsing gentle cleanser that cleans without stripping away the skin’s lipids and barrier protection. 

Step 3.) Simply Soothed Herbal Rinse (applied when cool)
The skin specific herbs of Chamomile, Calendula & Plantain Leaf calm and soothe the skin. 

Between/After Bath – FreshenUp Coat Tonic
Cools and strengthens the skin with Vitamin C, lavender and peppermint.

If the products are so natural, then why are the ingredient lists so long?

All of our natural ingredients have been thoroughly researched. Some of our ingredients, such as the emulsifiers, preservatives, and stabilizers, have long names but are considered natural. And we’ve spent over 15 years testing combinations of herbs, botanicals and extracts. Although the list of ingredients may be long, all of our natural-based formulas are created to bring out the utmost physical and emotional wellness in your dog.

What are flower essences? What effect does it have on my dog?

Flower essences are herbal infusions taken out from flowers. We add flower essences to our products to provide a soothing, calming effect on your dog’s mind and emotional well-being.

What are hot spots?

Hot spots on your dog are open sores due to a skin irritation or allergy. They show up as red rashes and can occur anywhere on your dog’s body, and your dog may constantly lick or scratch them.
Tip: To prevent hot spots and help itchy or irritated skin, apply Nutrient Fusion into your dog’s skin before giving him a bath (can be used on a dry coat!), but don’t apply directly to large, open sores. For severe cases of hot spots, please consult your veterinarian.

If I’m applying M&J Dog Essentials products on my dog and he licks some of the product off of himself, is it harmful?

No, if your dog licks some of the product, it will not harm him because all of our products are non-toxic, meaning they are free of sulfates, parabens or any other potentially harmful ingredients. However, they are not meant to be a nutritional supplement.

Who are your product consultants?

Meet Moe and Toby!

Can I order M&J products wholesale?

Yes. For wholesale inquiries, fill out this form.

When will my order arrive after it is placed?

Orders made Monday – Friday will ship within 24 hours after they are placed. Generally, orders will arrive within 2-7 business days. If you have any questions or problems about your order or shipment, contact us.

What is your return policy?

Visit our Return Policy page.