Iv San Bernard Mint shampoo, 1 L is a toning shampoo with peppermint extract and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride) for dogs and cats. The manufacturer intends it for frequent use: it should leave the coat soft and silky, freshen it and leave a pleasant scent. It can be diluted with water 1:3 before washing and is left on the coat for 3 minutes. It is made for professional use and has been microbiologically tested.
What the manufacturer claims
According to the description, mint has toning and refreshing properties and, combined with vitamin B6, "ensures the vitality of every hair" and has a positive effect on the skin. The shampoo deodorises the coat. The listing also says it has repellent properties and protects against flea infestation. For best results, the manufacturer recommends the mask from the same line after washing.
Key specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | shampoo for frequent washing |
| For | dogs and cats |
| Cleansing base | sodium laureth sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, decyl glucoside |
| Active ingredients | peppermint leaf extract, vitamin B6 |
| Preservatives | phenoxyethanol, DMDM hydantoin |
| Colourants | CI 19140, CI 42080, CI 42090 |
| Dilution | 1:3 with water, 3 minutes on the coat |
| Volume | 1 L |
Pros
- For frequent washing. That is how the manufacturer positions it.
- Real mint inside. Peppermint extract is listed, unlike the brand's "fruit" shampoos.
- Vitamin B6. Pyridoxine is in the formula.
- Economical. A litre diluted 1:3 lasts many baths.
- Fresh smell. Deodorises the coat.
- Full ingredient list. Every component is listed.
Cons and what to watch
- "Flea protection" is unproven. There are no insecticides in the formula; it cannot treat or prevent fleas.
- Sodium laureth sulfate. A fairly strong surfactant for sensitive skin.
- DMDM hydantoin and dyes. Not the best choice for allergy-prone pets.
- Errors in the name. The listing title mixes languages and has typos.
Mint and fleas
Insects may dislike the smell of mint, but the shampoo is rinsed off within minutes and leaves no active anti-parasite ingredient on the coat. So the claim that it "protects against flea infestation" is best treated as marketing. For real protection use spot-ons, tablets or a collar — see flea and tick treatments for dogs and for cats. If fleas are already present, you need an anti-parasite shampoo with an active ingredient.
How to dilute and wash
Wet the coat down to the skin. Dilute the shampoo 1:3 with water — it spreads more easily and rinses faster. Massage it in, leave for 3 minutes and rinse thoroughly. Repeat if needed. More on choosing and washing technique in dog shampoo: how to choose and how to wash.
If the skin is sensitive
Sodium laureth sulfate cleans well but can dry the skin with frequent washing. If itching or dandruff appears after baths, wash less often, always use a mask or conditioner and consider a milder shampoo. With redness or scratching, it is better to see a vet.
A mask after shampoo
The manufacturer recommends applying the Mint mask after shampoo: it softens the coat, reduces static and smooths the hair cuticle. This matters most for long coats, which tangle without it.
For cats
The shampoo also suits cats, but rinse especially well: cats groom themselves and do not need mint and fragrance in their mouths. How to prepare for a bath — see how to bathe a cat.
Compared with other shampoos of the brand
If you want a shampoo focused on coat care rather than freshness, look at Iv San Bernard Orange or Green Caviar. For frequent washing of short-coated dogs, Mint is handy thanks to its economical one-litre bottle.
Who it suits
The shampoo suits healthy dogs and cats that are washed often — especially after walks and to freshen their smell. Allergy-prone pets and animals with dry skin are better off with a gentle formula. Other shampoos are in dog shampoo and Iv San Bernard.
Verdict
Iv San Bernard Mint is an economical refreshing shampoo with real mint extract and vitamin B6, designed for frequent washing. The downsides are a strong surfactant, DMDM hydantoin and dyes, plus an unproven flea protection claim.
FAQ
Does the shampoo protect against fleas?
No, there are no insecticides in it. Dedicated anti-parasite products are needed.
How do I dilute it?
With water, 1:3.
How long should it stay on the coat?
3 minutes, then rinse.
Can I wash often?
The manufacturer intends it for frequent use; with dry skin, wash less often.
Is it suitable for cats?
Yes, if rinsed thoroughly.
Does it contain mint?
Yes, peppermint leaf extract.
Do I need a conditioner?
It is advisable: the manufacturer recommends the mask after shampoo.
