Ruff and Ready: Australia’s Muddiest Dog Event Returns to the Yarra Valley

Australia’s largest cross-country event for dogs and their humans is back: bigger, muddier, and set to take on the Yarra Valley. 

Adventure Dog returns on Sunday 12 April 2026, bringing Australia’s most loved canine challenge back to Wandin Park Estate in Victoria.

The Challenge

Hosted by Animal Aid, the event sees dog lovers and their four-legged teammates tackle a 4km course featuring 25 obstacles, water crossings, and plenty of mud. Whether you choose to run, jog, or walk, the focus is firmly on teamwork and fun, making it accessible for all fitness levels.

A ball at every turn: Large breeds like French Mastiffs and Swiss Shepherds prove that Adventure Dog is just as much about play as it is about the mud.

Now in its eighth year, Adventure Dog has raised more than $500,000 for animals in need. More than 1,000 dog-and-human teams are expected to transform Wandin Park Estate into a vibrant hub of community energy.

Purpose Behind the Paws

Adventure Dog is more than just a physical challenge. Funds raised directly support Animal Aid’s mission to end companion animal homelessness. These vital funds provide:

✔️ Emergency shelter and care

✔️ Veterinary treatment

✔️ Rehabilitation and rehoming services

Every muddy pawprint on the course helps another animal find safety and a "first-rate second chance."

“Adventure Dog is joy, mess and purpose rolled into one,” says Animal Aid CEO Mark Menze.

“People end up covered in mud and leave knowing they’ve helped change an animal’s life. That’s why this event keeps growing.”

Teamwork makes the dream work: Participants of all ages and fitness levels tackle the log obstacles together to raise funds for Animal Aid.

Event Details & Registration

Participants can enter individually or as part of a team with friends, family, or colleagues. Animal Aid is also calling for volunteers to help deliver this landmark event.

• When: Sunday 12 April 2026

• Where: Wandin Park Estate, 305 Victoria Rd, Wandin North VIC

• Who: Participants aged 12+ and dogs 12 months and older

• Registrations: $75 per human

Small but mighty: Whether you're a Jack Russell or a Giant Breed, every dog (and human!) gets to experience the thrill of the 'Canine Crawl'.

Sign Up at adventure-dog-2026.raiselysite.com

About Animal Aid

Animal Aid is a not-for-profit animal welfare organisation that has been helping animals in need for over 70 years. Relying on community support and fundraising, they provide shelter, veterinary treatment, and rehoming services to thousands of animals every year. 

Visit: www.animalaid.org.au | Address: 35 Killara Road, Coldstream VIC

Follow the Journey: 📘 Facebook: @VictorianAnimalAid | 📸 Instagram: @animalaid.vic | 🎥 TikTok: @animalaid.vic

No More "Shrink-to-Fit": The Melbourne Label Redesigning the Small Breed Aesthetic

Let’s be honest: the pet industry has a bit of a "small dog" problem. For years, if you owned a petite breed, your options were usually limited to "shrunken-down" versions of big-dog gear or flimsy, brightly coloured nylon that felt more like a toy than a tool. 

We’ve all seen it—a tiny Poodle or Dachshund weighed down by a clunky harness that looks like they’re prepping for a joust in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, just to go get a puppuccino!

Melbourne-born brand MIA COOSH is officially changing the narrative. They’ve realised that our dogs aren’t just pets; they’re our walking partners and coffee-date companions. And frankly, the old "park basics" just aren't cutting it anymore.

Enter MIA COOSH, the Melbourne-born brand proving that the most stylish matte gold hardware this season belongs to our four-legged friends.

Engineering, Not Just Aesthetics

The team behind MIA COOSH spent over a year redesigning walkwear from the ground up, using their own toy Poodle, Mia, as the ultimate real-world tester. They didn't just make things smaller; they re-engineered them for a different centre of gravity.

• The Weight Factor: By using narrower straps and lightweight matte gold hardware, they’ve ensured that extra-small to medium dogs can move freely without feeling like they’re dragging an anchor.

• The Ergonomic H-Frame: Designed to sit properly on smaller ribcages, this harness eliminates the common rubbing and restricted shoulder movement that many "scaled-down" brands ignore.

• The "Winter Coat" Fix: One of the smartest features is a reversible back plate. It allows you to move the D-ring closer to the neck—a total game-changer for a perfect fit when your dog is wearing a knitted sweater or a raincoat.

Built for the Australian Elements

Whether you're navigating the morning rush past Parliament Station or catching a tram to your favourite dog-friendly cafe, this gear is built for the urban reality of an Australian city walk.

While the "quiet luxury" palette (think Emerald Green, Dark Chocolate, and Vanilla Cream) looks high-end, the materials are surprisingly rugged. Every piece is crafted from premium vegan microfibre leather.

Unlike traditional leather or cheap plastic alternatives, this material is non-porous. It won't absorb that dreaded "wet dog" smell, and it’s virtually indestructible—you can simply wipe it clean after a muddy trip to the park and it looks brand new.

The "New Luxe" is Cruelty-Free

One of the most striking things about MIA COOSH is their unapologetic philosophy:

"Animals shouldn't wear animals."

For a generation of owners who have embraced "Slow Fashion" in their own closets, the disconnect in the pet industry has been glaring. MIA COOSH uses a premium vegan microfibre leather that is a world away from the "plastic-y" PU leathers of the past.

It’s a micro-matrix material that mimics the buttery texture of luxury hide but is built for the reality of a dog's life. 

Walking with Heart

It’s not just about the materials, though. MIA COOSH has built a "giving back" model into their DNA. A portion of every single order goes directly to registered Australian animal rescues to help fund the care, rehabilitation, and rehoming of dogs in need. Knowing that your dog's new walk set is helping another pup find their forever home makes the investment feel like a contribution, not just a purchase.

The Verdict: If you’re looking for gear that works as hard as it looks—and actually fits a smaller frame without the "Ashford Meadow tournament" vibes—MIA COOSH is the local discovery we've been waiting for.

The MIA COOSH Highlights:

• Best For: Extra-small to medium breeds (Toy Poodles, Frenchies, Dachshunds, etc.)

• Key Features: Lightweight matte gold hardware, H-frame ergonomics, and reversible back straps.

• Sustainability: Reusable cotton packaging + support for Aussie rescues.

• The Palette: 7 shades including Emerald Green, Dark Chocolate, Caramel Brown, Navy Blue, Rouge Red, Vanilla Cream and Blush Pink.

Price & Where to Buy

RRP: $319.00 for Signature Walk Sets (4-piece); Individual items from $69.00.

Discover the collection at miacoosh.com and stay updated on their latest rescue initiatives via Facebook and Instagram @miacoosh.

Join the Geelong Community for a Scenic Charity Dog Walk in Support of Vulnerable Animals

There is nothing quite like the sight of hundreds of happy dogs wagging their tails in unison—especially when it’s for a great cause. Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS) is thrilled to announce the return of the PAWS for GAWS Charity Dog Walk!

Whether you have a furry best friend by your side or just want to support local animals in need, this community event is the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning.

Event Details

• Date: Sunday, 1 March 2026

• Location: Eastern Park BBQ Area, East Geelong

• Time: Registrations at 9:00 AM | Walk starts at 10:00 AM

• The Route: A relaxed 4km stroll along the picturesque Geelong Waterfront.

Walking for a Second Chance

Every step taken along the waterfront helps provide a brighter future for the lost, surrendered, and stray animals in the Geelong region. GAWS CEO Helen Cocks notes that the impact of this event stretches far beyond just one day of exercise:

“As a community, when we walk together for a cause we all care deeply about, the impact goes far beyond one beautiful day,” Ms Cocks said. 

“PAWS for GAWS is not just about dogs on leashes - it’s about the thousands of animals in need of care, shelter and a second chance.”

“The support we receive through this charity dog walk directly translates into care, medical treatment and brighter futures for the animals in our shelter. We are deeply grateful for our community.”

More Than Just a Walk

After the 4km stroll, the festivities continue at the event hub! 

The day features:

• The Pooch Parade: Show off your pup in categories like Best Dressed, Waggiest Tail, and Best Trick.

• Entertainment: Family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and plenty of prizes.

• Food & Coffee: Grab a brew and a bite from our lively community stalls.

• Official Merchandise: Pick up some GAWS gear to support the cause.

Why Your Support Matters

As a not-for-profit organisation, GAWS relies entirely on the generosity of the community. Last financial year, more than 3,100 animals arrived at the shelter needing care. With costs exceeding $65 a day to care for a single animal, every registration fee and donation makes a vital difference in providing shelter, veterinary support, and rehabilitation.

How to Register

Registrations are officially open! Every participant receives a PAWS for GAWS branded dog bandana and a bumper sticker.

For more details on the registration process, ticket types, or bringing multiple dogs, please visit the official FAQs page before signing up.

Ready to join the pack? 

Visit pawsforgaws.org.au to register or to support their fundraising efforts.

About Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS)

The Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS) is a leading animal welfare organisation dedicated to providing a safe haven for lost, abandoned, and surrendered animals. As a community-focused not-for-profit, GAWS operates a high-standard shelter and veterinary clinic, ensuring every animal receives the medical attention, behavioural rehabilitation, and love they need while they wait for their forever homes.

With a mission to promote responsible pet ownership and the humane treatment of all animals, GAWS serves as a vital resource for the Greater Geelong region, rehoming thousands of pets each year thanks to the unwavering support of local volunteers and donors.

Four-Legged Heroes Wanted: How Your Healthy Dog Can Solve Melbourne’s Blood Supply Crisis

Melbourne’s pet blood supplies have hit dangerously low levels, leaving critically ill pets at risk. The Animal Referral & Emergency Network is urgently calling on local dog and cat owners to see if their pets could be the "lifesavers" the city needs right now.

Blood products are the backbone of emergency veterinary care. They are used to treat traumatic injuries, rat bait toxicity, immune-mediated diseases, and life-threatening infections. 

Without a steady supply of donors, Melbourne’s busiest emergency hospitals face an impossible challenge.

Why the Shortage?

Dr. Luke Johnston, Head of Department (Small Animal Medicine) at Greencross Vet Hospital at the University of Melbourne, explains that demand often surges during peak periods. Right now, the shortage is being felt at Greencross Vet Hospital, ARH Essendon Fields, Veterinary Referral Hospital in Dandenong (cats only), and CARE in Collingwood.

“Just like human hospitals, there are periods when our emergency departments are busier and we see an accumulation of very sick and injured patients requiring urgent care,” says Dr. Johnston. “At the moment, our sites are treating a higher number of pets with traumatic injuries, poisonings and serious medical conditions where blood transfusions are not optional — they are a critical part of treatment.”

Unlike human medicine, there is no national pet blood bank in Australia. Every drop comes from local donors.

“When several critical cases arrive close together, blood demand escalates very quickly... dogs and cats can only donate a limited amount of blood at one time.”

“That means even a short surge in emergencies can place immediate pressure on our blood supplies,” Dr. Johnston warns.

Is Your Pet a Potential Hero?

To ensure blood is available when "lives are on the line," hospitals need a pool of registered donors ready to step up.

The Rewards of Giving: In return for their bravery, donors receive:

✔️ A full veterinary health check.

✔️ A $100 Petbarn gift voucher.

✔️ The pride of saving a life.

Dog Donor Requirements:

• Weight: Over 23kg

• Age: 1–5 years old

• Health: Up to date with vaccinations, worming, and parasite control.

• Medical History: In good general health; no long-term
  
  meds; have never received a transfusion.

• Temperament: Ideally a calm disposition.

Cat Donor Requirements:

• Weight: Over 4kg (larger build preferred)

• Age: 1–5 years old

• Health: Up to date with vaccinations and parasite control.

• Medical History: Good health; have never received a transfusion.

How You Can Help Today

“Blood transfusions can be the turning point in a pet’s treatment — the moment they stabilise and have the chance to recover,” explains Dr. Johnston. “It could mean a pet going home to their family instead of us running out of options.”

If your pet meets the criteria, please contact your nearest participating emergency hospital immediately:

• Greencross Vet Hospital (UniMelb): Ph (03) 8721 1414

• ARH Essendon Fields: Ph (03) 9379 0700

• CARE Collingwood: Ph (03) 9417 6417

• Veterinary Referral Hospital Dandenong: Ph 1300 385 874 (Cat donors only)

For more information on the program, visit:
www.emergencyvet.com.au/our-services/blood-donor-program

New 2026 Data Reveals the Top Dog Food Brands Aussies Know, Trust, and Buy

The Australian packaged dog food market is currently a $2.3 billion industry. But with over 200 brands fighting for shelf space, who is actually winning? A new 2026 report from Conjointly has tracked the "brand funnel" of the industry—measuring how many people know a brand (Awareness) versus how many actually choose it (Preference).

2026 Australian Dog Food Brand Funnel: Comparing market awareness versus actual brand preference.

The "Giant" Gap: Pedigree’s Decisive Lead

Pedigree remains the undisputed king of the Australian dog food aisle. It is the only brand that achieves a "towering presence" across every stage of the buying journey:

• Awareness: 72%.

• Consideration: 37%.

• Preference: 18%.

  No other brand in Australia captures more than 10% preference, making the gap between Pedigree and everyone else "decisive".

One of the most interesting findings isn't who is the biggest, but who is the most efficient. Some brands have lower awareness but a much higher "conversion rate"—meaning if you know them, you probably buy them.

The Efficiency Gap: Fame vs. Preference

The Australian pet food market reveals a sharp divide between "Legacy Giants" who are known by many but chosen by few, and "Efficiency Leaders" who punch well above their weight class.

The Conversion Leaders (High Efficiency)

These brands have mastered the art of turning awareness into loyalty. They don't need to be known by everyone to dominate their segment.

• BlackHawk: The gold standard for efficiency. With only 46% awareness, it captures 9% preference. It effectively matches the pull of Royal Canin with significantly less "noise."

• Nature’s Gift: Another high-performer. It sits at 43% awareness with a solid 7% preference, proving that its brand message resonates deeply with its target audience.

The "Fame without Fans" (Low Efficiency)

These brands suffer from high recognition but low conversion, often due to a lack of perceived value or a failure to evolve with modern pet owner demands.

Brand                    Awareness (Fame)                Preference (Fans)                Efficiency Gap

Royal Canin                        56%                                    9%                                            Moderate
Chum                                   50%                                    3%                                            High
Hill's Pet Nutrition           45%                                    4%                                            High
Eukanuba                           22%                                   0.5%                                          Extreme

The New Wave: Fresh and Premium

While mainstream supermarket brands still hold 62% of the market, "human-grade" and fresh options are the fastest-growing segment.

Brands like Lyka (28% awareness) and Eureka (20% awareness) are leading a fresh-food revolution that is beginning to challenge traditional kibble.

Explore the Australian packaged dog food data at:

brandtracker.conjointly.com/australia/packaged-dog-food

About Brand Tracker by Conjointly

Brand Tracker delivers automated brand performance reporting with rigorous, market-representative insights. Australian businesses across industries can now access statistically weighted brand funnel data, including awareness, consideration, purchase intent and preference.

"We built Brand Tracker because traditional brand tracking locked businesses into expensive, inflexible contracts and delivered snapshots long after market conditions shifted," said Nik Samoylov, Founder of Conjointly. "Brand Tracker gives Australian businesses the easy-to-use and easy-to-digest analytics they need to know their brand positioning, brand awareness and more, without requiring a six-figure commitment."

Brand Tracker currently offers Australian businesses free access to detailed public brand data across four industries. For monitoring of your own brand with advanced analytics and real-time dashboards, Priority Access starts from the industry-breaking price of $6,000 per year – a fraction of traditional agency costs. Custom tracking solutions are also available for businesses with specific needs.

Hope, Heart, and Humanity: Meet the Remarkable Canine Heroes Redefining the Australian Spirit

In a world that can often feel heavy, the Puppy Tales Australian Dog of the Year Awards have returned for their sixth year to shine a light on the "emotional anchors" in our lives. From conservation and rescue to therapy and advocacy, these awards celebrate the everyday dogs who restore independence, confidence, and safety for people across Australia.

"These Awards intentionally shine a light on what is good and hopeful," says Awards founder Kerry Martin. 

"They celebrate dogs who remind us that kindness and care still matter, and that there is still hope, heart, and humanity in the world."

The 2026 Winners Circle

Australian Dog of the Year 2026

Louie | Border Collie | Gold Coast, QLD 

Nominated Charity: Gold Coast Centre Against Sexual Violence 

Louie is a therapy dog who supports survivors of sexual violence through calm, grounding companionship. 

Certified with Therapy Dogs Australia, he regularly visits the Gold Coast Centre Against Sexual Violence, helping people feel safe and regulated during highly vulnerable moments.

Working alongside his handler, trauma survivor and breathwork facilitator Caroline Brunne, Louie’s quiet presence highlights the powerful role dogs can play in trauma recovery and healing.

"Louie has an instinctive ability to meet people exactly where they are, without judgement or expectation. He brings gentleness to difficult conversations and reminds people they are not alone." — Caroline Brunne

People’s Choice Award

Isla | Labrador Retriever | Sydney, NSW 

Nominated Charity: Guide Dogs NSW/ACT 

The People’s Choice Award is a celebration of community spirit and the deep love we have for our dogs. 

Isla is a guide dog whose partnership has transformed Karlee Symond’s life, restoring her independence and freedom. Since being matched, Isla has supported Karlee through university study, gaining employment, and relocating independently to a major city.

Through her unwavering reliability, Isla has removed barriers and helped her human build a life once thought out of reach.

"Prior to being matched with Isla, my world was very dark, and I felt extremely isolated and limited... Isla is my eyes, my best friend and my other half." — Karlee Symond

ARAS (All Rescues Are Special) Medal

Willow | Bull Arab cross | Bittern, VIC 

Nominated Charity: Hear No Evil – Australian Deaf Dog Rescue

Willow is a deaf rescue dog who has fundamentally changed perceptions for deaf dogs across Australia. Adopted in 2015, she was taught to communicate using Auslan signs and became a national ambassador for Hear No Evil. 

Through school visits, festivals, and media appearances, her calm presence proves that deafness is not a limitation, but a different way to connect.

"The impact Willow has had with people has demystified deafness, showing that deafness is a difference, not a deficit, regardless of human or dog!"

"She has changed hearts, saved lives and left the world kinder than she found it." — Joanne Heyman

Canine Home Hero Medal

 

Honey | Pug | Redbank Plains, QLD

The Canine Home Hero Medal recognises dogs whose intuition, courage, or companionship significantly impacts their family. 

Honey, an assistance dog, provided unwavering devotion during the final months of her human Vanessa’s life, visiting her in the ICU every day for three months.

Once a timid rescue, Honey became a steady, grounding presence for Vanessa, her husband Joel, and hospital staff alike. Today, she continues to carry forward a legacy of love by supporting Joel through his grief.

"When the chips were down... Honey showed us in every possible way the incredible assistance dog she had become. She gives me reason to keep going. Honey is now my rock." — Joel (Vanessa’s husband)

Paws-itive Change Award

Gus | Labrador Retriever | Perth, WA 

The “Director of Hugs and Pats” at Ronald McDonald House WA, Gus has spent nearly a decade sensing exactly when a family needs extra support during hospital stays.

Tamma Kirkby, Ronald McDonald House WA: “As a serving member of the Ronald McDonald House WA for almost a decade there are countless Gus moments. 

From sitting beside parents receiving challenging news, playing gently with siblings who don’t understand what’s happening, and curling up with children who just need a friend. Gus has an extraordinary ability to sense when someone needs a little extra support.”

Dog of Talent Medal

Puck | Saluki | Perth, WA 

The Dog of Talent Medal recognises the clever canine who loves to excel, perform, and entertain. Puck is the definition of versatility in motion. 

As a Saluki with extraordinary focus, he is one of the first dogs of any breed in Australia to achieve champion titles across four distinct disciplines: conformation, lure coursing, tracking, and track and search.

Beyond his athletic prowess, Puck serves as a wellbeing dog, offering calm support to students at school. Thoughtful, talented, and kind, he is a powerful ambassador for both his breed and canine sports.

"Puck is my constant companion, my teammate, my teacher, and my safe place. What we share isn’t defined by titles or ribbons, but by a partnership built on trust, patience, and a shared love of doing life together." — Danielle Simpson

The Expert Judging Panel

The 2026 winners were selected by a diverse panel of industry leaders and community heroes:

• Kerry Martin: Awards Founder, international award-winning pet photographer, and creator of Puppy Tales.

• Kate Opitz: Founder of The Saltiest Dog.

• Frank Finger: Star of ABC’s Muster Dogs.

• Robyn Adair: Human to the 2025 Winner, Elle.

• Agnes Beugnon: Publisher of Australian Dog Lover.

• Georgia Gardner: Human to Valerie the Dachshund (the subject of one of Australia’s most remarkable dog reunion stories).

The Impact: $20,000 in Prizes & Donations

This year, winners, nominees, and voters shared in $20,000 worth of prizes.

• $1,000 donation by Puppy Tales to Louie’s preferred charity (Gold Coast Centre Against Sexual Violence).

• $250 donations to the nominated charities for the People’s Choice and ARAS Medal recipients.

Special Mentions: The judges also extended high praise to finalists Daisy (for her longevity in detection and therapy work) and Wil (for his life-changing role in veteran wellbeing).

The Search for 2027 Starts Now!

Do you have a hero at home? Nominations for the 2027 Australian Dog of the Year are officially OPEN.

View the Full Winners Gallery here and read the incredible Finalists' Stories here

About Kerry Martin & Puppy Tales

Kerry Martin is an internationally award-winning pet photographer and the founder of the Australian Dog of the Year Awards. Based in Melbourne but traveling nationwide, Kerry has spent 16 years capturing the bond between dogs and their people. Her accolades include Master of Photography and Australian Pet Photographer of the Year, with recent wins at the 2024 International Pet Photography Awards.

Through Puppy Tales, Kerry reaches a global community of over 500,000 dog lovers, sharing expertise on dog-inclusive travel, health, and photography. As a "business for good," Puppy Tales is carbon-negative and dedicated to animal welfare, climate action, and supporting local charities. Discover more at puppytales.com.au.