New survey reveals over 50% of Australian dog owners fall for parasite misconceptions—here is why skipping winter protection puts your dog at risk.

As temperatures drop across Australia, many pet owners assume cooler weather brings a break from fleas, ticks, heartworm, and intestinal parasites. However, recent survey data reveals that seasonal shifts and common misconceptions may be leaving millions of dogs unprotected when they need it most.

A 2026 nationally representative study of 1,000 Australian dog owners conducted by YouGov on behalf of Zoetis Australia found that 52% of dog owners believe at least one myth about parasites. This widespread misinformation creates a major barrier to routine preventative care, with 47% of owners (equivalent to over 3 million people) admitting they hesitate to give their dogs regular parasite prevention.

5 Common Dog Parasite Myths Debunked

Myth 1: "Parasites Die Off in Winter"

The Fact: While some parasite activity slows down in cold weather, microclimates—such as heated homes, sheltered backyards, and dog parks—allow fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms to survive year-round. Heartworm, transmitted via mosquitoes, remains a continuous threat wherever vector insects find shelter indoors or near ambient warmth. Furthermore, 25% of Australians (approx. 1.8 million people) mistakenly believe they can control their pet's exposure to parasites, creating a dangerous false sense of security during cooler months.

Dr. Christopher Ng, Veterinary Operations Manager at Zoetis Australia, warns that parasite risk disappearing during winter is a dangerous belief: "Parasites remain a year-round risk, with dogs still exposed through backyards, on their daily walks, interactions with other animals, travel and in their local environment."

“Risk varies depending on factors such as geography, climate and lifestyle, which is why parasite prevention should be based on risk, not the season.”

Myth 2: "Natural Remedies Work Just as Well as Clinical Treatments"

The Fact: According to YouGov data, 11% of Australian dog owners mistakenly believe natural remedies work just as well as clinically proven treatments. However, veterinary clinical trials show that natural alternatives lack the proven efficacy required to protect against life-threatening threats like paralysis ticks or heartworm (for a complete breakdown of clinical protection methods, see our Australian Dog Tick Prevention Guide).

Myth 3: "You Only Need Treatment If Symptoms Are Visible"

The Fact: Approximately 13% of Australian dog owners (around 900,000 people) believe they only need to treat their dog if symptoms are visible. In reality, many parasites can be present and damaging a pet's internal organs long before any obvious physical symptoms appear.

Myth 4: "Dogs on Commercial Diets Aren't at Risk"

The Fact: 10% of owners believe their dog isn't at risk simply because they don’t eat a raw diet. While raw feeding continues to grow in popularity—as explored in our guide to Australia's raw dog food revolution—parasites like fleas, paralysis ticks, and heartworm are contracted through outdoor exposure, soil contact, and mosquito bites, making routine protection essential regardless of what is in your dog's bowl.

Myth 5: "Skipping Prevention Saves Money"

The Fact: Nearly half of Australian dog owners hesitate to treat their pets, citing cost as a major factor. Additionally, 11% fear prevention medication could harm their dog, while another 11% feel confused about which treatment best suits their pet's needs. However, skipping monthly care often backfires financially: Australian pet owners spend an average of $287 each time a pet requires veterinary treatment for an active parasite infestation, with severe cases costing thousands.

Real Experience: The Long-Term Impact of Puppy Parasites

For television presenter, model, and expecting first-time mum Erin Holland, the issue hit close to home when her two-year-old Siberian Husky, Skylar, contracted parasites as a puppy.

"Like many others, Skylar’s routine can change in winter," says Erin. "But after her experience with parasites as a puppy, I’m very conscious of being consistent with her care."

“Parasites affected her digestive health in ways we still manage today. It was confronting to learn that a parasite infestation can have long-term consequences if left untreated.”

As Erin prepares to welcome her first child, keeping Skylar protected with an all-in-one monthly chew (like Simparica Trio) gives her household peace of mind heading into winter.

How to Assess Your Dog's Risk

Because risk factors vary based on geography, local climate, and daily habits, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work:

1. Review Seasonal Habits: Check indoor environments and heated areas where fleas and larvae continue to thrive during winter.

2. Consult Your Vet: Discuss your dog's lifestyle to find an all-in-one preventative chew (such as Simparica Trio) or topical treatment suited to their weight and age.

3. Use Online Assessment Tools: Complete an online parasite risk assessment to identify specific exposure levels based on your location and daily walking routes.

Sources & References

1. YouGov / Zoetis Australia Survey (2026): Nationally representative consumer research survey of 1,000 Australian dog owners aged 18+ (Weighted by age, gender, and region; conducted March 13–18, 2026).
2. PetSure Knowledge Hub (2024): Late summer parasites: What every pet parent should know.

Explore More in Dog Health & Wellness

Keep your canine companion thriving year-round with these expert guides from our wellness library:

• Australian Dog Tick Prevention Guide: Essential Steps & Year-Round Care
• Heartworm Disease in Dogs: Warning Signs, Symptoms & Prevention
• Australia's Raw Dog Food Revolution: Benefits, Risks & Diets Explained
• Beyond the Chill: Holistic Winter Mobility & Care for Senior Dogs

TV Event: Pooches at Play Returns for Series 11 on Channel 10

Australia’s long-running pet lifestyle and education series, Pooches at Play, returns to national screens for its 11th season starting Saturday, 1 August 2026 at 1:00 pm on Channel 10.

Hosted by certified dog trainer, behaviourist, and pet nutrition specialist Lara Shannon, the new eight-part series marks more than a decade of the show providing practical, evidence-based advice on pet health, behaviour, safety, and welfare.

What’s On This Season

With an estimated 31.6 million pets now living in 73% of Australian households, Series 11 focuses heavily on navigating modern pet ownership—addressing cost-of-living pressures, declining adoption rates, and preventative healthcare.

Joined by a panel of Australian veterinary, behaviour, and health experts, Lara and her rescue dogs (Dynamite Darcy and Vindi) guide viewers through every stage of pet care, from puppyhood and adoption to caring for senior pets.

Host Lara Shannon with her beloved rescue duo—Vindi on the left and Dynamite Darcy on the right.

While dogs remain the main focus, the upcoming series also incorporates dedicated feline health and behaviour segments for cat owners.

Broadcast Schedule:

• Premiere: Saturdays at 1:00 pm on Channel 10 (Starting 1 August 2026)
• Encore Broadcasts: Sundays at 4:00 pm on 10 Drama
• Catch-Up Streaming: Available via 10.com.au

Series 11 Episode Guide & Highlights

Below is the complete weekly episode breakdown and featured breed profiles for the upcoming season:

• Episode 1 (1 August): Safe child and dog interactions, baking a dog birthday cake, achieving calmer walks, improving canine dental health, choosing practical winter dog apparel, mastering crate training, and a featured breed profile on the Shiba Inu.
• Episode 2: How calming supplements assist anxious pets, the critical importance of paralysis tick prevention, understanding dog body language and yawns, selecting the right dry food and bedding, a look at Sprint Dog racing, and a breed profile on the Yorkshire Terrier.
• Episode 3: What it means to be a "Next Level Pet Parent," grooming tips for senior dogs, what your dog's poop reveals about their internal health, the 3-3-3 Rule for rescue dogs, the benefits of titre testing, and a breed profile on the Miniature Dachshund.
• Episode 4: Managing car travel anxiety, common worms in cats, proper etiquette when greeting an unfamiliar dog, protecting long-term bone and joint health, canine health case studies, and a breed profile on the Japanese Spitz.
• Episode 5: Behind the scenes with retired Guide Dogs, essential puppy grooming tips, elimination diets explained, why dogs kick after toileting, proactive health screening, pet strollers, and a breed profile on the Corgi.
• Episode 6: All-season worm prevention in dogs, nutrition tips for longevity, the power of positive reinforcement and praise, keeping pets calm when visitors arrive, psychodermatology explained, scent work enrichment, and a breed profile on the Miniature Schnauzer.
• Episode 7: Choosing the right dog breed for your lifestyle, why rinsing dogs after swimming in salt/chlorine is vital, the benefits of novel proteins, supporting blind dogs, current shelter adoption trends, navigating senior pet end-of-life care, and a breed profile on the Afghan Hound.
• Episode 8: Managing veterinary care costs and community support programs, slow-cooked pet nutrition explained, place training made easy, calming nervous pets at the vet or groomer, natural approaches to skin health, animal welfare spotlight on Beagle Freedom Australia, and a breed profile on the Whippet.

About the Host

Lara Shannon is an Australian author, dog trainer, pet nutritionist, and animal welfare advocate. In addition to hosting Pooches at Play, she serves as an ambassador for Companion Animal Network Australia and Pets of the Homeless, and sits on the Animal Welfare League SA Board Sub-Committee.

Dogs Victoria Unveils $12M Transformation of KCC Park into Southern Hemisphere’s Largest Dedicated Dog Facility

Everyday dog lovers across Victoria are set to gain unprecedented access to a world-class canine paradise. In a landmark announcement, Dogs Victoria has unveiled plans for a massive $12 million expansion of KCC Park in Skye—transforming the iconic grounds into the Southern Hemisphere’s largest dedicated dog facility.

Scheduled to open in early 2027, the project marks a historic turning point for the venue. For the first time in KCC Park’s 44-year history, all 74 acres of the property will be unlocked for dog-related activities, opening the doors to everyday pet parents alongside traditional dog sports exhibitors and registered breeders.

Opening the Gates to Every Dog and Owner

At the heart of the expansion is a brand-new, community-focused recreation precinct and programme designed to connect Victorian dog owners with safe, purpose-built facilities, educational resources, and dog sports pathways.

The development will create a welcoming "gateway" into the world of Dogs Victoria, allowing everyday dog owners to access high-end facilities and social experiences previously unavailable to the broader public.

Dogs Victoria Chief Executive Kirk Edwards described the project as the most significant investment in canine recreation and community engagement ever undertaken by the organisation.

“For the first time in 44 years, we will be utilising all 74 acres of KCC Park for dog-related activities and opening new opportunities for dog owners across Melbourne and Victoria to become involved,” Mr Edwards said.

“This is about improving the wellbeing of dogs, supporting responsible dog ownership and creating a place where people and dogs can exercise, learn, socialise and participate together.”

What’s Coming to KCC Park?

Located in Skye (near Cranbourne), the revitalised 74-acre precinct is being purpose-built to cater to dogs of all sizes, temperaments, and energy levels. Upgrades announced for the development include:

• Six Purpose-Built Off-Lead Zones: Tailored exercise spaces designed specifically for small dogs, large dogs, agility practice, and dogs needing peaceful one-on-one time.
• 5km Walking Track & Trails: Scenic walking routes through open green space for daily exercise and sensory enrichment.
• Onsite Lifestyle Amenities: Plans for an onsite dog day care, professional grooming centre, dog-friendly café, and expanded dog sporting arenas.
• Education & Behaviour Support: Hands-on educational resources and professional training support designed to promote responsible pet ownership and strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners.

Introducing the Dogs Victoria Community Membership

In a major push to broaden the venue’s appeal, the physical expansion forms part of the new Dogs Victoria Community Membership programme—which will be open to everyone and any dog, regardless of breed or pedigree status.

Historically focused on pedigree breeders, conformation showing, and trial exhibitors, this new membership tier offers an accessible, affordable option for everyday dog lovers wanting to make use of the grounds.

Community Member Benefits Include:

• Access to secure off-lead spaces, walking tracks, and park amenities.
• Invitations to community events, social gatherings, and educational workshops.
• Exclusive brand rewards, retail discounts, and partner perks.
• A welcoming pathway into grassroots dog sports across Victoria (such as agility, obedience, trick dog training, and scent work).

Action in motion: A Schnauzer flies through a SprintDog trial at KCC Park in Skye. Photo: Pup Pix.

Looking Ahead to Early 2027

At its core, this landmark $12 million project supports Dogs Victoria’s ongoing commitment to canine health, behaviour education, and community connection—setting a new benchmark for public dog facilities across Australia.

Dogs Victoria confirmed that further information regarding membership tiers, access arrangements, and construction milestones will be released in the lead-up to the official early 2027 opening.

Stay tuned to Australian Dog Lover as we follow the progress of this ground-breaking development!

Victorian Pet Food Brand Freezes Prices for 12 Months Amid Cost-of-Living Crunch

Victorian fresh pet food brand 5 Hounds has announced a 12-month price freeze, committing to absorb rising production costs rather than passing them on to Australian dog owners.

The price guarantee, which came into effect on 1 July 2026, applies to both existing and new customers. The company confirmed it will cover surging expenses across raw ingredients, packaging, freight, and manufacturing.

Rising Expenses in the Pet Sector

The decision arrives as household budgets face ongoing pressure across the country, with pet care forming a major chunk of annual spending.

According to Animal Medicines Australia’s latest Pets in Australia report:

• 86% of pet owners report that pets positively impact their lives.
• Australians spend over $21 billion annually on pet care.
• Pet food alone accounts for 46% of that total expenditure.

The price lock also lands amid broader industry warnings. The Australian Food and Grocery Council recently highlighted mounting cost pressures across the entire food manufacturing sector, driven by energy, freight, and raw material inflation.

Founder’s Perspective: Putting Families Over Margins

Veterinarian and 5 Hounds founder Dr Will Maginness explained that the commitment was driven by feedback from thousands of dog owners over the past 18 months.

“Fresh feeding shouldn't become harder just because the cost of everything else is going up,” Dr Maginness said. “As a family-owned business, we get to make decisions based on what we believe is right – not what shareholders expect.”

“It would have been easy to pass our rising costs on. We'd much rather help families keep feeding their dogs fresh food than make it harder for our customers to stay with us. We know budgets are under pressure, so we've made a promise: no price increases for 12 months. It's our way of saying thank you for trusting us with your dogs.”

Relief for Everyday Dog Owners

Freddie (left) and Coconut.

For Western Australian pet owner Caroline Clarke—whose French Bulldogs, Coconut and Freddie, faced years of allergies and fussy eating—the guarantee provides welcome predictability.

"5 Hounds has been a game changer! We still can't believe there hasn't been one single bit of wastage. Their meals get eaten straight away with bowls licked clean. Coconut always skips for her meals now,” Clarke said.

"Knowing the price won't increase for the next 12 months means so much to our family. French Bulldogs can be costly to care for, and knowing I can keep feeding them food they love, which is good for them, is so comforting."

For Gold Coast pensioner Kathy Hogan, the Price Lock Guarantee makes it easier to budget for Buddy’s food.

“As an aged pensioner, every dollar counts. Buddy’s food is a significant expense for me, but keeping him healthy is one of my highest priorities,” she said.

Kathy said Buddy has experienced digestive problems, allergies, persistent foot licking, itchy skin and recurring ear infections for most of his life.

“When I weigh up the cost of feeding Buddy high-quality, nutritionally balanced food against the veterinary bills and medication costs we were facing, 5 Hounds has been well worth the investment,” she said.

“Seeing Buddy happier and more comfortable is priceless. Dr Will’s decision not to increase prices for 12 months genuinely makes a difference for people like me.”

The 12-month Price Lock Guarantee is currently active across the 5 Hounds product line.

For more information, visit 5hounds.com.au.

Related Reading & Guides

• Exploring seasonal health and whole-food support? Check out our Holistic Winter Care & Nutrition Guide for Dogs.
• Weighing up commercial diets vs. raw or fresh trends? Learn why vets warn about the latest pet food fads.
• Thinking about adding a Frenchie to your family? Read our full French Bulldog Breed Profile & Care Guide.

The Green Trap: Is Australia's Indoor Plant Obsession Putting Your Dog at Risk?

Australia has never been more pet-obsessed. According to Animal Medicines Australia’s Pets in Australia report, a staggering 73% of Australian households—representing 7.7 million homes—now share their lives with at least one pet.

At the same time, our love affair with indoor greenery is booming. The Australian indoor plant market was valued at $328.57 million in 2024 and is projected to skyrocket to $511 million by 2033.

But as Aussies fill their living spaces with leafy aesthetics, a hidden danger is quietly taking root. Many of the most popular houseplants—highly favoured by Millennials and Gen Z—are severely toxic to our four-legged family members, and the majority of pet parents have no idea.

A Birthday Bouquet Turns into a Midnight Emergency

Melbourne pet parent Daniel, 40, learned about these hidden dangers first-hand when a simple birthday bouquet nearly cost his cat, Harry, his life.

"My cat Harry was suddenly very interested in the bouquet of flowers I had received, and while I was talking with friends I looked over and he had his face buried in them," Daniel recalls.

"When I went to check what he was doing I noticed he was drooling excessively. The bouquet contained eucalyptus, which I hadn't realised was very toxic for cats. 

We took him to the vet straight away and thankfully he hadn't ingested anything so he was fine. But it was a close call." Petstock Head Vet, Dr. Gloria Ebeyer, says Daniel's quick thinking made all the difference.

"Eucalyptus is one of those plants people don't think twice about. It's in bouquets, wreaths, and homewares across Australia."

“For pets, even minor exposure can cause drooling, vomiting, and central nervous system depression. Act immediately rather than wait to see what happens.” — Dr. Gloria Ebeyer, Petstock Head Vet.

The Danger Hiding on Your Shelves (and Floors)

Dr. Gloria warns that she sees similar poisoning cases coming through clinic doors every day—and it isn't just raw plants that pose a threat.

“I once treated a dog who had a tendency to lick the floor," says Dr. Gloria. "He got very sick after his owner mopped using a eucalyptus floor cleaner. Like Daniel, the owner had no idea that eucalyptus was toxic and quickly switched it out for something less harmful.”

The core issue stems from current interior design trends. The very plants marketed as "low-maintenance" and "hard to kill" happen to be the most hazardous to curious paws.

"Pothos and devil's ivy are everywhere," Dr. Gloria adds. "What the store tag doesn't tell you is that ingestion can cause severe oral irritation, vomiting, and in some cases, kidney failure in cats and dogs."

The Plant Hit-List: Common Varieties to Avoid

If you have pets at home, Dr. Gloria flags these common household and garden varieties as high-risk:

• Lilies & Peace Lilies: Highly toxic
• Pothos | Devil’s Ivy: Ingestion causes intense oral irritation
• Monstera (Swiss Cheese Plant): Chewing them causes intense burning
• Philodendron: Symptoms include swelling of the lips
• Aloe Vera: Toxic to both cats and dogs
• Eucalyptus: Highly toxic. Dogs and cats cannot metabolise

What to Do If You Suspect Plant Poisoning

When it comes to plant ingestion, Dr. Gloria emphasizes that time is your most critical asset.

"Don't wait to see if symptoms resolve on their own," she warns. "If you suspect your cat or dog has eaten any part of a toxic plant, contact your vet immediately. The sooner we can intervene, the better the outcome."

Key warning signs to watch out for include:

• Excessive drooling or salivation
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Lethargy, weakness, or loss of appetite
• Difficulty breathing or walking
• Seizures (in severe cases)

Safe & Stylish: Pet-Friendly Green Alternatives

Fortunately, pet owners don't have to choose between a beautiful, leafy home and a safe one.

" There are gorgeous, low-maintenance plants that pose absolutely no risk to your pets," says Dr. Gloria. "It’s simply about knowing what to look for before you buy."

If you are looking to green up your space safely, Dr. Gloria recommends these pet-secure alternatives:

• Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
• Boston Fern
• Calathea
• Parlour Palm
• Peperomia

For more expert advice, resources, or to speak with a qualified veterinarian, visit the Petstock Vet Website.

Grow a Greener, Safer Space: More Resources

Want to expand your plant knowledge or restructure your backyard safely? Explore our complementary, deep-dive guides to pet-friendly living:

• Common Plants Poisonous to Your Dogs
  Our ultimate master list covering both indoor and outdoor garden hazards, plus common backyard design dangers you might not expect. Perfect if you want a comprehensive index of what to avoid outside the living room.
• 12 Pet-Friendly Indoor Plants for Your Home
  Ready to replace your toxic greenery? This curated list spotlights a dozen stunning, completely safe indoor plant varieties that thrive in Australian conditions so you can design without the stress.
• Tips for a Pet-Friendly Garden and Plants
  Taking the plant obsession outdoors? Learn how to landscape a backyard that looks beautiful while actively catering to active paws, covering safe digging zones, secure fencing, and dog-hardy plant choices.

Meet Arca Lab: The Australian Dog Toothpaste Born in a Home Garage

If you've ever tried to brush your dog's teeth only to be met with squirming, side-eye, and a dramatic exit, you're not alone. You are exactly who Tommy had in mind when he launched Arca Lab, Australia's newest dog dental care brand.

With the launch of Watermelon Burst, an enzymatic dog toothpaste that's as fruity as it sounds, Arca Lab is on a mission to make daily brushing something dogs actually look forward to. And it all began in a home garage, with two very opinionated dogs.

The Story: Two Dogs, One Problem, and a Lot of Testing

Cherry and Bun were the unlikely co-founders of Arca Lab. Cherry is a Mini Dachshund with strong introverted tendencies. Bun is a Pembroke Welsh Corgi with the opposite energy entirely. Together, they were Tommy's crash course in the challenges of dog dental care, because getting either of them to sit still for a toothbrush was, by his own admission, a daily battle.

"Like many dog owners, I wanted to stay on top of their dental health without turning brushing into a stressful experience," Tommy explains. "If you've ever tried to brush a dog's teeth while they twist away or look at you like you've completely betrayed them, you'll understand."

Determined to find a solution, Tommy spent months testing different approaches, trialling formulas with dogs of all shapes and sizes. One thing that struck him early on was the sheer sameness of what was already on the market. 

“Every dog toothpaste was some version of beef, chicken, or pork," he says. "You'd spend two minutes brushing their teeth and their breath would just smell like dinner.” — Tommy, Founder of Arca Lab

"That's not exactly the fresh, clean result you were hoping for."

The breakthrough came when he leaned into fruit instead. Fruity toothpastes made brushing noticeably more positive, and computationally, left dogs' breath smelling genuinely fresh rather than like their last meal. Time after time across his testing, watermelon came out as the clear favourite. Dogs loved it, and the result was exactly what Tommy had been after: a toothpaste that made dogs want to open their mouths and actually left them smelling like it had done the job.

What started as a fix for two stubborn dogs at home is now a proudly Australian-owned and operated brand, built for every dog parent who knows the dental health struggle is real.

Watermelon Burst: What Makes It Different

Watermelon Burst isn't just a novelty flavour slapped on a standard formula. The toothpaste is built around Bromelain, a natural enzyme derived from pineapple that works at a biological level to help break down the protein bonds holding dental plaque together.

Supporting the Bromelain are two additional active ingredients: Persimmon Extract (Diospyros Kaki Fruit Extract), which supports oral freshness and gum balance, and Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate), which helps protect gum tissue and provides antioxidant support.

The formula is also free from a long list of ingredients you don't want near your dog's mouth: no artificial colours, no sulphates (SLS or SLES), no parabens, no silica, no triclosan, and no gluten. It's non-foaming and completely vegan, making it suitable for all dog breeds and sizes.

Every order of Watermelon Burst also includes a complimentary toothbrush, so you can start your dog's dental routine from day one without needing to source anything extra.

It's also worth considering the cost comparison. The average pack of dental sticks retails around $18.95 for 7, which works out to roughly $2.70 per stick. Used daily, that's close to $19 a week, around $82 a month, and nearly $985 a year!

A single bottle of Watermelon Burst at $32.00 covers months of daily brushing, making toothpaste a significantly more economical way to stay on top of your dog's dental health without the ongoing per-use cost.

On the sustainability front, the airless pump bottle, label, and cap are all made from polypropylene (PP [5]), which is accepted in most kerbside recycling bins across Australia, including in NSW. Arca Lab also provides a detailed recycling guide on their website, walking customers through exactly what can and can't be recycled from the packaging.

And when it comes to giving back, Arca Lab has baked purpose directly into every purchase. 1% of every order is donated to a dog welfare non-profit of your choice, selected at checkout, at no extra cost to you. Customers can direct their contribution to one of four partner organisations: Guide Dogs Australia (empowering independence), SMART Animal Sanctuary & Rehoming Centre (finding loving homes), Dog Rescue Newcastle (rescuing the abandoned), or Project Underdog Rescue (providing vital care to help dogs thrive). 

As Tommy puts it: "Every bottle of toothpaste you buy helps another dog in need. Now that's something to smile about."

Tommy's Top Tips: How to Build a Daily Brushing Routine That Actually Sticks

Having worked through the learning curve with Cherry and Bun first-hand, Tommy has a few practical tips for dog parents just getting started:

1. Let them taste it first. Before the brush goes anywhere near your dog's teeth, let them sniff and lick the toothpaste on their own terms. A flavour they genuinely enjoy, like watermelon, makes this first step much easier.

2. Find a position that works for both of you. Comfort matters. Choose a relaxed spot where you can easily reach your dog's mouth without either of you feeling stressed or crowded.

3. Start small and use gentle, circular motions. Focus on the outside of the teeth first, working in small circles and paying extra attention to the gum line, where plaque and tartar tend to build up most.

4. Don't chase perfection, chase consistency. "It won't be perfect the first time, and that's completely fine," says Tommy. "Daily consistency is far more valuable than perfect technique, especially when you're just starting out."

5. Always end on a positive note. Offer fresh water after each session, then follow up with plenty of praise or their favourite treat. Making brush time feel like a reward rather than a chore is what turns it from a daily battle into a daily routine.

Meet Arca Lab in Person

Arca Lab has recently been out and about at events, most recently at the Street Paws Festival, where the response from dog owners was overwhelming. 

“Hundreds of curious pups and their humans stopped by the stall to give Watermelon Burst a try, and let's just say the dogs did most of the convincing!” — Tommy, Founder of Arca Lab

If you'd like to experience it for yourself, Arca Lab will be returning as a stallholder at upcoming local events. It's the perfect opportunity to meet the team, watch your dog react to the toothpaste in real time, and ask any questions you have about getting started with a brushing routine. 

Keep an eye on their Instagram @arcalab_ for upcoming event announcements and dates.

• 26 July - Street Paws Festival, Leichhardt Bowlo, Lilyfield

Price & Where to Buy

Arca Lab Watermelon Burst Dog Toothpaste is available exclusively online at arcalab.com.au.

• RRP: $32.00 (one-time purchase).
• Subscribe & Save: $25.60 (20% off, with flexible delivery options up to every 10 weeks).
• Dog Toothbrushes (available in Sky Blue, Crisp Green, and Orange Cream): $9.99 each.
• Free shipping on orders over $50.
• Launch offer: Use code ARCALAB10 for 10% off your first order.

Arca Lab is an Australian-owned and operated brand. 

For more information, visit arcalab.com.au or follow along on Instagram @arcalab_ & on Facebook.