International Dog Day: The Gear Every Aussie Pup (and Parent) Needs

International Dog Day (August 26th) is officially wagging its way back, and what better excuse to spoil the four-legged family members who give us unconditional love, stolen sandwiches, and muddy pawprints on freshly mopped floors?

With over 40% of Australian households owning a dog, our pups aren’t just pets – they’re family. And like all family members, they deserve the best when it comes to safety, enrichment, and adventure. This year, it’s not just about extra belly rubs. Brands like Kurgo and PetSafe are stepping up with clever, science-backed gear designed to make life easier (and safer) for both dogs and their humans.

Sarah Ambler, Director of PetSafe Brands ANZ, sums it up perfectly:
“As leaders in pet safety, Kurgo and PetSafe offer expertly designed products to keep your dog protected, engaged, and comfortable, making every adventure safer and more fun.”

So whether you’re a family of road-trippers, backyard adventurers, or simply trying to keep the kids and the pup hydrated at the same time, here’s our round-up of products that are making tails wag across Australia.

For Road Trips: Kurgo Wander Half Dog Hammock

Long car rides can be chaotic when you’ve got kids and dogs in the mix. The Kurgo Wander Half Dog Hammock ($133.89) is a sanity-saver.

It’s designed to turn half your back seat into a safe, cosy spot for your dog – while leaving the other half free for humans. Think of it as the ultimate car-pool compromise: pup stays secure and comfortable, while the kids still have room for their snacks and Minecraft chatter.

The hammock attaches easily to all four headrests and has five extra adjustment points for added security. Translation? No more fur on school uniforms, and no more pups trying to climb into the driver’s seat mid-trip.

For Everyday Walks: Quantum 6-in-1 Dog Leash

Every parent knows that multi-tasking is the name of the game. Why shouldn’t your dog leash get in on the act? The Quantum 6-in-1 Leash ($51.99) is a genius little invention that adapts to six different styles – long lead, short training lead, hands-free around your waist, and more.

Fully extended, it’s a generous 183cm. Clip it down and you’ve got a 122cm training lead. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of leashes – perfect if your pup is still learning not to lunge after every passing ibis.

For Car Safety: Direct to Seat Belt Dog Tether

We wouldn’t dream of letting our kids ride without a seatbelt. The same rule should apply to dogs. The Kurgo Direct to Seat Belt Dog Tether ($28.99) keeps your pup safely secured by clipping directly into the female end of your car’s seatbelt. Attach the other end to their harness, and voilà – instant peace of mind.

No more pups pacing the backseat or trying to climb into the picnic basket. It’s simple, secure, and an absolute non-negotiable for families on the go.

For Hydration: PetSafe® Outlast™ 1.7 Litre Pumpless Fountain

Hydration is as crucial for pups as it is for kids (and let’s face it, they’re both equally prone to ignoring their water bottles). The PetSafe Outlast Pumpless Fountain ($143.99) is a total game-changer.

Forget fiddly pumps that clog and break. This clever design uses HydroSpin™ technology to circulate water without the usual maintenance headaches. It’s dishwasher-safe, easy to clean, and keeps water fresh and inviting — especially helpful for fussy drinkers who turn their nose up at a stagnant bowl.

For Mealtime: PetSafe® 5 Meal Pet Feeder

If you’ve ever been late home and felt that pang of guilt because the dog missed dinner, the PetSafe 5 Meal Pet Feeder ($121.89) is your new best friend.

With one meal ready to go and four more pre-programmed using a digital timer, this feeder rotates meals at the same time each day. It’s perfect for busy families juggling school pick-ups, sports, and work — because no matter what the calendar throws at you, your dog’s feeding schedule stays consistent.

Bonus: the kids love watching it rotate, so you might even get a hand with “feeding the dog” for once.

Why It Matters

Dogs thrive on consistency, stimulation, and safety. Just like kids, they need structure and enrichment to stay happy and healthy. Products like these aren’t about spoiling them — they’re about meeting their needs in ways that make life smoother for the whole family.

Whether it’s securing them in the car, giving them fresh water, or helping them feel part of the action without chaos, Kurgo and PetSafe gear is designed with real families in mind.

Final Word

This International Dog Day, skip the squeaky toy aisle and think bigger. From smarter feeding to safer road trips, these products prove that caring for our dogs doesn’t just make them happier — it makes our family life calmer, safer, and a whole lot more fun.

Because let’s be real: when the dog’s happy, everyone’s happy.