Australians are becoming increasingly mindful of caring for their pets. Over 69% of the population owns at least one pet, equating to around 28.7 million pets across 6.9 million households, with dogs taking the lead as the nation’s favourite companion.
Over half of Australian households are now without children and embracing single and child-free lifestyles. In this shift, pets have taken on a greater role, offering more than just companionship. They’re increasingly seen as valued members of the family.
More than 73% of pet owners report significant improvements in their mental health as a result of having a pet. Studies show that pets can help reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness while also boosting mood and providing a sense of purpose through the routine and responsibility of care.
Holistic approach
The rise in pet ownership has fuelled a growing shift towards more conscious, health-focused pet care. Consumers are increasingly seeking products that reflect their values – natural, ethical, and thoughtfully formulated options that support overall wellbeing. Those who prioritise holistic health in their own lives naturally extend that approach to their pets.
For retailers, this presents a valuable opportunity to meet demand with purposeful products that resonate with modern pet owners.
Eco-alternatives
Thoughtfully crafted with pure essential oils, Simply Clean and Koala Eco offer safe, effective, and natural pet care solutions. Both brands are proudly free from phosphates, palm oil, and synthetic fragrances, making them a trusted choice for health-conscious pet owners.
Simply Clean’s Lemon Myrtle Pet Shampoo is free from harmful sulfates and parabens, making it ideal for pets with sensitive skin. Enriched with lemon myrtle oil, which is known for its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, it helps soothe dry paws, support skin healing, and even calm anxious pets.
Koala Eco’s Marjoram & Rosalina Dog Wash is a plant-based, non-toxic formula powered by Australian essential oils. Marjoram and Rosalina offer natural anti-inflammatory benefits, making this wash particularly effective for gently cleansing and soothing irritated skin.
Natural results
Purposefully formulated to hydrate dry skin and deliver a professional finish, Giovanni’s Professional Pet Care shampoos and conditioners are hypoallergenic and designed to smooth the coat while eliminating odours. Infused with natural botanicals and free from harsh chemicals and artificial dyes, this range offers a gentle yet effective grooming experience.
Enriched with an organic aloe vera base and restorative herbal extracts, Lemon Myrtle’s Dog Shampoo is enriched with a natural antifungal agent and features a strong, refreshing aroma. Lemon Myrtle leaves fur and skin feeling fresh, clean, and silky soft, while also soothing skin irritated by grass seeds, insect bites, and common conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.
We're a nation of pet owners. That's what the 2020 Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey found. 62% of Australians own a pet, with the majority, 72%, owning a dog. Other Animal Medicines Australia (AMA) research has shown that the number of pet owners could now be as high as 69%. They estimate that more than one million additional dogs have taken up residence in Australian households since 2019.
Along with these high and increasing numbers of pet ownership, research from IbisWorld revealed that expenditure on pets has increased over the last five years, specifically calling out human-grade pet food as a growth area. The AMA research referenced above found that dog owners have spent $20.5 billion on their pets in the last year.
Another trend identified by the IbisWorld research is related to health and wellness with more and more pet owners adopting a holistic approach to their pet care. This is a sentiment echoed by Dr Edward Bassingthwaighte, a veterinarian of more than 20 years with a specialisation in holistic practices.
“The interest in holistic pet care is growing just as rapidly as it is in the human sector,” says Dr Bassingthwaighte. “People who take an interest in holistic care for themselves then naturally want to do that for their animals too.”
At Unique Health Products, we proudly stock a range of natural pet products and brands. We've included these products below to help you cater to the growing trend towards holistic pet care.
PLANT-BASED PET FOOD
Food for dogs, not dog food. That's the guiding principle behind the Rascals Treats brand. The plant-based range includes a Meal Topper and a selection of Dog Treats, each with a fun name and a nourishing list of ingredients.
The human-grade, wholefood products are also free from common allergens - wheat, nuts and grains.
The premium black packaging is also home compostable, adding appeal to customers looking to buy sustainable brands.
Hemp Seed Oil Capsules With Turmeric by Essential Hemp may also fit the bill as a product that your customers can use for themselves and their pets.
Dr Bassingthwaighte says that “turmeric is an awesome herbal medicine for dogs, particularly for older animals. The hemp seed oil also has benefits such as omega fatty acids.”
DOG SHAMPOO BARS
With an established reputation as a leader in producing plastic-free Solid Bars, Ethique also has a range designed specifically for dogs. With two shampoos - Bow Wow Bar and Shampooch (for sensitive pups) - and the Pawfector Conditioner, the products are available in both mini and full sizes.
With high-quality, natural ingredients such as tea tree, neem, oatmeal, coconut oil, flaxseed, cocoa butter and lemongrass, the Solid Bars are highly effective, plastic-free, gentle and suitable for dogs and horses. The benefit of a Solid Bar when washing pets is that it removes the fuss of messing about with bottles, lids and pumps to make bath time that much easier.
The Australian Natural Soap Co also produces a Dog Shampoo Bar. Made with saponified rice bran oil, saponified coconut oil, saponified castor oil, eucalyptus oil, lavender oil and peppermint oil, it leaves pooches with a soft and shiny coat.
COMPOSTABLE WASTE BAGS
The Biotuff Dog Waste Bags are an eco-friendly alternative to regular dog waste bags as they are both biodegradable and home compostable. The bags are made from GMO-free, renewable, plant-based material and are an environmentally-friendly alternative to divert organic waste from landfill.
The bags are leakproof with superior puncture and heat resistance. They have a soft touch and come in packs of 60 bags (4 rolls with 15 bags each). There is a pack available with a dispenser for first time purchasers as well as refill packs for repeat buyers.
A NOD TO DOGS
For consumers who want to wear their love of dogs with pride, there are two animal-inspired Bamboo Sock styles from Funky Sock Co such as Mischievous Pugs and Sausage Dogs in Buns. Using designs from local artists, the socks make a statement while still being comfortable and breathable, as they are made with high-quality bamboo fibres.
There are also two dog-inspired prints available in the Retrokitchen 100% Biodegradable Dishcloth range - Dogs as well as Dogs & Cats. The collection includes a nod to many other animals, such as cats, fish, penguins and rabbits, for animal-loving, eco-conscious consumers.
STOCK UP ON NATURAL PET PRODUCTS
We're proud to stock all these natural pet products and more in our online store. You can order online 24/7 or give our friendly sales team a call on 1800 787 904. If you don't yet have an account with us, register for a wholesale account today!
