Our Guide to the Best Small Dog Accessories Australia

Updated 24 April 2025

Essentials for Your Fuzzy Friend

Welcoming a new dog into your home is a joyous occasion. Their playful antics, unwavering loyalty, and boundless love quickly become integral parts of our lives.

To ensure they lead a happy and fulfilling life, providing them with the right accessories is paramount. From collars to beds and everything in between, these accessories not only enhance their comfort but also contribute to their overall well-being. From the moment you bring a puppy home, dog ownership can feel like one long trip to the pet store for supplies and accessories.

Here is our list of dog essentials to consider, with some extras that pet owners find useful.

Small Dog Collars and Leashes

The quintessential accessory for any small dog is a collar. Collars hold identification tags, provide the means for leash attachment, and give you something to grab if necessary.

When choosing a dog collar for your small dog, opt for one that is lightweight and appropriately sized to ensure comfort and safety.

There are various types available, including buckle collars, martingale collars, and harnesses with built-in collars. Each serves a unique purpose, so select the one that best suits your dog’s needs.

Aside from dog leash attachment, and a place to keep council and dog tags, collars can also be fashionable accessories. They come in a plethora of colours, patterns, and materials, allowing you to personalize your dog’s look while keeping them safe and secure.

Choose your dog’s leash with your comfort in mind. Leashes come in varying lengths, materials, and styles. Consider your dog’s behaviour when selecting the right leash for them. Bear in mind that there are sometimes council restrictions on the length of a leash used in a public place.

Small Dog Harness

For small dogs prone to slipping out of their collars, a harness provides a secure alternative.

Harnesses distribute pressure evenly across the chest, reducing the risk of injury during walks. They are especially beneficial for dogs with delicate necks or those prone to pulling.

Additionally, harnesses offer added security during car rides. Many harnesses come with seatbelt attachments, ensuring your small dog remains safe and restrained while travelling. This added safety measure can prevent accidents and injuries in the event of sudden stops or collisions.

Soft and Supportive Dog Beds

Dogs spend most of their time sleeping, so providing them with a comfortable bed is crucial for their health and well-being. There are many types of dog beds available on the market, from simple mats to luxurious memory foam beds.

When choosing a dog bed for your small dog, consider their size and sleeping habits. Some small dogs may prefer enclosed spaces, while others may enjoy sprawling out on a plush surface.

Whatever type of bed you choose, make sure it provides adequate support to promote healthy joints and muscles.

In addition to traditional dog beds, there are also elevated dog beds that provide a cool and comfortable sleeping surface for warm weather or outdoor use. These beds are also ideal for dogs with joint issues as they provide extra support and comfort.

When choosing a bed, consider factors such as size, comfort, washability, fabric, and quality.

Removable, machine-washable covers are ideal for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene. Additionally, consider features such as pillow-edged designs, which provide extra support and comfort for your dog.

Our small dog loves his pillow-edged bed, as he can rest his head on the raised edge like a pillow, promoting better sleep and relaxation.

Dog Crates for Small Dogs

Crates provide a safe and secure space for your small dog, whether at home or on the go. They serve as a cosy retreat where your dog can feel comfortable and secure.

When selecting a crate, choose one that fits the size of your dog. They should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Each type of crate has its advantages, so consider your dog’s needs, preferences and behaviours when choosing from wire crates, plastic crates, and soft-sided crates. 

Crates are also valuable tools for house training and behaviour management. Proper crate training can help prevent destructive behaviours and provide your dog with a sense of routine and security.

Bark Collar for Small Dogs

In Australia, the RSPCA recommends against the use of bark collars. These devices deliver aversive stimuli such as citronella spray or electric shocks in response to barking behaviour.

The RSPCA opposes the use of bark collars due to the potential for harm and the lack of evidence supporting their effectiveness as a training tool. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement techniques to address excessive barking behaviour. For more information on humane training methods, visit the RSPCA website.

Small Dog Muzzles

Muzzles are tools used to prevent biting or chewing behaviours in dogs. They can be useful in situations where your small dog may feel anxious or stressed, such as during veterinary visits or grooming sessions.

When selecting a muzzle for your dog, choose one that is appropriately sized and allows for comfortable breathing and panting.

Nail Clippers for Small Dogs

Regular nail maintenance is essential for your small dog’s comfort and health. Long nails can cause discomfort and may lead to injuries or deformities over time.

Invest in a pair of clippers designed specifically for their size and nail type. Take care to clip your dog’s nails correctly, avoiding the quick and trimming only small amounts at a time to prevent injury.

Dog Grooming Brush

Regular grooming is vital for your small dog’s hygiene and well-being. Whether they have short or long hair, regular brushing helps remove dirt, tangles, and loose fur while stimulating the skin and promoting healthy circulation.

Choose a grooming brush suited to your dog’s coat type, such as slicker brushes for long-haired breeds or bristle brushes for short-haired breeds.

Establishing a grooming routine not only keeps your dog looking and feeling their best but also strengthens the bond between you.

Dog Toys

Toys are essential for your small dog’s mental and physical stimulation. They provide entertainment, relieve boredom, and encourage exercise and play.

There is a wide variety of toys available. Fetch toys, puzzle toys, balls, Kongs, and treat-filled toys encourage play and provide mental stimulation. Other playthings help calm a small pup and even older dogs, such as lick mats, snuffle toys, chew toys and the odd plush toy to hug (or tear apart).

Experiment with different types to discover which ones your dog enjoys most. Rotate toys regularly to keep things interesting and prevent boredom. Engaging in interactive play with your dog strengthens your bond and enhances their overall well-being

A Few Extra Accessories

• Kennels: Not all small dogs are “inside dogs”. The outdoors type may appreciate a kennel with good ventilation, which is of appropriate size and well insulated against both cold and heat.
• Dog gate: many pet parents invest in a baby gate to block off areas of the house they do not want their puppy playing in. Dog gates are also useful if you have other pets or even children who need to be kept separated from your dog.

• Dog car seats and restraints:  Car rides can be dangerous for small dogs, especially if they are not restrained. A harness and seatbelt attachment, a tether with a harness clip for riding in the boot, or a dog-specific car seat can ensure your pup stays safe during travel.
• Daily basics: We are sure you will have these covered, but here are some routine items to collect:
  • Poop bags – essential for responsible dog owners.
  • Food and water bowls – choose safe, sturdy materials such as stainless steel, melamine or ceramic that are easy to clean.
  • Containers – keep treats and food safe from pests and separate from the family food. Keep dog medicines such as worming tablets, and flea and tick medication in a safe place, separate from the family medication.

Conclusion

In conclusion, providing your small dog with the right accessories enhances their comfort, safety, and well-being. From collars and harnesses to beds and toys, each accessory serves a unique purpose in enriching your dog’s life. By investing in quality accessories and incorporating them into your daily routine, you can ensure that your small dog leads a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life by your side.