Little Universe is a 100% dual certified organic medicinal mushroom extract supplement formulated specifically for dogs — the last product personally approved by Augustine before she passed, and a tribute to her legacy. Made from seven mushroom extracts and one mushroom powder, all sourced from the fruiting body of each mushroom (not mycelium), Little Universe is formulated around extraction ratios and active Beta-Glucan content rather than bulk weight. The overall active Beta-Glucan content of the formula is 16.25% — a meaningful measure of quality that most mushroom powders cannot match, because the body cannot absorb Beta-Glucans effectively from unextracted powders regardless of how high they test on paper.
Dual certified organic with both ACO (Australian Certified Organic) and USDA. Made under and governed by human food standards. No excipients, stabilisers, or synthetics. The nutritional density is high enough that dogs need only a small daily amount — 1 tsp is approximately 1.7g.
Usage & safety notes.
For fussy eaters, build up to the recommended amount over 4 weeks — start at one quarter of the dose and increase by one quarter each week. Mix into food with Raw Coconut Oil or water. Use within 3 months of opening. Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry place away from sunlight below 30°C. Not for human consumption as a remedy. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
The Seven Mushroom Extracts
Turkey Tail 12:1 Extract — one of the most studied medicinal mushrooms in the world, Turkey Tail is widely associated with immune support. Rich in polysaccharides including PSK and PSP, it is traditionally used to support the body's natural defences. The 12:1 ratio means 12kg of mushrooms were used to produce 1kg of extract.
Lion's Mane 8:1 Dual Extract — associated with nerve and brain health, Lion's Mane contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which have been studied for their potential to support cognitive function, nerve regeneration, and mental clarity. Dual extraction ensures both water-soluble and alcohol-soluble compounds are captured.
Reishi 15:1 Dual Extract — often called the mushroom of immortality, Reishi is an adaptogenic mushroom used to support the body's response to stress, cardiovascular health, and immune regulation. The 15:1 ratio and dual extraction make this one of the most potent forms of Reishi available.
Maitake 8:1 Extract — traditionally associated with immune regulation and metabolic health. Maitake contains beta-glucans that may support normal blood sugar regulation and overall immune system function.
Cordyceps 8:1 Extract — traditionally used to support energy, stamina, and respiratory health. Cordyceps is widely used in performance contexts for its potential to support oxygen utilisation and endurance.
Shiitake 8:1 Extract — contributes to cardiovascular health and contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds. Also a source of eritadenine, associated with healthy cholesterol regulation.
Chaga 8:1 Dual Extract — exceptionally rich in antioxidants, Chaga is used to combat oxidative stress and support overall vitality and longevity. Dual extraction captures both the water-soluble polysaccharides and the alcohol-soluble triterpenoids.
Reishi Powder — whole fruiting body powder included alongside the Reishi extract to provide the full spectrum of naturally occurring compounds.
Ingredients
Source: Augustine Approved. All ingredients 100% dual certified organic (ACO & USDA). Fruiting body only — no mycelium.
Extracts: Turkey Tail 12:1, Lion's Mane 8:1 (dual), Reishi 15:1 (dual), Maitake 8:1, Cordyceps 8:1, Shiitake 8:1, Chaga 8:1 (dual). Powder: Reishi.
No excipients, stabilisers, or synthetics. Active Beta-Glucan content: 16.25%.
How to Use
Mix into food at every meal. 1 tsp is approximately 1.7g. The nutritional density of Little Universe is such that even half the recommended amount delivers meaningful benefit. For fussy eaters, build up gradually — start at one quarter of the recommended amount and increase by one quarter every 7 days over 4 weeks.
As a guide, the concentration of nutrients in Little Universe is equivalent to what is recommended for adult humans at 1 teaspoon per day. For dogs, use body weight and the product label's feeding chart to determine the correct daily amount.
Extract vs Powder — Why It Matters
The body cannot absorb Beta-Glucans effectively from raw mushroom powders — the cell walls of mushrooms are made of chitin, which humans and dogs cannot digest. Extraction (using hot water or dual hot water and alcohol) breaks down the cell walls and makes the active compounds bioavailable. A raw mushroom powder may test higher for total Beta-Glucans in a laboratory, but the active, absorbable Beta-Glucan content is far lower than a proper extract. Little Universe uses extraction ratios ranging from 8:1 to 15:1 — meaning 8 to 15kg of mushrooms were used to produce every 1kg of extract.
Storage
Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry place away from sunlight below 30°C. Use within 3 months of opening. Refrigeration is acceptable.
100% Dual Certified Organic
Dual certified organic with ACO and USDA. Made under and governed by human food standards. No excipients, stabilisers, synthetics, fillers, or additives. Fruiting body only. Made in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why fruiting body only — and not mycelium?
The fruiting body is the above-ground part of the mushroom — the part that contains the highest concentration of beta-glucans and other active compounds. Mycelium is the root network of the fungus, typically grown on grain substrate, which dilutes the active mushroom content with starch. Augustine Approved uses fruiting body only to ensure the highest possible potency and purity in every serving.
Is Little Universe suitable for cats?
Little Universe is formulated primarily for dogs. Some retailers note it as also suitable for cats — consult your veterinarian for cat-specific guidance on dosing before introducing mushroom supplements to a feline diet.
Can I use Little Universe alongside SuperBoost and Faith's Cleanse & Detox?
Yes. Little Universe is designed to complement the rest of the Augustine Approved range. For fussy eaters, introduce the supplements one at a time — SuperBoost first, then Faith's Cleanse & Detox, then Little Universe — allowing a few days between each introduction.
Why does it say 16.25% active Beta-Glucan content?
Beta-Glucans are the primary active compounds in medicinal mushrooms, associated with immune modulation and other health benefits. The 16.25% active Beta-Glucan content refers to the bioavailable, extractable Beta-Glucans — the form the body can actually absorb and use. This is a meaningful quality benchmark that raw mushroom powders typically cannot achieve.