Eat, Sleep And Play Sustainably With Your Dog

2025-01-07



How Your Dog Can Help Save the Planet

While much of the focus on environmental impact tends to be on human activities, it’s important to remember that our dogs play a role too! With over 5.5 million pet dogs in Australia, each consuming around 5.5 million meals of meat daily and producing just as many waste contributions, our furry friends can either benefit or harm the planet depending on the choices we make. Let’s take a look at some easy ways to make your dog’s lifestyle a bit more eco-friendly.

Food

You might be surprised to learn that your dog’s diet accounts for up to 30% of the environmental damage caused by animal production (B. Schildgen, 2018). This includes the use of land, water, fossil fuels, and phosphates to produce the meat that forms the bulk of your dog’s meals. Interestingly, different types of meat come with varying levels of environmental impact. Here’s a ranking of common dog foods from most eco-friendly to least:

  1. Chicken
  2. Fish
  3. Pork
  4. Beef
  5. Lamb

To make a positive impact on the environment, consider these three simple tips:

  1. Opt for meats labeled Free Range, Organic, or Pasture Fed to reduce the strain on the land where your dog’s food comes from.
  2. Inquire at your local pet shop about kibble refill services to reduce unnecessary packaging waste.
  3. Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your dog’s diet. This not only benefits the environment but also contributes to your dog’s overall health. Just be sure to check that the foods are safe for dogs!

At Doggyecon, we offer a variety of all-natural, preservative-free treats for your dog, packaged in recyclable materials. Next time you need a training snack, grab some  Roast Chicken and reward your dog with something both delicious and eco-friendly.



Sleep

When selecting a sustainable dog bed, two things should be top of mind: durability and the material used. If your dog is tough on bedding, a long-lasting bed could be more eco-friendly than one made from eco-friendly textiles that get destroyed quickly. On the other hand, if your dog loves comfort, you can consider eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton or hemp. Additionally, upcycling can be a creative and cost-effective way to give your dog a cozy bed. For example, a second-hand toddler mattress works great for large dogs, or old clothes can be repurposed into a soft bed for smaller or anxious pups.




Playtime

When it comes to eco-friendly dog toys, you’ve probably come across terms like “natural,” “non-toxic,” and “recycled.” But what do they really mean, and how can you choose the best toys for your dog and the planet? Similar to choosing dog beds, consider your dog’s playstyle. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, selecting a durable toy may be more sustainable in the long run than opting for one made of eco-friendly fabric that wears out quickly. Look for toys made from recycled materials or consider products that serve multiple purposes. For example, Doggyecon’s Crunch & Cuddle dog toys are made from GRS-certified recycled plastic and can be used in multiple ways: fetch, tug-of-war, or as a comfort toy filled with soft clothing. Choosing toys that have several uses reduces the number of toys needed, helping you maintain both sustainability and your dog’s enrichment.


Living Sustainably with Your Dog

Living sustainably with your dog doesn’t require drastic changes. Small, thoughtful decisions in your dog’s daily routine can make a big difference. It’s the little choices we make every day that ultimately have the most profound impact on our environment. We hope these tips inspire you to explore more eco-friendly ways to live with your dog while being kind to the planet.

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