11 Top Ways To Easily Reduce Your Dog's Carbon Pawprint

Updated on November 14. 2023

Every being that inhabits our planet affects it in some way. Human beings and our advances have brought about all kinds of changes, some good and some quite bad. Do you want to reduce the carbon footprint of your dog? We tell you the best ways to minimize the carbon pawprint.

Top 3 To Reduce The Carbon Footprint Of Your Dog

If we work together, we can change the world. Discover the best ways to reduce your dog's carbon pawprint.

1. Always Pick Up Your Dog's Poop

Dog poop contains pathogens that are harmful to human health. If you don't pick it up, those microorganisms can end up in lakes, rivers, ponds, or any other water supply.

2. Use Dog Poop Bags That Are "Truly" Compostable

Some bags are presented as "biodegradable" but contain microplastics inside. Check this by reading the labels! Yes, read the small print and look for a seal of approval, like TÜV Austria.

3. Do Not Overfeed Your Furry Friend

Being overweight is bad for him, but also for the environment. The Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) pointed out that the production of dog food contributes to the greenhouse effect.

4 Ideas To Reduce Carbon Pawprint With A Little Effort

Reduce the carbon footprint of your four-legged friend with these tips that require a little effort on your part.

1. Minimize The Use Of Plastics

Plastics take hundreds of years to degrade. In fact, plastic bottles can take up to a thousand years to do so. Minimizing its use is the best way to reduce carbon pawprint. You can:

• Use an eco-friendly dog ​​waste bag holder.
• Buy metal bowls instead of plastic.
• Choose leashes, harnesses, and collars that are made of hemp, recycled materials, or unused fabrics.

2. Adopt Instead Of Buying

Adopting prevents thousands of dogs from being euthanized in animal shelters every year. Not only will you save a life and get a faithful friend, but you will also fight against the negative impact on the environment of dog breeders.

3. Sterilize Your Dog

Sterilization is the best way to avoid animal overpopulation and reduce abandonment. Consult this option with your veterinarian.

4. DIY Dog Toys

Making dog toys is not difficult. On the contrary, it can be great fun for you and a fantastic way to reuse items that would otherwise end up in the trash.

4 Revolutionary Ways To Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

These options require a big effort and preparation from your part, but you can do it! 💪

1. Create Your Own Compost Bin For Dog Poop

Yes, it is possible to compost dog poop. You just have to do it carefully and, above all, in a specific bin for this waste. Follow this link to learn how to compost dog poop at home.

2. Prepare Sustainable And Homemade Dog Food

We assure you that it is not as complicated as you may think. You only need some ingredients. Of course, take into consideration the age, energy needs and the particular characteristics of your dog. You can talk to your trusted vet about this to prepare healthy and delicious homemade dog food.

Maybe you're interested: How To Make Your Own Sustainable Dog Food At Home

3. Make Your Dog Shampoo

With very few elements that you have at home, you can prepare a suitable shampoo for your dog's coat. The one he requires! Against fleas, to improve the coat, neutral, they are many options!.

The best thing is that by using natural products, you will not harm the environment, and you will not throw away containers over and over again. Learn how to prepare an eco-friendly dog's bath time here.

4. Donate To Animal Shelters

Donating time, money or items to animal shelters is another way to take care of the planet. You can donate toys or leashes that you no longer use, collaborate regularly in a protective organization, for example helping to bathe the dogs, or donate money.

What do you think of these simple ideas to reduce the carbon footprint of your dog? Share with us if you have more ways to take care of the environment.

FAQ

Is It Environmentally Friendly To Have A Dog? 

Having a dog has a clear impact on the environment. Your dog's carbon footprint is mainly associated with the production of meat-based food and dog feces. In the first case, the production of meat-based animal feed uses energy, water and other resources, thereby generating greenhouse gas emissions. 

On the other hand, dog poop can contaminate groundwater if left outdoors, in addition to being able to affect human health due to its content of pathogenic agents.

What Is A Carbon Footprint?

A Carbon footprint is the measure of gases that each of our activities or actions generates. In the case of a dog's carbon footprint, we refer to the impact of its food and drink, its stools and any activity it carries out (for example, the use of toys).

What Is A Dog's Carbon Footprint?

Some experts argue that the carbon footprint of a medium-sized dog is similar to the carbon footprint of a large SUV. A small passenger vehicle emits about 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year, and an SUV emits almost 14% more carbon dioxide.

Check out the study we referred to.

How Can I Reduce My Carbon Pawprint?

You can reduce your carbon pawprint by:

1. Scooping the poop.
2. Using compostable waste bags.
3. Avoiding overfeeding.
4. Using metal instead of plastic.
5. Adopting a dog. 
6. Sterilizing your pup.
7. Making DIY dog toys
8. Composting dog poop.
9. Cooking sustainable dog food.
10. Preparing a homemade natural shampoo.
11. Donating to animal shelters.

_____________________