Is Your Dog’s Diet Harming the Planet? Here’s What New Research Reveals

TL;DR: New research reveals that while dogs enrich our lives, their environmental impact is far greater than most owners realise. From disturbing wildlife and polluting waterways to the carbon footprint of pet food, the effects are extensive but not inevitable. With greater awareness and smarter choices—like sustainable treats and responsible walking—dog owners can help reduce this hidden burden on the planet.

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Dogs may be our best friends—but new research suggests they’re also a significant, and often overlooked, environmental burden. A recent article in Pacific Conservation Biology reveals that while dogs are beloved companions, their environmental impact is more substantial than many realise. From chasing wildlife to contaminating waterways with flea treatments, the consequences of dog ownership ripple through ecosystems. One of the most underestimated contributors? The pet food industry.

Globally, the environmental cost of feeding our dogs is staggering. Pet food production globally generates between 56 and 151 million tonnes of CO₂-equivalent emissions annually, uses up to 1.2% of global agricultural land, and consumes 0.4% of all freshwater used in agriculture. That’s roughly equivalent to the annual emissions from tens of millions of cars, and more land than some countries use for all crops combined

The “environmental paw print” of owned dogs comes from the production, transport, and disposal associated with pet products, including food. Conventional treats, for example, often use industrially farmed meat—produced via intensive livestock operations with high emissions, resource use, and ethical concerns. By contrast, single-ingredient treats made from human-grade, locally sourced meat or seafood can avoid many of these pitfalls, such as the treats we make from dehydrated Australian beef liver or king prawn. According to the research, reducing our reliance on dog food that uses resource-heavy food inputs is a key sustainability lever.

Beyond emissions from food production, the article highlights other ecological concerns, namely:

• Flea and tick treatments rinsed into waterways kill aquatic invertebrates;
  
  
• Dog urine and faeces alter urban soil and nitrogen levels;
  
  
• Dogs act as vectors for zoonoses, posing risks to wildlife and humans alike.

These impacts are often invisible to owners but have real consequences for local ecosystems.

Importantly, the researchers argue that the environmental problems tied to dogs aren’t inevitable—but they are the product of owner behaviours and systemic industry practices. For those thinking sustainably, this means reconsidering not only how we walk and wash our dogs, but how we feed them—treats included.

So, how do we reduce this impact without compromising care? Dogs are here to stay so it is important that owner behaviours shift, especially around food choices. This is where sustainably produced treats come in. Choosing single-ingredient, locally sourced options—like dehydrated organ meat chews or wild-caught seafood—can reduce waste, support ethical sourcing, and lower emissions from transport.

Importantly, this shift doesn’t require compromise. It means making thoughtful choices that align with both your dog’s needs and the planet’s limits.  At True Blue Pet Treats, we’re committed to this vision. Every treat starts with human-grade Australian meat or seafood, supporting both your dog’s health and the planet’s future.