A new study has revealed that pet dogs have significant environmental effects, including disturbing wildlife, polluting waterways, and contributing to carbon emissions. This Australian review of existing research highlights how the environmental impact of dogs is often overlooked, especially compared to that of cats.
The study, published in Pacific Conservation Biology, draws attention to the extensive consequences of pet dogs, which are considered the world’s “commonest large carnivore.” Dogs’ interactions with wildlife can lead to disturbance or death of native species, particularly shorebirds. In Australia, for instance, unrestrained dogs have been linked to the decline of little penguin colonies in Tasmania, with attacks from dogs being a major cause of wildlife injuries.
In the United States, studies found that deer, foxes, and bobcats tend to avoid wilderness areas where dogs roam freely. Additionally, the chemicals in flea and tick medications can wash into waterways, killing aquatic life, while dog feces can alter soil chemistry, affecting plant growth.
The carbon footprint of dogs is also significant. A 2020 study estimated that the dry pet food industry has an environmental footprint twice the size of the UK, with greenhouse gas emissions comparable to the 60th highest-emitting country.
Prof. Bill Bateman, the study’s lead author, emphasized that the intention was not to criticize dog ownership but to raise awareness of the environmental impacts. He acknowledged that dogs provide immense mental and physical health benefits to their owners and play essential roles in conservation, such as in wildlife detection. However, he pointed out that the environmental costs are often ignored due to the strong bond people have with their dogs.
The researchers also noted that the large number of dogs worldwide, combined with the often uninformed or careless behavior of some dog owners, exacerbates these environmental impacts. Simple measures, like leashing dogs in designated areas and keeping a distance from wildlife habitats, could reduce some of the negative effects.
Bateman also suggested the potential for more sustainable dog food options, though these tend to be more expensive than regular pet food with a higher carbon footprint. He concluded with a simple yet impactful recommendation: “Pick up your own dog’s poop.”
While this study sheds light on the environmental challenges posed by pet dogs, it also calls for a balance, considering the joy and benefits dogs bring to their owners and the environment.
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