New Research Reveals The ‘Extensive’ Environmental Impact Of Companion Dogs

A new research article published in Pacific Conservation Biology highlights the negative environmental impact of pet dogs on the ecosystem. The authors, Philip W. Bateman and Lauren N. Gilson of Curtin University, found that owned dogs disturb multiple species directly through killing and disturbing wildlife, and their mere presence can also have detrimental effects on birds and mammals. Additionally, the excreta of dogs can transfer diseases to wildlife, pollute waterways, and impact plant growth.

The sheer number of owned dogs worldwide, approximately 900 million, also contributes to the pet food industry's extensive resource consumption and carbon emissions. As the environmental impact of traditional animal-based pet food becomes more evident, alternatives like vegan pet food and cultivated pet food are becoming more competitive and available. The research highlights the need for increased education around responsible owner behavior and emphasizes the importance of including the dog food industry in sustainability actions to address its considerable environmental footprint.