Every purchase is a vote—for the environment, for animal welfare, and for a more sustainable future. As dog lovers, we want the best for our pups, but we can also choose what’s best for the planet by supporting eco-friendly dog brands and businesses.
From sustainable toys and gear to zero-waste grooming products and ethical treat makers, there are countless pet companies leading the charge for greener living.
Here’s how to identify and support them—and why it matters more than ever.
Why It Matters
The pet industry is massive—valued at over $130 billion globally—and with that size comes a hefty environmental footprint. Common issues include:
- Plastic packaging and non-recyclable materials
- Mass production with high emissions
- Unethical sourcing of ingredients or materials
- Lack of transparency in supply chains
By supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability, you’re:
- Reducing demand for wasteful products
- Encouraging ethical practices
- Promoting innovation in eco-friendly pet care
- Helping set a standard for greener industry norms
What Makes a Dog Brand Eco-Friendly?
When shopping for pet products, look for brands that offer the following:
✅ Sustainable Materials
- Organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, natural rubber, or recycled plastics
✅ Minimal or Recycled Packaging
- Cardboard, compostable bags, reusable containers
✅ Ethical Production
- Fair labor practices, cruelty-free policies, and locally sourced ingredients
✅ Transparency & Certifications
- Certifications like USDA Organic, Leaping Bunny, or Certified B Corp
✅ Charitable Contributions
- Donations to shelters, climate action programs, or wildlife conservation
Standout Eco-Friendly Dog Brands to Explore
Here are some top-rated companies that align with sustainable values:
🦴 West Paw
- Toys and beds made from recycled materials
- Certified B Corp and zero-waste facility
- Made in the USA
🐶 The Foggy Dog
- Uses recycled stuffing in beds and collars
- Ethically handmade in small batches
- Donates a meal to a shelter dog with every order
🌱 Earth Rated
- Compostable and recycled poop bags
- Partners with animal shelters and environmental organizations
- Certified plastic neutral
🍪 Jiminy’s
- Dog treats made with insect protein (sustainable and nutritious!)
- Minimal water and land use
- Climate-conscious and humane ingredient sourcing
🧴 4-Legger
- Organic dog grooming products
- Free of toxins, sulfates, and synthetics
- USDA Certified Organic, cruelty-free
🐾 P.L.A.Y. (Pet Lifestyle and You)
- Durable, eco-conscious dog beds and toys
- Made with PlanetFill® (recycled plastic bottles)
- Supports global pet causes
How to Support Sustainable Pet Businesses
Even small changes in how you shop can make a big difference:
🛍 Buy Direct
- Order from the brand’s website to support them directly and avoid big-box retailer fees.
📦 Look for Low-Waste Shipping
- Many eco-friendly brands use plastic-free shipping materials—bonus points for reusable boxes or compostable fillers.
💬 Spread the Word
- Leave positive reviews, share on social media, or refer friends. Word-of-mouth drives meaningful growth for small eco-conscious brands.
🧾 Ask Questions
- Not sure how a product is made? Reach out! Responsible brands are happy to talk about their sustainability practices.
Bonus: Shop Local & Small
Don’t overlook your community! Many local pet shops and small businesses:
- Offer handmade or upcycled dog goods
- Source treats and foods from nearby suppliers
- Support rescue organizations
- Are open to stocking greener products if customers ask
Supporting small-scale sellers means fewer shipping emissions, less mass production, and stronger community ties.
Red Flags to Watch For
Not all “green” claims are created equal. Avoid brands that:
- Use vague labels like “eco-friendly” without specifics
- Greenwash products while still relying heavily on plastic
- Offer no transparency about sourcing or ingredients
- Don’t back up claims with certifications or third-party proof
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Dig a little deeper!
Final Thoughts
Supporting eco-friendly dog brands and businesses isn’t just about what’s in your shopping cart—it’s about shaping a better world for pets, people, and the planet. Every sustainable choice you make is part of a larger ripple effect.
By choosing brands that care as much as you do, you’re helping redefine what responsible pet ownership looks like—conscious, compassionate, and committed to doing better.