If you’re one of the 66% of U.S. households with a furry friend, you already know how much joy pets can bring.
But did you know that our animal companions also come with an unexpected environmental impact? Between food, waste, toys, and accessories, our pets are leaving more than paw prints on the planet.
In fact, pet food alone contributes to 25-30% of the environmental impact of meat consumption in the U.S. If all of America’s pets formed their own country, they’d rank fifth in the world for meat consumption! (although it would be a cute place to visit…)
Meanwhile, the pet industry produces nearly 300 million pounds of plastic waste every year and 99% of pet food and treat packaging ends up in landfill.
The good news? With a few mindful swaps, pet parents can reduce their footprint without sacrificing care or comfort. Here are 15 sustainable pet products for dogs and cats that support your pet’s health and the planet’s well-being.
Your Sustainable Pet Checklist
Dog Essentials
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Infinity Dog Leash
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BioBag Compostable Pet Waste Bags
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AWPOO Dog Bag Holder
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Fish Training Bites for Dogs
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Hemp Corduroy Collar
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All-Natural Dog Bone
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Skin Soother Healing Balm
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Huggie Dog Harness
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Furry Friends Aromatherapy Kit
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Zero Waste Dog Shampoo
Cat Essentials
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Redecker Handcrafted Cat Brush
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Boba & Vespa Stingray Cat Toy
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Eco Wool Toy Balls (6pk)
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Organic Eco Kitty Cave
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Critters Cat Toys
Top Sustainable Dog Products
1. The Infinity Dog Leash
Crafted from durable, upcycled polyester, this eco-conscious leash is made to last. It’s strong, stylish, and saves perfectly good materials from going to waste. Great for dogs who love long walks and humans who love a lighter footprint.
2. BioBag Compostable Pet Waste Bags (200pk)
Roughly 40% of dog owners don’t clean up after their pets, which can leave behind harmful bacteria and pollutants that impact soil and waterways. For those who do, traditional plastic bags create long-term waste. That’s why we love these compostable bags, made from plant starch that breaks down naturally and safely, keeping outdoor spaces clean without contributing to plastic pollution.
3. AWPOO Dog Bag Holder
This sleek bag holder is made from BPA- and PVC-free silicone designed to clip easily to your leash or belt. It’s the perfect low-waste way to stay prepared when nature calls.
4. Fish Training Bites for Dogs
These single-ingredient training treats are packed with omega-3s and sustainably sourced from wild-caught fish. With no fillers or preservatives, they're a healthy, natural pet product your pup will love.
5. The Good Dog Company Hemp Corduroy Collar
Made from a blend of hemp and organic cotton, this collar is durable, breathable, and biodegradable. It’s a stylish way to keep your pet secure while skipping the synthetics.
6. All-Natural Dog Bone
Many conventional dog chews are filled with artificial ingredients or plastic-based components, but his natural pet product is made from just two simple, sustainable ingredients: PEFC-certified natural wood fiber and plant-based oil. Compared to traditional plastic-based chews, it reduces fossil fuel use and emissions by up to 85%!
7. Natural Dog Company Skin Soother
This all-natural balm helps soothe itchy skin, hot spots, and minor wounds with organic, pet-safe herbs. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, it's perfect for healing cuts, burns, and irritated skin. Plus it's non-toxic and safe if licked.
8. Huggie Dog Harness
Comfortable, secure, and made with roughly 5 repurposed plastic bottles, this harness is a pet parent favorite. It’s fully adjustable and reduces pressure on your dog’s chest, making walkies more enjoyable for you both.
9. Mindful Mixtures Furry Friends Pet Aromatherapy Kit
Perfect for anxious pets, this 2-pack kit uses essential oils to promote calm during stressful situations like car rides or vet visits. It’s a gentle, natural way to support your pet’s emotional well-being.
10. Zero Waste Dog Shampoo
If (like us!) you’re obsessed with Suds & Eco shampoo bars, why not let your pup in on it? This bar shampoo lathers beautifully and is free from plastic, sulfates, and artificial fragrances. A must-have sustainable pet product for clean, healthy coats.
Sustainable Picks for Cats
Cat people, we didn’t forget about you! Here are five natural pet products designed specifically for your feline companions:
11. Redecker Handcrafted Cat Brush
Made from natural bristles and oiled beechwood, this elegant grooming tool helps reduce shedding and distributes oils naturally through your cat’s coat. A sustainable alternative to plastic grooming tools, it’s as durable as it is effective.
12. Organic Catnip Cat Toy
Filled with certified organic catnip and stitched from organic cotton, this stingray catnip toy is as fun for your cat as it is eco-friendly. Great for batting, chasing, and encouraging healthy play.
13. Eco Wool Toy Balls (6pk)
Lightweight and safe, these balls are made from upcycled wool scraps. They’re perfect for kitties who love to pounce and chase, without introducing plastic or toxic dyes into their playtime.
14. Organic Eco Kitty Cave
Hand-felted from 100% certified cruelty-free New Zealand wool, this cozy cave is a minimalist, biodegradable alternative to synthetic pet beds. Cats love the enclosed design for napping and hiding out.
15. Critters Cat Toys - Catch Me If You Can
These colorful handmade toys are crafted with natural wool and plant-based dyes. Lightweight and playful, they support artisan makers while keeping your cat happily entertained.
Final Thoughts: Why Sustainable Pet Care Matters
From their diet to their toys, your pet’s lifestyle has an environmental impact. And while they may not be able to choose greener options themselves, you can make choices on their behalf.
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Pet food: Responsible sourcing and reducing overfeeding can help cut back on the industry’s carbon footprint.
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Waste: Compostable poop bags help prevent microplastic pollution.
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Toys and gear: Swapping out plastic toys for natural, durable ones means less landfill waste.
Explore the full pet collection here and build your custom checklist of sustainable supplies.
By choosing sustainable pet products, you’re reducing your environmental pawprint while giving your furry friend the best. From natural pet products like shampoo and treats to durable toys and compostable bags, EarthHero makes it easy to put your values into action.
To dig deeper into the environmental impact of pet care, check out these blogs:
