5 Quick Eco-Friendly Dog Care Tips to Save Money and the Planet

At the beginning of the year, I decided to be more intentional about eco-friendly dog care. It’s been a learning process, but I’ve picked up a few easy swaps and habits that are better for the planet and my wallet. Today, I’m sharing five simple tips that you can start using right away. Whether it’s switching to biodegradable poop bags or rethinking your dog’s food choices, these small changes can make a big difference.

If you are just looking to start buying more eco-friendly and sustainable dog products, I've got you covered. Check out my 10 eco-friendly dog products post.

1. Swap Plastic Poop Bags for Biodegradable Ones

Let’s be real—picking up after our dogs isn’t the most glamorous part of pet ownership, but it’s a necessary one. The problem? Most plastic poop bags take hundreds of years to break down in landfills. That’s a lot of waste just sitting there.

Why poop bags matter:

✅ Less Plastic Waste – Biodegradable bags decompose much faster, reducing landfill buildup.

✅ Eco-Friendly Disposal – Compostable options break down naturally, making clean-up a little more guilt-free.

I haven’t switched yet because I still have a big stockpile of regular poop bags (waste not, right?), but once I run out, I’ll be making the switch for good. If you’re ready now, I’ve linked some recommendations in my eco-friendly pet products post.

2. DIY Pet-Safe Cleaning Solutions

Keeping a clean house with dogs can feel like a full-time job, but it doesn’t have to involve harsh chemicals. I started making my own pet-friendly cleaner using ingredients I already had at home, and honestly, it works just as well as store-bought stuff—without the worry of toxins near my dogs.

My go-to recipe:

• 1 cup white vinegar

• 1 cup water

• 1 tsp castile soap

• A few drops of lemon juice (or lemon essential oil)

Mix it up in a spray bottle, and you’re set! I use this on floors, dog bowls, and general messes. It’s cheap, effective, and way safer for my pups.

I love this cleaning mix because it not only can clean many surfaces in my house, but adding the lemon makes it smell great!

Here are some other benefits:

✅ Non-Toxic: No questionable chemicals near your pets. If you don't know, castile soap is made from plant oils making is an eco-friendly option. Plus, it gets bonus points for not normally being tested on animals.

✅ Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients you probably already have.

✅ Less Plastic Waste: No more buying bottles of commercial cleaner.

3. Spay/Neuter Your Pet

This one isn’t a product swap, but it’s a huge part of responsible pet ownership and sustainability. Overpopulation leads to overcrowded shelters and stray animals struggling to survive. Spaying and neutering help reduce this problem while also benefiting your pet’s health.

Why it’s important:

✅ Helps Control Overpopulation – Fewer homeless pets means fewer resources stretched thin.

✅ Reduces Strain on Shelters – More space for animals in need.

✅ Health Benefits – Can prevent certain cancers and reduce behavioral issues.

If you haven’t already, consider making this a priority—it’s one of the best things we can do for our pets and the planet.

4. Choose Sustainable Dog Food and Toppers

Dog food production has a bigger environmental impact than most people realize. If you want to make a greener choice, start by looking for:

• Responsibly Sourced Proteins – Brands like The Honest Kitchen, Dr. Harvey’s, and Open Farm prioritize sustainable ingredients.

• Eco-Friendly Packaging – Less plastic, more recyclable materials.

• Homemade Food Toppers – Adding fresh, whole ingredients to kibble can make meals healthier and more hydrating.

I’ve been adding my homemade dog food topper to my dogs’ meals, and they love it. Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra veggies and meat scraps, reducing food waste. When I use a topper, I adjust their kibble by about 20% to keep their portions balanced.

5. Choose Eco-Friendly Dog Toys

Dogs go through toys fast. Instead of buying cheap plastic or stuffed ones that fall apart, consider eco-friendly options made from recycled materials, natural rubber, or organic fabrics.

Why it’s worth it:

✅ Lasts Longer – Durable toys mean fewer replacements.

✅ Better for the Planet – Less plastic, more sustainable materials.

✅ Supports Ethical Companies – Your money goes toward brands that care about sustainability.

I try to choose toys that hold up over time (especially with my crew of chewers). Some brands even offer recyclable or upcycled options, which is a great bonus! I've listed some of my favorite brands on my eco-friendly dog products post.

Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact

Making eco-friendly choices for your dog doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. In fact, many of these swaps actually save money in the long run!

🌱 To recap:

✔️ Switch to biodegradable poop bags.

✔️ Make your own pet-safe cleaners.

✔️ Spay/neuter to support responsible pet care.

✔️ Choose sustainable food and toppers.

✔️ Pick durable, eco-friendly toys.

Every little change adds up, and together, we can make a difference!

And if you’re looking for more sustainable pet products, don't forget to check out my 10 eco-friendly pet products post for recommendations.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. Always check with your vet before making changes to your pet’s diet or health routine, especially if they have any pre-existing conditions.