The Scoop on Sustainable Dog Food Going Organic
Top 5 Eco-Friendly Dog Poop Bags for Responsible Pet Owners
How I Tested
I tested over 30 types/brands of dog poop bags and narrowed the list down to the recommendations above.
My testing process for each bag included evaluating their durability, sustainability, ease of pickup across multiple surfaces (grass, sand, pebbles, sidewalk, etc.), convenience, eco-credentials, and cost.
Why You Should Choose Sustainable Dog Waste Bags
When it comes to dog mess, traditional bags made from plastic are not a good option for the environment.
These bags can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to the growing plastic waste problem in the US.
Sustainable dog poop bags, on the other hand, are designed to break down naturally over time, minimizing their impact on the ecosystem.
By choosing these bags, you can feel good about taking a small but significant step towards reducing your carbon footprint and preserving the environment for future generations.
How to Identify Compostable and Biodegradable Dog Poop Bags
To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the difference between biodegradable and compostable poop bags.
Biodegradable dog poop bags are designed to break down into natural elements when exposed to the right conditions, such as sunlight, air, and moisture.
Compostable bags, on the other hand, break down more quickly and can also provide valuable nutrients to the soil during the composting process.
When choosing a dog waste bag, look for the following certifications to ensure that it meets the required standards for biodegradability and compostability.
EN 13432
This European Standard ensures that products crafted from biodegradable and compostable materials adhere to specific guidelines for environmentally friendly disposal.
According to EN 13432, compostable plastics must disintegrate within 12 weeks and fully biodegrade within six months.
ASTM International
Globally, there are more than 12,000 ASTM standards in operation.
There are two noteworthy standards relating to compostability of poop bags:
- ASTM D6400: ASTM D6400 sets a strict standard for compostable plastics. These guidelines ensure that dog poop bags biodegrade swiftly in industrial and municipal environments.
- ASTM D6954: A product certified to the ASTM D6954 standard must biodegrade in less than two years without producing harmful byproducts.
Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI)
TheBPI Certification Mark signifies that manufacturers and brand owners have obtained third-party verification for the compostability of their products and packaging.
It serves as a reliable indicator for consumers, end-users, and composters to determine if a product or package can be composted.
BPI is the foremost third-party verifier of compostable products in North America, adhering to ASTM standards.
Factors to Consider when Choosing Eco-Friendly Poop Bags
Material
The material used in sustainable poop bags is crucial.
Look for bags made from plant-based materials like cornstarch, vegetable oils, or bioplastics derived from renewable sources.
Biodegradability
In 2015, the FDA reported that greenwashing was an issue in the world of dog poop bags. Unfortunately, that's still the case today.
To ensure you get the best biodegradable dog mess bag, look forcertifications or standards that guarantee the bags' biodegradability, such as the ones mentioned earlier.
For further reading on biodegradability, check out this 5-minute guide.
Size and Strength
Consider the size and weight of your dog when choosing the thickness and strength of the poop bags.
Larger dogs produce more poop and require bigger and more durable bags to prevent accidental leaks or tears.
Scented or Unscented
Some poop bags come with added scents to mask unpleasant odors.
Consider your preference and your dog's sensitivities when choosing between scented or unscented bags.
Style
There are a variety of styles and colors to choose from when it comes to poop bags.
Whether you want handles or no handles, a classic plain bag, or something with a more eye-catching pattern, there's an option for everyone!
Other Eco-Friendly Pet Waste Solutions
In addition to buying biodegradable and compostable poop bags, there are other eco-friendly solutions for managing pet waste.
Doggie Dooley In-Ground Dog Waste Disposal System
This in-ground waste digester breaks down dog mess through bacterial digestion.
This system is earth-friendly and eliminates the need for plastic bags.
Leaves
Choosing natural products instead of plastic bags is another clean and sustainable way to manage your dog's waste when out and about.
For example, scoop the poop into a big leaf and toss it into a designated dog poop bin or take it home to compost or flush.
Shovel
You should be ditching the bags altogether when clearing up dog mess in your yard.
Grab a shovel and scoop the poop. You can add it to your compost heap, dig it into your garden, or even flush it if you have outside conveniences.
Poop Scoop
A poop scoop is another excellent way to collect poop in your yard.
The scoop is usually made of metal or plastic (some have long handles so you can easily reach into tight areas or deep piles).
Once collected, add it to your compost heap, dig it into the garden, or flush it away where possible.
Some poop scoops are even small enough to take on walks. But bags offer the most convenience for on-the-go pickups.
How to Correctly Dispose of Dog Mess
While switching to sustainable poop bags is a step in the right direction, it's essential to dispose of the waste properly to keep the environment clean and prevent contamination and pollution.
Avoid Disposing of Dog Mess in Trash Bins
Try to avoid disposing of dog mess in regular trash bins.
Due to the lack of oxygen in most landfill sites, most dog poop bags will never fully decompose (even the ones labeled as home compostable).
Flush Waste with Water-Soluble Bags
If you have access to a toilet, consider using water-soluble bags and flushing the waste down the toilet.
This method ensures proper disposal and eliminates the need for landfill space. Be careful of large bags though as you don't want to cause a blockage.
Bury It
If flushing is not an option, you can bury the waste in a designated area within your property.
Make sure to dig a hole deep enough to prevent animals from digging it up and disrupting the waste decomposition process.
Home Composting
Yes, you can compost dog waste.
The EPA has put togethera handy guide to get you started.
However, be sure to only use your dog waste compost on plants and flowers (not fruits and vegetables you will eat).
Use a Commercial Poop-Bag-Collecting Service
Some companies offer services where they collect your dog's waste and dispose of it in an eco-friendly manner.
Consider using such a service if one is available in your area.
More Eco-Friendly Ways to Care for Your Dog
Why stop at poop bags? Your faithful hound (and the planet) deserves to be well treated, 24/7, 365!
Here are a few other ways I love to pamper Millie:
How do I tie a poop bag with no handles?
My favorite method is as follows:
- Tear a bag from the roll and place it on your hand like a glove
- Grab the poop
- Turn the bag inside out to contain the poop
- Hold the bag in one hand and spin it gently with the other
- Tie off the spiral that has formed in a tight knot close to the poop
What are sustainable poop bags made from?
Sustainable poop bags are made from sustainable and renewable materials such as cornstarch, plant starch, or other compostable substances.
These materials decompose faster and cleaner than conventional plastics.
Are eco-friendly poop bags as durable as regular plastic bags?
Yes, good-quality eco poop bags are just as durable as regular plastic bags. They're designed to be robust and tear-resistant, so you can safely transport your pet's waste without worry.
However, some biodegradable materials may not last as long in extreme weather conditions or if exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. So be careful with storage and bulk buying.
Are eco poop bags expensive?
Yes, eco poop bags can be more expensive than regular plastic bags. But the extra cost is worth it for the environmental benefits they provide.
ook for deals and coupon codes when shopping online to save a few bucks.
The Final Word
Choosing sustainable pet poop bags (for a small or big dog) is an easy yet impactful way to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier environment.
You can make an informed decision when purchasing these bags by considering factors such as material, biodegradability, and strength.
Remember to also follow proper disposal practices to minimize the environmental impact of your dog's mess.
It's also possible to skip the bag altogether. Opting for a hand-held scoop or shovel to transfer dog waste from the ground to a composting bin, toilet, or hole in the ground may be the most environmentally conscious choice.
However, for those of us walking our dogs every day in urban environments, the poop bag is the most practical solution. The key lies in using them appropriately.
So, let's be responsible dog owners and ensure our dog poop bags are made from sustainable materials instead of virgin plastic.
Your dog and the planet will thank you!
Get In Touch
What's your favorite eco-friendly option when shopping for dog waste bags to clean up pet poop?
Do you only buy biodegradable pet waste bags? Or do you insist on compostable dog poop bags and nothing else? Or maybe you're a flusher? Drop me a line and let me know.
Best Organic Dog Foods
Tender and True Chicken and Liver Recipe is one of 6 dry recipes included in our review of the Tender and True dry product line.
Tender and True Chicken and Liver derives the vast majority of its animal protein from both chicken meal and fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 18% fat and 45% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
Tender and True is USDA certified organic which makes each recipe a rare find for discerning dog owners.
Read our review of the full Tender and True Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Organic chicken, organic chicken meal, organic tapioca starch, organic dried pea, organic chickpea Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 29% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog had eczema and allergies. Since switching to the pesticide free dog food, chicken and liver flavor, her eczema is gone. I highly recommend going organic. I really like that the chickens were humanely raised as well."
Gather Free Acres is one of 3 dry recipes included in our review of the Gather product line.
Gather Free Acres gets the lions share of its meat protein from fresh chicken and dehydrated chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 17% fat and 42% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
In addition to Gathers certified organic ingredients, each recipe also contains a balanced blend of healthy omega 3 and omega 6 fats. A top choice.
Read our review of the full Gather Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Organic chicken, organic dehydrated chicken, organic peas, lentils, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog Daisy has a sensitive stomach and has been having all sorts of problems due to her food that she didnt even like. I switched her to this food and she has made a 180 turn around for the better. Im very happy with this product."
Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken Recipe is one of 8 dehydrated recipes included in our review of the Honest Kitchen product line.
This Whole Grain Chicken formulation derives the bulk of its meat protein from dehydrated chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 15% fat and 50% estimated carbs which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
In addition to its multiple organic ingredients, each recipe is processed in a human grade food processing facility.
And each component is non genetically modified (non-GMO) and free of any chemicals or preservatives. All meat ingredients are hormone and antibiotic free, too.
See all available recipes.
Read our review of the full Honest Kitchen Dog Food (Dehydrated) range here
Main Ingredients Dehydrated chicken, organic barley, dehydrated potatoes, organic flaxseed, organic oats Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusiv Protein Percentage 27% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My German Shepherd is a fussy eater, with his fair share of allergies. Ive tried all different brands and this one makes my Shermy happy. Its a great price, easy meal prep and super filling for him. This is the first brand of food I dont have to add anything or convince him to eat what I put down for him. I think I finally found a food we will be sticking with!"
Stella and Chewys Venison Blend is one of 13 raw recipes included in our review of the Stella and Chewys Freeze-Dried Dinner product line.Venison, lamb, lamb liver, venison liver, venison lung
This Venison Blend recipe derives the largest share of its animal protein from both venison and lamb. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 47% protein, 32% fat and 13% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
Stella and Chewys promises all its frozen and freeze-dried raw recipes include vitamins and minerals sourced from 100% certified organic fruits and vegetables.
A top-rated, freeze-dried dog food for those not requiring organic meat. Recommended with confidence.
See all 13 available recipes
Read our review of the full Stella and Chewys Freeze Dried Dinners Dog Food (Freeze-Dried) range here
Main Ingredients Venison, lamb, lamb liver, venison liver, venison lung Texture Raw Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 47% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My pretty pittie is allergic to everything, beef, chicken, lamb, tomato (which is in most dog food) grain, etc. It was also recommended that we go with raw food. We have tried many brands of venison, duck, bison and wild boar. This by far is her favorite food. It is easy to store because most of the other brands were frozen. We feed her 2 1/2 "pucks" broken up and mixed with grain free dry food 2x a day. We typically add water to the pucks but she also enjoys them dry right out of the bag."
Carna4 Chicken is one of 6 dry recipes included in our review of the Carna4 product line.
This Carna4 formula derives most of its animal protein from both fresh chicken and chicken liver. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 17% fat and 43% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
Features a number of plant-based, organic ingredients. A quality formulation worthy of consideration.
Read our review of the full Carna4 Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Fresh chicken, chicken liver, eggs, organic sprouted barley seed, wild salmon Type: Grain-inclusive (barley, rice) Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 32% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com"You will notice the difference in your dog within a few days of switching them to this dry kibble. All of our dogs (2 Seniors, 1 Adult and 3 Puppies) all love the food. They are happier, healthier looking and acting (shiny eyes, shiny coat, more energy, no tummy troubles ie. vomiting/diarreah no itching skin or scratching)."
Organic Chicken and Liver Recipe is one of 2 wet products included in our review of the Tender and True Canned product line.
This Tender and True organic formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Based on dry matter, this recipe contains 39% protein, 23% fat and 31% estimated carbs which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 59%.
A smooth, finely-chopped pate consistency. Its 100% complete and balanced nutrition with added vitamins, minerals and other trace nutrients.
Fully organic. Contains no grain, GMOs, corn, wheat, or soy. Also free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. A quality wet diet. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Tender and True Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Organic chicken, water sufficient for processing, organic pea Flour, organic chicken liver, organic chicken heart Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 39% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog is the pickiest dog i have ever had, never wanted to eat anything, always turning his nose up at everything I put him in front of him. Someone suggested Tender and True and it has been a complete turnaround, he cant wait to eat. Cleans the bowl as if her were starving. I highly recommend this product."
