Eco Pet Food 101: Sustainable Choices Your Pet (and the Planet) Will Love
Let’s be real — your pet is family, and what they eat matters. But choosing the right food isn’t just about kibble vs raw. It’s about where it comes from, how it’s made, and whether it’s sustainable. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is my pet’s food eco-friendly?”, “Am I feeding my dog sustainable pet food?”… You’re not alone.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about sustainable pet food so you can feed your furry friend without impacting the planet.
What Makes Sustainable Pet Food?
- Ethically sourced, low-impact proteins (like fish, insect, or plant-based)
- Organic or non-GMO ingredients
- Transparent supply chains
- Minimal or compostable packaging
In short: the fewer emissions, the better. It’s not just about nutrition — it’s about impact.
🌱 The Greenest Protein Source
Wondering which proteins are most eco-friendly? Here’s a quick ranking from best to worst:
- Insect protein: ultra low water + land usage
- Sustainably sourced fish: good for omega-3s and the planet
- Plant-based options: peas, lentils, and legumes = lower carbon pawprint
- Grass-fed poultry: better than beef, but still carbon-intensive
- Beef or lamb: 🛑 high greenhouse gas emissions
“If you want to save the planet, start with pet food.”
— Dr. Ernie Ward, veterinarian and animal wellness advocate
♻️ Packaging Counts, Too
Even the best ingredients lose points if they’re packed in plastic tubs. Look for sustainable pet food packaging such as:
- Compostable or recyclable bags
- Bulk options with refill programs
- Brands with carbon offset pledges
💡 What About Cats?
Eco cat food options are growing too! Look for:
- Sustainably sourced fish
- No artificial fillers
- BPA-free cans or paper cartons
Stay tuned for our upcoming article on eco-friendly cat nutrition.
👉 Don’t miss: Next-Level Green: 5 Innovative Eco Upgrades for Your Pet’s Routine
“Most pet foods are meat-heavy — and meat production uses boatloads of land, energy and water. Choose sustainably sourced diets and your pet’s planet paw-print shrinks fast.”
— Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM, a Texas-based veterinarian on feeding pets eco-friendlier meals
Top Sustainable Pet Food Brands
Great for dogs with allergies and sensitive stomachs, Jiminy’s Good Grub is made with digestible insect protein that supports brain, joint, skin, and immune health.
Packed with natural prebiotics and antimicrobial benefits, it promotes a shiny coat, fresh breath, and a happy gut. (Currently unavailable – try our link for other options.
Pros: Dogs love it, vet-approved.
Cons: May be pricey for large breeds.
2. Open Farm Raw Mix Dry Dog Food
Open Farm, Raw Mix Dry Dog Food with Ancient Grains, Protein-Packed Kibble Coated in Bone Broth with Freeze Dried Raw Chunks, Pollock Beef & Salmon
The added benefits of ethical sourcing and recyclable packaging make this a sensible choice for both your pet and your home.
Review highlight: “I trust this brand. My dog has more energy and a shinier coat!”
3. Sams Yams Sweet Potato Dog Treats – Healthy High Fiber Vegan Dental Chews
100% complete and balanced, plant-based dog treats for small and medium sized dogs as chews or for bigger dogs as training treats. Made from 1 ingredient, they are grain free, gluten free, glycerine free and dried to perfection. Made from yams/USDA-grade sweet potations they are high in natural beta-carotene.
Completely plant-based and balanced.
This vegan option is excellent for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.
4. The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Whole Grain Dog Food – Complete Meal or Topper
This 100% human-grade dehydrated dog food, made with free-range chicken and organic ingredients, rehydrates to four times its weight in fresh, nutritious meals—just add warm water.
Perfect for puppies and adults, it’s filler-free, easy to digest, and made by a Certified B Corp that puts pets and the planet first.
Human-grade, whole-food ingredients.
Easy to use as you simply mix with warm water for a warm meal.
🎉 You can make a difference!
Feeding your pet sustainably doesn’t mean sacrificing quality — it means being intentional. Choosing the right brand, checking the label, and thinking beyond the bowl can seriously lower your environmental impact.
Another way to make a difference is to bake your own homemade dog treats. Check out our article here for more information: Baking Love: What to Know about Homemade Dog Treats.
