The dog lover’s climate dilemma: when environmental values meet pet ownership

A new study has revealed an uncomfortable truth for environmentally conscious pet owners: dogs have a surprisingly large carbon footprint that most people significantly underestimate. Research published in PNAS Nexus found that while people accurately gauge the climate impact of actions like recycling and energy-efficient appliances, they vastly underestimate the environmental cost of pet ownership—particularly dogs.

The numbers are striking. Dogs and cats account for 25-30% of meat consumption’s environmental impact in the United States, equivalent to emissions from 13.6 million cars annually. This stems primarily from their meat-heavy diets, but also includes waste production and the plastic bags used for cleanup. With America’s dog population growing from 53 million in 1996 to nearly 90 million today, the collective impact is substantial.

However, the study’s findings sparked intense backlash when media coverage was perceived as attacking beloved family pets. Lead researcher Danielle Goldwert emphasized that the goal was never to shame pet owners or suggest people abandon their animals, but rather to understand how better climate communication might influence behavior. The defensive reaction highlights a broader challenge in environmental messaging: how to discuss personal responsibility without triggering resistance that ultimately harms climate action.

The solution isn’t giving up pets, but finding balance. Pet owners can reduce their animals’ carbon pawprint by switching to lower-carbon protein sources (avoiding beef-based foods), choosing insect-based treats, or exploring partial plant-based diets where appropriate. More importantly, the deep love people feel for their pets can be channeled into broader climate advocacy—fighting for a future where both humans and companion animals can thrive on a stable planet.