With the increase of eco-friendly labels and natural claims on pet products, it can feel like you’re doing the right thing when you pick up items marked “green” or “sustainable.”
However, not all labels are what they seem. Many brands engage in greenwashing, making misleading claims about their products’ environmental benefits.
Learn how to spot greenwashing in pet products and ensure you make the right choices that benefit your dog and the environment.
What is greenwashing?
Greenwashing occurs when a company advertises a product as environmentally friendly or sustainable without supporting its claims with proof.
This can be as simple as incorporating nature imagery on the packaging or using terms like “all-natural” or “eco-friendly” without explaining the product’s environmental benefits.
Greenwashing tactics to watch for
Greenwashing can be tricky to spot, but there are common tactics companies use to mislead you.
Vague language
Terms like “natural,” “green,” and “eco-friendly“ are often used on pet products to signal that they are safe for dogs and the environment. However, these words mean little without specifics.
For example, a dog shampoo labeled “natural” might still contain synthetic chemicals. Always look for detailed ingredient lists or certifications that explain what makes the product better.
A brand that doesn’t back up its claims with clear explanations is likely greenwashing.
No certifications or false certifications
Genuine eco-friendly products usually carry certifications from recognized organizations.
For pet food, look for labels like USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) Organic or Non-GMO (genetically modified organism) Project Verified.
Certification from organizations like Leaping Bunny for cruelty-free products or OEKO-TEX for textiles can indicate legitimate environmental responsibility for non-food items.
Some companies use fake or misleading certifications to appear green. Be cautious of logos that look official but don’t come from a known certification body. Research if you’re unsure.
Misleading packaging imagery
Nature-themed packaging is another tactic used to convey a sense of eco-friendliness.
However, the visuals on a product’s packaging only tell part of the story.
Just because a dog food bag features farm animals or green meadows doesn’t guarantee sustainable sourcing of ingredients.
Understanding pet food ingredient labels
When it comes to dog food, ingredient transparency is vital.
Dog food brands often greenwash using vague terms that sound healthy, but you’ll need to dig deeper into the ingredient list to ensure what you’re buying is genuinely high-quality and eco-friendly.
The “all-natural“ claim
Many pet foods claim to be “all-natural,“ but this doesn’t necessarily mean the ingredients are healthy or environmentally responsible.
“Natural” means the product contains no artificial additives, but the ingredients themselves could still be low-quality or produced in unsustainable ways.
Look for specific, whole-food ingredients like “real chicken“ or “wild-caught fish“ rather than vague labels like “poultry meal“ or “animal by-products.“
A brand committed to sustainability will provide detailed information on how it sources ingredients, including references to free-range animals or organic farming practices.
Sustainable protein sources
The protein source in dog food can have a significant environmental impact.
Genuinely eco-conscious brands often use responsibly sourced, humane, or plant-based proteins.
Be cautious of terms like “human-grade” or “sustainably sourced” unless the company provides evidence to support its claims.
Greenwashing in pet care products
Beyond food, pet care products are another area where greenwashing can occur.
Shampoos and grooming products often label themselves as “gentle,” “organic,” or “chemical-free,” but some still contain harsh ingredients that are bad for dogs and the environment.
Shampoo and grooming products
Always read the ingredient list. Avoid products containing parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances, which can harm your dog and the environment.
Instead, look for shampoos with natural oils, like coconut or olive oil, and essential oils for fragrance.
Remember, the label “chemical-free” can be misleading because chemicals make up everything, and the goal is to avoid harmful ones.
Toys and accessories
When it comes to toys, durability is essential.
Cheap plastic or synthetic playthings may be labeled “green” or “eco-friendly,” but if they break easily and end up in a landfill, they aren’t sustainable.
Opt for products made from natural, biodegradable materials like rubber, hemp, or recycled items.
Similarly, collars and leashes made from organic cotton or other sustainable fibers are better choices than synthetic options that don’t break down over time.
Look for brands that openly discuss their environmental impact and material sourcing.
How to make better choices with pet products
Reducing raw materials and energy in manufacturing can significantly lower costs, as they make up over 50% of a product’s total expense.
Brands that use fewer resources and minimize energy consumption benefit the environment and cut production costs.
These savings can often be passed on to you as a consumer while ensuring the items you choose are more sustainable.
How can you avoid greenwashing and choose truly eco-friendly products for your dog?
Here are a few tips.
Research the brand
Spend time on the company’s website before purchasing.
Does it provide information about its sourcing, manufacturing, and sustainability efforts? Is it transparent about ingredients or materials?
Read labels and ingredient lists
Don’t rely on the claims on the front of the package for food and grooming products.
Always check the ingredient list to ensure the product does not contain harmful additives or unsustainable ingredients.
Pet food labels are great resources for pet owners — use them.
Avoid vague claims
It’s a red flag if a product uses vague language like “natural“ or “green“ without backing it up with details.
Trust products that provide specific, transparent information.
Keep your pet safe from greenwashing
Decoding labels and researching the products you buy for your dog can help you avoid greenwashing and ensure your pet’s safety.
The more informed you are, the better you’ll be able to spot misleading claims and choose items that are genuinely good for your dog and the planet.
Jane Marsh is an environmental writer passionate about pet care and health. To read more of her work, visit her site Environment.co.
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