Raising a Green Dog

How to go green? That is the question many dog owners are asking. It is possible to have a green dog as there are many green pet products on the market today. Raising a green dog can be simple if you follow a few guidelines.

Keep waste out of ground water. That is one of the greenest tasks a pet owner can perform. Dogs, especially large dogs, leave behind a tremendous amount of waste. Instead of leaving it to rot in the run or putting it out in the trash, owners should compost it. Every yard should have a Doggie Dooley. This is a device that owners bury in the ground. It works like a septic tank. Just add enzymes and dog waste. Your pet's mess is turned into harmless eco-friendly "compost". Two sizes of the Doggie Dooley are available. The small version accommodates one large or two small dogs. A larger unit for up to four dogs is also available. This is a must have product for anyone who wants to raise a green dog. The Doggie Dooley is available from PetSmart or PetCo. As of April 2009, PetSmart offers the best pricing.

Raising a green dog is more than just keeping waste in check. To have a green pet, feeding good organic food is a must. Most popular brands contain additives that are harmful to your dog and harmful to the environment. A well fed dog produces less waste. Green dogs eat well and are healthier than their commercial diet counterparts. Healthy skin leads to a healthy coat. Organic dog food is void of many pet allergens. One of the best organic dog foods available is Karma brand dog food and treats from Natura. Healthy pets have fewer allergies, health problems and behavior problems. Many times incessant licking, chewing, and head rubbing is a sign of allergies. High quality pet foods made from organic ingredients are one way to keep a dog healthy and green.

Another to go green with your dog is to purchase natural fiber clothes, collars and leashes for them. Collars made from hemp, cotton or other natural fibers are comfortable and breathable. Doggie sweaters, shirts, and other clothing items should only contain natural fibers. This prevents allergies and contact dermatitis.

Where a dog sleeps is very important. All dog bedding should be from natural fibers. Hemp covers are very durable. Using natural fillers in the bedding instead of foam is preferable and will allow you to wash the bedding. Fillers such as cedar chips, aspen, or other woods are preferable to foam. Cedar naturally repels insects and fleas. When using cedar be sure to keep the bedding in a well ventilated area.

The process of learning how to go green with your dog is a fun experience. Dogs respond well to good healthy food, comfortable accessories and a clean environment. A green pet is a happy pet. Making careful choices about the products we buy is one way of going green. Raising a green dog will benefit everyone.