A survey reveals that over 85% of dog owners in Northern Italy choose eco-friendly accessories. Growing interest in advice on sustainable living with their pets.

TORINO. The love for pets merges with the growing environmental awareness in Northern Italy. According to the Quattrozampeinfiera Observatory, the famous event dedicated to companion animals, dog owners in Turin, Padua, and Milan are increasingly oriented towards sustainable choices for their four-legged friends.

The survey highlighted that over 85% of dog owners in Northern Italy opt for eco-friendly accessories, such as snacks, toys, and other biodegradable, recycled, or plastic-free products. This data demonstrates a strong sensitivity towards the environment and a desire to reduce the ecological impact even in the care of their animals.

But that's not all. The Observatory also found that more than 73% of respondents express a keen interest in receiving advice and suggestions on how to adopt more sustainable behaviors in everyday life with their dog. A clear sign of growing awareness and a desire to do their part to protect the environment.

Habits and sustainable choices

The survey delved into various aspects of the habits of dog owners in Northern Italy, revealing an interesting and insightful picture. First of all, it emerged that almost 86% of respondents own a dog, and that most of them (over 62%) live in a house with a garden, which facilitates a freer management of spaces and outdoor activities.

Regarding nutrition, industrial kibble remains the most chosen food, with 56.8% of preferences. However, 60% of owners say they always consider environmental factors such as the type of packaging or the origin of the ingredients, demonstrating a growing attention to sustainability in this area as well. Alongside kibble, there are wet foods (8.5%), homemade diets (11.9%), BARF (raw meat-based diet – 5.7%), and alternative solutions (17%).

Sustainability also comes into play in the choice of snacks, toys, and accessories. 85% of survey participants say they at least occasionally purchase products in an ecological version (biodegradable, recycled, or plastic-free). However, only one in two claims to find them easily, which highlights the need for greater accessibility and availability of these products on the market.

Biodegradable bags, but there is still plastic

Another important aspect concerns the collection of dog waste. The survey revealed that two out of three owners use biodegradable bags, but almost 30% continue to use traditional plastic. This data suggests that there is still room to raise awareness among owners about the importance of using biodegradable bags to reduce environmental impact.

Regarding disposal, 63% of respondents know where to correctly throw the bags, but over 30% still have doubts, and 7% have never thought about it. Also in this case, it is essential to provide clear and accessible information to promote proper waste disposal.

Sustainable mobility: walking with the dog, but often going by car

The survey also analyzed the travel habits of dog owners. It emerged that the most common way to get around the city with their animal is on foot (60% of respondents). However, 39% still use the car, while the bike is used only by 1% and public transport by none. This data highlights the need to encourage the use of more sustainable means of transport, such as bicycles or public transport, to reduce the environmental impact of travel.

To reduce the impact of travel, 20% always choose local products, while 49% do so sometimes. However, 31% do not consider this aspect.

Ecological shampoos yes, natural antiparasitics less

The theme of sustainability also touches on dog grooming. The survey revealed that 64% of owners use ecological shampoos, while 33% use traditional products and only 3% wash the dog only with water.

The situation is different for antiparasitics: only 19% always choose natural alternatives, 38% do so sometimes, and 43% continue to use conventional products. This data suggests that there is still room to promote the use of natural antiparasitics, which are less harmful to the environment and the health of animals.

Sustainability: a felt (and desired) issue

Overall, the Quattrozampeinfiera Observatory survey highlighted that sustainability is an issue that is increasingly felt and desired by dog owners in Northern Italy. Most respondents believe that a dog affects the environment (23% very much, 35% quite a bit), and over 70% want to receive advice on how to make life with their animal more sustainable.

"The Observatory's survey highlights a panorama of dog owners who are increasingly aware and attentive to environmental sustainability. From the adoption of biodegradable bags to the choice of local and ecological products - says Alessandra Aspesi, Head of Communication of Quattrozampeinfiera - the growing demand for sustainable products and the strong desire to receive advice for a more eco-friendly care of their animals, today represent a great opportunity for the pet market and for institutions. These data confirm the importance of promoting awareness and innovation initiatives, just as we do every year with Quattrozampeinfiera, bringing a clear and concrete message to the Italian territory: educate, promote and publicize behaviors and products that respect the environment and improve the quality of life of animals and people.

A responsible approach that combines love for animals and respect for the planet, confirming that sustainability is no longer a marginal choice, but a value shared by more and more dog owners. Ultimately, the Quattrozampeinfiera Observatory returns us the portrait of a nation that walks - or rather, strolls - with an increasingly green step. Alongside our dogs, every day, we learn to be more aware citizens and consumers. And the future, also thanks to them, can really be more sustainable".

QUATTROZAMPEINFIERA STAGES 2025

Milan - October 4th and 5th - Novegro Exhibition Park

Turin - November 22nd and 23rd - Lingotto Fiere