Pet dogs have ‘extensive and multifarious’ impact on environment, new research finds

A simple way to mitigate against the worst environmental effects of dogs is to keep them leashed in areas where restrictions apply, according to new research. Photograph: Ian Francis stock/Alamy

Dogs have “extensive and multifarious” environmental impacts, disturbing wildlife, polluting waterways and contributing to carbon emissions, new research has found.

An Australian review of existing studies has argued that “the environmental impact of owned dogs is far greater, more insidious, and more concerning than is generally recognised”.