Compostable or Degradable Dog Waste Bags - Which One Should I Choose?

There's a very common misconception today that compostable bags are far and away the best and only bag for disposing of dog waste.  Compostable bags are indeed very good for the environment, but can leave heavy metals behind after they have degraded.  They are typically made from renewable resources such as corn, which is good.  However, by manufacturing dog waste bags from resources such as corn, we take away food sources from humans and animals, thereby driving prices up in the process.  Finally, compostable bags can also emit methane upon degradation, which is purported to contribute to global warming.  If choosing a compostable dog waste bag, be sure to choose one that has been approved by BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute).

Degradable plastic bags are made from petroleum and will degrade over time just like compostable dog waste bags, but they can also leave behind some residues.  They are not made from renewable resources and can undergo changes to their chemical makeup during degradation.  However, they do disintegrate and will not last for hundreds of years like standard plastic dog waste bags.  Plus, they are significantly more affordable than compostable bags and are usually much stronger too.

Unless you're planning on properly composting your dog's waste, buying and using compostable is overkill and extremely costly.  A compostable dog waste bag costs, on average, about 4-5 times more than a degradable bag.  So, if you're used to paying about 3 cents for a degradable dog waste bag, you can expect to pay at least 12 to 15 cents for a compostable bag.

If you are indeed composting your dog's waste, then compostable dog waste bags are, without a doubt, the best decision for you.  Just be aware of the cost difference you'll be incurring.  If you're not composting your dog's waste and just want the most economical, but earthy friendly dog waste bag, you'll want to go with a degradable bag.

Both compostable and degradable dog waste bags have their postitive and negative attributes.  It's up to your personal needs and your budget to determine which one is the best choice for you and your dog.