New research by scientists suggests significant amounts of phosphorous and nitrogen found in dog faeces and urine left behind in nature reserves can result in over-fertilisation of the ground. This can impact varieties of plant and animal life and interactions between species.


Dog faeces and urine left behind in natural habitats can be damaging to the environment, a study suggests. File pic

Dog owners who fail to clean up after their pets are likely harming the environment and wildlife, according to a study.

Scientists have discovered that high levels of nitrogen and phosphorous in urine and dog faeces can lead to over-fertilization of the soil.

This can impact varieties of plant and animal life and interactions between species.

They called for bans or keeping canines on leads in sensitive areas – or alternative “nearby off-leash dog parks”, and highlighted the need for owners to pick-up poo after their pets.

“Dogs bring in significant amounts of nutrients into ecosystems, but this disturbance and its associated effects on biodiversity have been often neglected so far,” they said.

Researchers counted 1,629 dogs in peri-urban forests and nature reserves near Ghent in Belgium over the course of 18 months and estimated they were leaving an annual average of 11kg of nitrogen and 5kg of phosphorous per hectare, which they described as “substantial”.

The study, published in the journal Ecological Solutions and Evidence, said: “Dogs appear to be a non-negligible, substantial and underestimated source of nutrients into peri-urban ecosystems. “

It was stated that it is evident that high levels of fertilization by dogs can have a negative impact on the biodiversity and functioning of ecosystems of species-rich vegetation. This management approach to forest and natural resources often involves using fertilisation.

” Higher nutrient levels can lead to higher plant growth. This is mostly due to a small number of species that are nutrient-demanding and will outcompete specialists. “

The scientists stated that, given the potential high fertility rates of dogs in urban ecosystems by domestic animals, managers of nature reserves should take the steps they suggest to preserve the area.