Frequently Asked Questions

Why thegoodpaw is the best?

We claim to be the best through a commitment to Response, Value, and Impact. By treating our customers as a community, we continuously evolve our compostable bags based on real-world performance. We bridge the gap between sustainability and affordability, offering fair, competitive pricing that makes choosing the planet a practical reality for every pet owner. You talk, we listen and let our bags do the rest.

How do I compost pet waste at home?

If you already have a home compostable setup, upgrading to a twin barrel compost bin is easiest. You can also use dedicated pet waste composting kits. To build one from scratch, you will need:

  • A bucket
  • Drill bit
  • Shovel
  • Bokashi starter

How does thegoodpaw subscription work?

Easy. Select the quantity you want at the frequency you want it as and we'll do the rest. Your bags will arrive at your doorstep on time every time. You won't need to worry about running out again. 

What size and thickness are thegoodpaw bags?

We offer two types: Handled bags (17cm x 33cm) and Non-handled bags (23cm x 33cm). All bags are 20 microns thick, providing a reliable barrier for odour control and a premium feel.

Why is thegoodpaw not stocked everywhere?

We believe in quality over profits. By avoiding the aggressive push into major pet chains, supermarkets and vets like our competitors we keep our overheads low and our prices honest. Instead of competing for crowded shelf space, we strategically partner with select retailers who align with our ethos. This ensures that every time you buy a thegoodpaw bag, you’re supporting a shared vision of better, not just a bigger bottom line.

Are thegoodpaw bags really home compostable?

Yes! Our bags are certified to New Zealand recognized standards, including AS 5810 (ABAP 20016), EN13432 (7P0477), and TUV Home Compost (S0329).

What are emergency rolls?

Think of these as your ultimate backup plan. Stash them in your car, handbag, or at your friends place for those times you forget your primary bags or just like to be well prepared. They’re a convenient sized roll designed to save you when you find yourself in a "oh shit" moment! 

What is the difference between degradable/biodegradable plastic and compostable?

In New Zealand, many 'biodegradable' bags are simply standard plastic with chemical additives. These agents cause the plastic to fragment into harmful microplastics that pollute our waterways and damage the ecosystem. thegoodpaw is different: our bags are 100% certified home compostable, ensuring they return to the earth without leaving a trace.

How should I store the bags and how long do they last?

thegoodpaw bags last for 12 months after purchase when stored in cool, dry conditions, away from the moisture and heat that triggers the breakdown process.

What happens if the bags end up in a landfill?

While composting is best, our bags are capable of mesophilic digestion by anaerobic bacteria found in non-compacted landfills. They fully break down into organic matter rather than turning into microplastics.

How long will shipping take?

All orders are dispatched from Auckland. We aim to deliver your order within 3 working days. Rural deliveries will be longer. During busy periods there may be a delay while we and NZ Post work through large volumes of orders.

What is the science behind the breakdown of thegoodpaw bags?

Composting is essentially "controlled farming" of microorganisms. While it looks like a pile of waste, it is actually a high-speed biological reactor powered by bacteria and fungi. To keep these microorganisms working efficiently, four primary scientific conditions must be balanced: Nutrients, Oxygen, Moisture, and Temperature.

Dog and cat waste are very high in nitrogen, roughly 8:1. To compost it effectively without it becoming a stinky, slimy mess, you need to add in carbon rich material such as sawdust, straw, or shredded paper to balance the ratio back to 30:1.

Keep in mind that composting pet waste introduces pathogens and parasites, so do not mix organic compost with pet waste compost. Click here to read our pUpdates!