Is your dog a dumpster diver in the making? You’re certainly not alone. Many dogs find our garbage as enticing as a new toy. In addition to the massive mess they create, it’s simply not safe for pups to rummage through our trash.
From discarded human foods that are toxic for dogs to choking hazards, sharp objects, and discarded products containing harmful chemicals, our waste contains many dangers for our furry friends. Fortunately, you have many solutions to keep your trash undisturbed and your dog safe.
| Kitchen | Dual Bins | Budget | Stylish | Bathroom |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |  |
| iTouchless | simplehuman | simplehuman | Old Captain | Sooyee |
| View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
Why Are Dogs Attracted To Garbage?
Dogs are attracted to garbage because it smells great and often tastes good. Our pups easily identify that the trash can contains tasty morsels, offering a very strong reason for them to want to get into it. Even if the trash does not contain food, the smells can still entice your pup to try and get in. Along with that, dogs enjoy textures, and they can find things in the trash that feel very different and interesting in their mouths.
In some cases, the drive to chew trash is not enticed by food. Some pups chew up and dump out the garbage can out of separation anxiety when their owners are away. Obsessive-compulsive behaviors can also trigger a dog to repeatedly eat trash. Certain medical conditions may also drive the behavior. Pica, for example, is a condition in which dogs chew and eat non-food items.
Garbage gut or garbage toxicosis occurs when a pup eats trash, waste, or food that has been contaminated by bacteria, parasites, or other harmful substances. Garbage gut can cause flatulence, diarrhea, bloody stool, vomiting, fever, dehydration, weakness, appetite loss, abdominal pain, and more. Keeping your pups out of the trash is essential to keeping them healthy.
Best Dog-Proof Kitchen Trash Cans
We chose our top picks based on pet-proof features, trash can quality, ease of use, customer feedback, pricing, and more. Unfortunately, some extremely determined dogs can get around any kind of dog-proofing, but we think these products are your best options.
Best Overall: iTouchless 13-Gallon Sensor Trash Can Review
This iTouchless dog-proof kitchen trash can is an excellent choice for savvy canine scavengers who are determined to get into your garbage. The motion-sensor technology makes it an easy and hygienic way to dispose of your waste with the wave of your hand. But if your pup has figured out how the motion sensor works, it has a simple latch on the top to keep your pup from opening the lid. You can use it with batteries or plug it into the wall with the AC adapter.
- Capacity/Dimensions: 13-gallon capacity; 23.8″H, 10.8″W, and 12.9″L
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Pet-proof lid latch | A bit pricey for a 13-gallon trash can |
| The motion-sensor lid makes trash disposal easy and hygienic | Requires batteries or electrical outlet (4 D batteries not included) |
| Internal carbon filter keeps odors contained | Some complaints that it stopped working after a couple of years |
| Trash bag retainer ring keeps bags from slipping down into the can | |
| Fingerprint-proof stainless steel | |
| 1-year warranty |
Price
Best Dual Compartment: simplehuman 15.3 Gallon Dual Bin Step Can Review
Do you want a single can to hold your garbage and recyclables? This simplehuman dual compartment could be your ideal solution. This durable stainless steel can has an extra-wide strong pedal that’s harder for dogs to maneuver. At 21 pounds, the can isn’t easy for many dogs to knock over. Each bin holds about 7.5 gallons, so it may not be convenient for large families, but many customers love the dual bins.
- Capacity/Dimensions: 15.3-gallon capacity; 22″L x 14.2″W x 25.8″H
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Heavy-duty can and step pedal | Expensive |
| All-in-one trash and recycling bin | Requires custom liners for best fit |
| Slow-lid closing technology | A few complaints that it was delivered dented |
| Built-in liner storage with easy accessibility inside the can | |
| Modern, sleek design with fingerprint-proof coating | |
| 1-year warranty |
Price
Best Budget-Friendly: simplehuman 13 Gallon Semi-Round With Slide Lock Review
This simplehuman kitchen trash can combines affordable pricing, an easy-to-use step foot pedal, and a sturdy lid slide-lock to keep your pup out of your garbage. Although it’s made of plastic instead of stainless steel, it still has a stylish look and comes in five attractive finishes to match your kitchen decor (black, gray, mocha, stone, and white). You can leave the lid up for as long as you need, and it closes slowly and quietly when you’re done. And you can use generic 13-gallon trash bags or liners with this can.
- Capacity/Dimensions: 13-gallon capacity; 18.7″L x 14.4″W x 26.2″H
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent value | A few complaints that the lock is a bit difficult to secure and release |
| Sturdy lid lock and foot pedal | |
| Users said it’s very effective in keeping dogs out, even when tipped over | |
| Attractive design and finishes for a plastic trash can | |
| 5-year warranty |
Price
Most Stylish: OLD CAPTAIN Double Tilt-Out Trash Cabinet Review
If you don’t have room in your kitchen cabinets to fit trash cans, this stylish, free-standing cabinet is a fantastic option to hide your garbage from your pup (and from your sight). It comes in a single or double mock-cabinet design that tilts out your trash can(s) for easy access. And it accommodates up to two 10-gallon bins (not included). It’s made of MDF (medium-density fiberboard) and comes in two finishes: white and dark brown. You can also use this product for dirty laundry or in a nursery for stinky diapers.
Capacity/Dimensions:
- Single: 10-gallon capacity; 37.5″L x 15″W x 32″H
- Double: 20-gallon capacity; 15″L x 20″W x 32″H
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent dog-proof option | On the pricey side |
| Looks just like a stylish kitchen cabinet | Must purchase bin(s) separately |
| Has built-in negative ion, deodorizing function | The ion/deodorizing function requires a plug-in outlet |
| Can add extra counter space for small appliances (or even a small island with the double) | |
| Customers say it’s easy to assemble |
Price
Best For Bathrooms & Bedrooms: Sooyee 2.4 Gallon With Press-Top Lid Review
This Sooyee waste bin is our top pick for the best dog-proof bathroom trash can. Many pup parents say the press-top lid is quite effective in deterring their garbage surfers. And it’s made of strong polypropylene plastic that holds up against super chewers. This can also features a slim, modern design that fits perfectly into narrow spaces. It comes in four colors (white, black, gray, and a fun bright orange).
- Capacity/Dimensions: 2.4-gallon capacity; 12.79″W x 5.74″D X 12.44″H
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Press-top lid deters many trash divers | Some dogs can figure out how to open it |
| Made of strong, durable plastic | A few complaints that the latch breaks after consistent use |
| The removable interior bucket makes trash disposal and cleaning easy | |
| Fits into very narrow spaces | |
| Stylish, modern design |
Price
How To Keep Your Dog Out Of The Trash
I often hear the question, “What can I do to keep my dog out of the trash?” Placing your trash can out of reach is the ideal solution to deter your dumpster diver, but in many cases, that may not be realistic. Another option is to use a baby or pet gate if your room’s layout allows it. In addition to purchasing a dog-proof garbage can, here are some other methods you can try to keep your pup from invading your trash.
Dog Trash Can Deterrents
- Take your trash out more often, especially before leaving your pup alone in your house. Liners can help odor control, and regular cleaning will remove the lingering scents that draw your pup in.
- Some dogs rummage through trash out of boredom, so keeping your pup mentally stimulated with interactive toys and brain games may help.
- Use a child-proof lock on your trash can, like this Jool Baby Products Child Safety Strap Lock, which sticks to nearly any kind of surface. Although not convenient for your access, some pup parents find that this is the only method that helps.
- Spray your trash with a non-toxic deterrent, such as a bitter apple spray or Dog MACE. Some dogs find the odor of these sprays extremely unpleasant.
- Compost your food scraps to minimize the lure of your trash. We recommend this Vitamix FoodCycler, which turns food waste into fertilizer in just a few hours.
- Make sure you secure your outdoor trash cans from your pup if he has access when playing outside. The Doggy Dare Trash Can Lock has a bungee-cord design that comes in several sizes. It also helps keep out raccoons, bears, and other wildlife.
Your dog eating trash carries the risk of sickness, obstruction, or injury from ingesting a foreign object. These can be life-threatening situations, which is a huge motivator to never let your pup eat trash.
Getting pet insurance may be worthwhile if you have a curious dog who likes to explore the trash or other inviting no-nos. Pet insurance covers many illnesses and accidents, including foreign body ingestion, which can result in emergency surgery and high vet bills. Our pet insurance reviews include the basics of pet insurance, our top picks, and information on nearly 30 providers.
Can You Train A Dog To Stay Out Of The Trash?
Many dogs can be trained to keep out of the trash, but it takes a lot of effort and patience. If you feel like you need some professional help with trash-can boundary training or any other training needs, you don’t have to fork out a fortune for a professional dog trainer. Some excellent, less-expensive options include online dog training courses and dog training mobile apps. Some of these even give you live access to certified dog trainers to help you tackle specific problems.
Have you had any experience with a dog eating trash? I’d love to hear how you solved the problem in the comments.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Sally has over 20 years of experience in human health sciences communications, including 10 years as an expert on pet health conditions and treatment. Sally has researched and reviewed hundreds of different dog products and conditions. She’s part of a team of dog specialists at Canine Journal who have over a decade of experience in researching, testing, and writing about everything you need to know to keep your pup healthy and happy.
