The 5 Best Dog-Proof Trash Cans To Keep Your Pup Out of the Garbage

• This review contains affiliate links. Read more here.
• Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

Keeping your dog out of the trash can feel like a never-ending battle, especially if they view it as an all-you-can-eat buffet. Aside from the headache of trash strewn across your home, rummaging through the garbage can also be dangerous for your dog. They risk eating toxic food or ingesting sharp or large objects that could hurt or block their intestinal tract.

Trash foraging can also create hazards for other household members, adds ​​Irith Bloom (CPDT-KSA, CDBC), a dog trainer and behavior consultant at The Sophisticated Dog. For instance, another pet or even a child might eat something dangerous that’s strewn about.

Every dog has their own strategy for getting into the trash. Some cleverly nudge the top off with their nose, while others use their body weight to knock the can over. The challenge lies in finding a garbage bin that can withstand your dog’s unique approach to retrieving trash treasures.

Here’s what to know about finding a dog-proof trash can that can outsmart even the most motivated dog.

Types of Trash Cans

Knowing your dog’s unique skill set when it comes to trash break-ins will help you choose the best dog-proof trash can. Below, we break down the key criteria for our five top models.

Best for Kitchens: iTouchless Motion Sensor Trash Can

This 18-gallon touchless trash helps keep out even the cleverest pets, making it an excellent dog-proof kitchen trash can. A motion sensor activates the lid, and the bin features an “off” mode that locks the lid when humans don’t need to use it. This combination makes the iTouchless especially difficult for dogs to crack. Even if your dog has figured out how to operate a pedal or can easily tip a can over, they can’t bypass a locking lid.

The butterfly lid is flush with the can, and the two wings meet in the middle, making it harder for dogs to access. It’s also ideal for low-clearance situations, such as under kitchen countertops. Like other iTouchless models, this garbage can features an odor-reducing carbon filter to neutralize food smells and discourage curious sniffers from investigating.

Standing at 29 inches tall, the top is also out of reach for many pups, even big dogs like a 100-pound Rottweiler, whose owner was thrilled to report has since given up on trash diving. While many pet parents have found success with this model, it may not be entirely effective for dogs who can knock it over and pop off the lid.

At a glance:

• Size: 29″ H x 16.2″ W x 10.5″ D
• Capacity: 18 gallons
• Price: $130
• Strengths: Odor absorbing, tall, and a motion-sensor lock for kitchen scavengers

Best for Small Dogs: Simplehuman Touch-Bar Dual Compartment Trash Can

Simplehuman has quite a loyal following among pet parents. It’s a pricey brand, but many swear by the longevity and performance of their products. (Plus, this model comes with a 10-year warranty.) Among their impressive lineup, this dual-compartment dog-proof trash can holds just under 13 gallons and separates trash from recyclables.

The bin features a touch bar on the lid rather than the base, which is too high for petite pups to reach (28 inches or 36.5 inches with the lid raised). Like the iTouchless, it features a flush lid to keep your pooch from nudging it open with their noses. It weighs just under 18 pounds, which should be plenty heavy to keep smaller pups from tipping it over.

While the height and solid construction make the Simpehuman an ideal pet-proof trash can for small dogs, larger breeds may be able to tip it over more easily.

At a glance:

• Size: 28″ H x 19.7″ W x 11.4″ D
• Capacity: 12.7 gallons
• Price: $180
• Strengths: Dual compartment, touch bar on top, tall enough to keep small dogs out

Best for Large Dogs: Simplehuman 13-Gallon Semi-Round Trash Can with Slide Lock

Securing your trash against large, rambunctious dogs can be tough. But pet parents of big breeds say this locking trash can, also by Superhuman, is not only dog-proof but also Husky-proof, passing the ultimate test.

While the step lever is at the bottom of the bin, the sliding lock is on top and secures the lid firmly in place. The slow-close lid is also quiet and less likely to draw your curious dog’s attention.

This indoor trash can is so dog-proof that it’s withstood a 70-pound Pit Bull’s destructive chewing, multiple Doodle treasure-hunting efforts, and many Husky dumpster diving attempts. (Though it’s important to clarify that no trash can is 100% Husky-proof.) An added win? Dog guardians with young children say it keeps curious toddlers out, too.

Dogs hate this garbage bin, and pet parents love it. However, some reviewers note that the lock works so well that it can be difficult for even them to finagle it open at first.

At a glance:

• Size: 26.5″ H x 18.9″ W x 14″ D
• Capacity: 13 gallons
• Price: $60
• Strengths: Secure lock holds up to clever dogs and big breeds like Huskies, Pitties, and Doodles

Best for Bathrooms: Kohler 2.5-Gallon Step-On Trash Can

Got a tissue snatcher? This sleek Kohler trash can is compact enough to fit conveniently next to your toilet or other tight spaces. It’s also well-suited for an office space or any other area that requires a smaller footprint.

The foot pedal mechanism enables hands-free operation, while the snug-fitting lid prevents dogs from easily nudging it open. Dog guardians note that the lid sits flush with the top of the can, making it hard to open. Some even say it’s so secure they need to use their fingernails to open the lid without the foot pedal. The tight seal also keeps stinky smells from drawing the attention of your pup.

While it is on the pricier side, many find this dog-proof trash can worth the investment for the bathroom. Just keep in mind that if your dog is clever enough to master a foot pedal, you might have a new challenge on your hands.

At a glance:

• Size: 12″ H x 6.5″ W x 15″ D
• Capacity: 2.5 gallons
• Price: $80
• Strengths: Snug-fitting lid on small dog-proof trash can for bathrooms

Best for Outside: Keter Baltimore Resin Outdoor Kitchen Trash Can

For dogs that like to go dumpster diving outside, an outdoor dog-proof trash can is a must.

Pet parents appreciate that this outdoor garbage can is tall and has a sturdy base to keep it from toppling over. A double-lid enclosure keeps smells and trash inside while providing excellent protection from animals, including determined dogs.

Constructed with resin, this outdoor bin is designed to withstand the elements. It also holds a substantial amount of trash, with a capacity of 38 gallons. And if your garbage bags break open, no worries. The bottom has a pull-out drip tray for easy cleaning.

At a glance:

• Size: 34.4″ H x 16.14″ W x 16.14″ D
• Capacity: 38 gallons
• Price: $90
• Strengths: Double lid keeps outdoor trash secure, drip tray for easy cleanup, and tall and sturdy

Other Solutions for Trash-Eating Dogs

Upgrading your trash can is a good place to start, but it won’t always solve the problem entirely, says Bloom. “No trash can is totally pet-proof,” she acknowledges. “I’ve seen dogs who can break into anything.” (We see you, Huskies.)

Fortunately, there are a few other ways to prevent your dog from getting into the garbage. And it all starts with a solid management plan.

1. Keep trash out of reach  

Hands down, the best way to prevent trash raids is to keep the garbage inaccessible, says Bloom. Store your trash can in a location your dog can’t reach, such as a garage, on a high countertop, or in a pull-out cabinet. 

2. Set up physical barriers  

Similarly, you can block your dog’s access to trash bins with a physical barrier. “You can put it behind a gate, keep your dog in an ex-pen away from the trash can, or even put the trash can in the ex-pen to prevent access!” says Bloom. This is especially important for times when you’re not home to supervise. 

If you opt for the dog gate route, Bloom recommends using one with a pass-through door for people so you don’t have to take the gate down when entering the area. 

3. Use locks

A simple solution is to attach child safety locks on both sides of the bin. There are also locks designed specifically to keep out curious pets. These prevent your dog from accessing trash, even if they manage to tip over the bin. 

4. Use a heavy object on top or weights at the bottom

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, try placing a heavy object on top of your trash can. A thick textbook or a few heavy bricks could work. 

You can also make the bin harder to tip over by adding weights to the bottom. Heavy items like stones, bricks, or sand can add enough weight to keep your dog from flipping the can over. 

5. Use pet-proof trash can holders  

Another way to keep dogs from knocking over the bin is to use a pet-proof trash can holder. These are designed to keep the can upright by anchoring one end to the wall and attaching the other to your trash bin. 

6. Provide mental stimulation  

Boredom can lead dogs to find their own fun, and that includes investigating the trash. Ensure your dog receives ample mental enrichment through regular walks, engaging toys, and interactive playtime. Puzzle feeders and long-lasting chews can also keep your pup’s mind busy and satisfy their natural curiosity, making them less likely to trash surf for fun.

7. Make sure your dog is well-exercised

A fulfilled pup is a happy pup, and they’ll be less tempted to get into the trash when they’ve had a good workout. Incorporate regular walks, play sessions, and trips to the dog park to let them run around and socialize with other dogs.

8. Implement training techniques  

Training goes hand in hand with the above solutions. Bloom notes that a professional trainer can help you teach alternative behaviors to trash raiding. “For example, the dog could be taught to lie on a bed or mat for treats, praise, and play.” You can also use a “leave it” cue to discourage your dog’s interest in the trash can. 

Bloom also suggests teaching your dog to stay out of the kitchen or any room with tempting trash. “The dog learns that they get good stuff—treats, praise, petting—only when they are outside the kitchen,” she explains. After all, reinforcement drives behavior!