Best Dog Proof Trash Cans Top 10

Reviewed By Kyoko •  Updated: 11/12/19 •  13 min read
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If you’re the pet parent of a dog, then you may be familiar with the fact that dogs enjoy rummaging through trash. Your fur baby may be one that sneaks up to the waste basket when no one’s looking. He then enjoys a good rifling through whatever the trash bin’s holding. Later, you come back into the room and find garbage strewn all over your kitchen, with raw chicken bits near the sink, a butter wrapper smeared across the floor and maybe a leftover piece of pizza now left without its meat topping.

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Dogs enjoy garbage, which seems very strange to us. We’re not talking about homeless or wild dogs that use trash as their main food source. We’re talking about healthy domesticated dogs who get regular meals every day. Even so, they simply are driven to dig in the trash. We’ll take a look at what drives a dog to this trash strewing, bin digging habit and what you can do to keep your fur baby out of the trash and what to look for in dog proof trash cans. Then we’ll cover the top 10 dog proof trash cans to help keep your dog and other critters out of the trash.

What to Look for in a Dog Proof Trash Can

When it comes to a dog proof bin, there are some features you can look for to keep your canine companion from his trashy habit:

Strong & sturdy materials: look for trash cans and waste baskets made from strong, sturdy materials. Look for materials your pup can’t chew through, otherwise the bin won’t last too long.

Stay-on lids: look for cans and bins that have lids that will stay put, even when the most obsessed trash-digging dog is determined to get inside. Dogs are smart and can figure out that the lid will come off when they knock the bin over. So, be sure to look for lids that can’t be knocked or chewed off.

Heaviest bins: look for bins that are large and heavy, as they’ll make it a little more challenging for your fur baby to get at the trash. This applies to indoor or outdoor trash baskets and bins.

One note—be sure to avoid trash cans that have motion-detector lids. Dogs are smart and will be able to figure out how to open these lids with their noses, etc!

Five Best Indoor Dog Proof Waste Baskets

Keeping those features in mind, let’s look at some of the best indoor dog proof waste baskets for your home!

1. Simplehuman 6 Liter (1.6 gallon) Stainless Steel Compact Semi-Round Trash Can

The simplehuman dog proof bin is a great option for small, indoor spaces. This wastebasket is made of brushed stainless steel and fits in with almost any type of home décor. It’s great for bathrooms, offices and other small rooms. The basket features a removable inner basket that makes emptying the trash quick, easy and clean. This bin is chew-proof and can only be opened by using the steel pedal, which is a help for keeping your fur baby out of the trash.

2. Rubbermaid Commercial Defenders Front Step-On Trash Can

If you have a very determined dog that wants to dig through the trash, especially a big dog, then this may be your best option. The Rubbermaid Commercial Defenders trash can isn’t recommended specifically to keep dogs out of the trash; however, it’s size and weight will make it harder for very determined dogs. This trash receptacle contains an inner galvanized steel liner (perfect for hazardous waste) and uses a foot pedal for easy, handsfree access. This waste bin is large—weighing in at 35 lbs. and standing 32.3 inches high. This trash can is designed for commercial waste but has been used by pet parents who have dogs that are easily able to access the garbage. This bin will definitely be more challenging—even for larger dogs.

3. Behrens 6110 10-Gallon Locking Lid Can

The Behrens can is made of galvanized steel—making this a great chew-proof option, even for larger dogs. Another feature is the locking lid—your dog won’t be able to open it! While this isn’t marketed as a trash can, you could definitely use it for that purpose. The can holds up to 10 gallons and also features a strong handle—you don’t have to worry about the handle being too flimsy when you take out the trash. Not only can you use this can for trash, but you could also use it to store your pup’s food to keep it safe from his browsing for food!

4. BINO Stainless Steel 1.3 Gallon/5 Liter Round Oscar Step Trash Can

Here’s another steel trash can that can keep your dog from dumpster diving. While this trash can is small, it’s made from stainless steel that’s strong and sturdy. Your pup won’t chew through that! The bin features an inner, removable bucket (with handle) to make it easy to take the trash out, while keeping your hands clean. In addition, the BINO trash can is opened with an Oscar step, making it difficult for your pup to get into. The BINO is perfect for smaller areas, such as under the kitchen sink or in the kitchen, the office, laundry or bathroom—anywhere you need to save space. Your pup will have a hard time getting into the trash with a BINO around!

5. Simplehuman 45 Liter/11.9 Gallon Stainless Steel Butterfly Lid Step Trash Can

Here’s another option from simplehuman. This stainless steel trash can features a butterfly lid that makes it difficult for your dog to get into the trash. This waste basket features a steel pedal to open the lid and the can’s small footprint makes it perfect for any area, including those areas where you need to save space. This is a great dog proof trash can for kitchen. The lid is silent when closing and the outside is fingerprint-proof, which also make it nose print proof. This trash can will keep your dog safe and away from temping trash.

Five Best Outdoor Dog Proof Garbage Bins

Now we’ll take a look at the 5 best outdoor garbage bins to keep dogs  and other critters out of your trash.

1. Suncast Outdoor Trash Hideaway

This trash can offers a decorative touch for your yard, deck or patio. The lid latches, which is a great feature to keep your pup from digging in the trash. Not only that, but this bin will keep other critters out the trash, too. The Suncast Outdoor trash bin is easy to assemble—it only takes five minutes! The bin holds up to 30 gallons of trash, making this a great dog proof option for your yard.

2. Rubbermaid Animal Stopper Trash Can

The Rubbermaid trash can offers a lid defense system which is supposed to be very difficult for animals to break. However, the lid does feature quick-release latches for humans—which makes it a great choice if you need a dog proof trash bin outside. This durable trash can withstand freezing temperatures and intense UV rays. Keep in mind that this is a plastic trash container. If a crack does develop, it’s possible your fur baby or other animal(s) could use the crack to chew the trash can open and get to the garbage inside. This trash holds 32 gallons—so is a great choice for use outdoors for all types of refuse.

3. Toter Bear Resistant Residential Heavy Duty Trash Can

The Toter Bear Resistant trash can is an excellent option of you need something larger and more durable. This makes a great outdoor garbage bin, and is perfect for curbside garbage collection. The lid features a critter-tight lock, with a double-walled lid and steel-reinforced rim. If bears can’t get it open, chances are your canine companion won’t be able to get into it, either. These garbage bins are made durable and tough enough to withstand clawing and chewing from bears and other animals. While this bin looks a little bulky and big, it’s made to be easy to handle and move; they’re also steady and stable in wind and other weather. These bins come with a 3-year warranty and comes in various sizes and colors.

4. TuffBoxx Bruin Animal Resistant Storage Solution

If you have a major problem with dogs and other animals getting into the trash, then you might consider this option. The TuffBoxx Bruin Animal Resistant Storage Solution is actually a box you can use to store trash cans or full garbage bags inside. The box is made of galvanized steel, making this a strong and durable storage option for your trash. Not only that, but it’s possible to even set the box onto a concrete base to make it even more difficult for animals to access and move.

5. Simplehuman 40 Liter/10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can

Here’s another trash can from simplehuman that can be used indoors or out. This slim trash can is great for tight spaces and features a secure slide lock, which makes it difficult for dogs and other critters to open. This sturdy bin features built-in wheels that make it easy to move the bin where you need it. Unlock the top and simply use the pedal step to open the trash can—keeps your hands clean. This trash can comes with a 5-year warranty, too!

We’ve taken a look at both indoor and outdoor trash cans to keep your pet out of the trash. Now let’s take a look at some other options you have to keep your fur baby from getting into the garbage.

How to Make a Dog Proof Trash Can

If you don’t want to buy a new trash can or waste basket, we’ve got some ideas you can use to make a dog proof trash can DIY!

If you have a trash can or waste basket with a flat lid, then try putting something heavy on the lid. You could try putting a heavy book, a flat rock or heavy brick on the lid to keep your pet out. However, the main problem with this idea is that the dog can knock the trash can over and the heavy object could fall on him, causing a serious injury. This is also not a recommended method if you have small, young children at home, as they could be hurt if the heavy weight falls on them. Use a lid lock! For outdoor garbage bins with lids, you could also try a lid lock. Here’s one to check out:

Bin Strap Garbage Lock Trash Can Lid Strap Garbage Can Security System One Piece

This universal garbage can strap fits all types of standard city garbage can lids (up to 96 gallons). The only way you can get into this is by using the quick-release buckle on the strap. Attaching is easy with stainless steel crews. The strap is made of UV-resistant webbing and will keep the lid closed, so you pup and other animals can’t get at the trash.

Another option is to put the garbage can or wastebasket where your dog can’t get at it. Keep the kitchen trash under the sink, but then be sure to use a lock system on the cabinet door to keep your dog out. Another idea is to put the trash in a closet that your dog can’t open. You might also consider wall-mounting your trash basket, especially if you have a larger dog. We hope this guide has given you some constructive ideas on how to keep your precious fur baby from getting into the garbage. These options will keep him safe and healthy, while keeping your home and yard clean, too!

Why Do Dogs Dig in the Trash?

This frustrating, gross (in our eyes) habit could have originated from ancient times—when dogs were first domesticated. Before dogs became domesticated, they were drawn to human settlements by the trash heaps. Think about this for a minute and it’s quite logical. The wild dogs would use these garbage dumps as a food source. This is quite natural. Wild animals do this today—consider bears, racoons and other animals who dig through our trash. So, this habit probably first developed before dogs were domesticated.

These days, dogs seem to be almost driven to search through the trash for that favorite morsel you wouldn’t let them have. Why? This habit can be caused by many underlying issues:

These are a few of the reasons dogs like to dig through the waste basket. It can be like a treasure hunt for your dog, with a yummy treat hidden somewhere in the bin! The problem with this habit is the mess—sometimes our pups can make a real mess of the trash. However, garbage can contain things that are harmful for your dog, too. Food wrappers may contain plastic or metal, garbage can spoil, etc. Your dog could become quite sick from his dumpster diving habit.

There’s a conditions vets call “garbage toxicosis” or “garbage gut,” which is a lot like food poisoning for humans. One of the main causes of this condition is moldy foods—specifically the mold Penicillium spp. Eating this mold can cause digestive issues such as diarrhea, fever, vomiting and even seizures. It can also lead to death. Garbage contains a vast array of toxins, fungi, bacteria and more. Doesn’t that sound just yummy? This is where finding the right garbage cans and waste baskets come into play. Keeping your dog from digging in the garbage will help avoid those messes, while also keeping him healthy.

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Kyoko

Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!

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