11 best dog proof trash can [2023] keep your house clean

Does your dog love nose through the trash? Many people have a hard time keeping their dogs away from garbage. Many pet parents can’t figure out why their dogs try to knock over trash cans. But there’s an easy solution dog proof trash can.

Seriously…You don’t have to feel hopeless! Almost all dogs enjoy exploring the surprise treasures in our garbage.

Selection of dog proof trash cans

In this article, we’ll review trash cans and give you a selection of products pets find hard or impossible to open. Dog owners sometimes find that the trash in the bin has magically transferred all around your home. The dog proof garbage can is a simple solution from small sizes up to 16-gallon trash cans. Here are the links directly to products or you can dig in and search through the reviews below:

1. iTouchless 13 Gallon Pet-Proof Sensor Trash Can with AbsorbX Odor Filter
2. AmazonBasics 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close Trash Can with Foot Pedal
3. Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection
4. SONGMICS (60L) 16 Gal Dual Trash Garbage Can
5. Simplehuman 4.5 Liter / 1.2 Gallon Round Bathroom Step Trash Can
6. iTouchless 16 Gallon Kitchen Dual Step Trash Can & Recycle Bin
7. Simplehuman 50 Liter/13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can
8. Rubbermaid Classic 13G Classic Black Step-On Trash Can with Stainless-Steel Pedal
9. NINESTARS DZT-50-9 Automatic Touchless Infrared Motion Sensor Trash Can
10. EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can
11. Amazon Basics 10 Liter / 2.6 Gallon Soft-Close Trash Can with Foot Pedal

Key points from living with my dogs

In my experience, most trash cans with a lid that you open with your foot will do the trick of keeping the dog out. I have two Chihuahuas and they are too small to do anything about the trash can.

With bigger dogs in my experience, the best solution to have a dog-proof trash can is to just put it behind a door your dog can’t open. For example, food waste goes in the bin under the sink.

Another thing I have seen dogs do with an unopenable trash can is to knock them over and then it’s much easier to get into it. Put your trash can in a location where it’s harder to knock over, in a corner for example.

The third and the most important thing is that you can have your open trash can in the middle of the room as long as you don’t put anything edible in it. So, office trash cans are usually safe. Don’t put food waste in a trash can that is accessible to your dog.

Are there dog proof trash cans?

When you are trying to keep your dog away from trash, you can consider various solutions. One of the best solutions is a dog proof trash can. Choosing a good dog proof trash can is the best way to ensure your pup remains healthy and free of germs.

Why do dogs knock over trash cans?

It is totally understandable why dogs knock over trash cans. There are many reasons why a dog may attempt to knock over trash cans.

• Trash often contains food items or wrappers that smell just like food. That smell is a powerful stimulus for any dog.
• Often the trash items a dog pulls out may retain some food odors on them.
• Some dogs just learn that if something smells like trash, it might probably be edible.
• Sometimes a dog may pull items out of the trashcan just to chew on them but not necessarily ingest them.
• A hungry or greedy dog that is far from mealtime might knock over trash cans. They simply try to retrieve items out of the trash to eat.

Sometimes, dogs find things in the trashcan that may be harmful or even deadly. There is a chance of GI upset like vomiting or diarrhea. Wrappers and plastic items can create blockages in a dog’s intestinal tract. The bacteria found in trash items can cause infections or expose your fur buddy to numerous parasites. Sometimes, trash holds expired medications that may be deadly for your dog. All these require an expensive trip to the vet, at the very least.

What is the best dog proof trash can?

Many trash cans will stop your curious dog from breaching the garbage. We have compiled a list of the best dog proof trash cans that are available on the market. Let’s look at all the features and what makes them a great choice to buy.

Top 11 Best Dog Proof Trash Can

1. Our no. 1 pick: iTouchless 13 Gallon Pet-Proof Sensor Trash Can with AbsorbX Odor Filter

The brand that stands out boasts all the best features for dog proof trash cans is the iTouchless pet-proof sensor trash can. The locking mechanism gives you convenience while you also keep curious dogs out of the trash! The lid opens automatically with just the motion of your hand. The slim design fits into any space perfectly.

The AbsorbX Activated Carbon odor filter helps to absorb and neutralize trash odors. The trash can doesn’t come with a plastic liner. A stylish design is perfect for any modern indoor décor. It is a must for a healthier, fresh, and clean-smelling home.

The iTouchless pet-proof sensor trash bin maintains a great rating from more than 43,000 customer reviews.

Key features:

• Brand: iTouchless
• Material: stainless steel
• Finish Type: Brushed
• Capacity: 13 Gallons
• 100% automatic lid
• Odor control system with absorbs filter
• Lid Sensor Type: VisioSense Infrared
• 2 power options

Pros:

• Customers are praising this trash can for its sleek and stylish design
• Buyers have mentioned that it is easy to use and clean
• These are locking trash cans

Cons:

• Many low reviews stated that the D batteries and AC cord are not included
• Some buyers found the plastic lid to be lightweight and flimsy

 

2. AmazonBasics 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close Trash Can with Foot Pedal

AmazonBasics dog proof trash can is a rectangular stainless steel can. It’s sturdy and durable enough to keep your pup out of the trash. The trash features a soft-close lid with a manual foot pedal opening mechanism. The soft-close lid reduces noise from the opening and closing of the lid.

AmazonBasics dog proof trash can is fingerprint-proof and has a durable stainless steel exterior. There’s a heavy-duty removable plastic interior bucket for convenient waste disposal. The garbage can’s lid features a stay-open mode to easily remove and replace trash bags.

AmazonBasics dog proof trash can maintains a great rating from thousands of customer reviews.

Key features:

• Brand: Amazon Basics
• Color: Satin Nickel
• Capacity: 13 Gallons
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Finish Type: Brushed
• Fingerprint-proof
• Smudge resistant
• Stay-open mode for easily removing or replacing liners

Pros:

• Most buyers love it because of its clean and sturdy construction
• Buyers have acknowledged the hands-free convenience and ease of use.
• Customers have mentioned the trash can requires little maintenance to retain that wonderful glow.
• The plastic inner liner is easy to clean

Cons:

• One problem highlighted by buyers is that the trash can showed up with multiple dents in it.

 

3. Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection

Want to take fewer trips taking out the trash? Well, Glad Stainless Steel dog proof trash is a perfect choice for large families. It fits 50 percent more trash compared to a regular trash can. There is no need for an inner trash can liner as bag rings keep the trash bag slack neatly tucked in and secure in place.

It features a controlled and quiet lid closure to avoid banging each time the lid closes. There is a storage compartment for storing extra bags right behind the trash can. The fingerprint-resistant design keeps your trash can clean and looking perfect. The odor protection system inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria in the trash bin.

Glad Stainless Steel dog proof trash can maintains a 4.8-star rating from 9,646 customer reviews.

Key features:

• Brand: Glad
• Capacity: 20 Gallons
• Material: Stainless Steel Body with ABS Lid
• Finish Type: Brushed
• Cloroxtm Odor Protection
• Rear Bag Compartment
• Bag rings
• Soft, quiet lid closure
• Fingerprint Resistant model

Pros:

• The best thing about this is that dogs can’t get in it
• It is quiet and works smoothly
• It holds quite a bit of garbage
• Most buyers love it because no inner trash can liner is required
• Suitable for large families

Cons:

• Many low reviews stated that the lid on the trash can is made of a very thin and brittle plastic

 

4. SONGMICS (60L) 16 Gal Dual Trash Garbage Can

SONGMICS dog proof trash can has a rigid steel body and can withstand long-lasting use. The soft-close lid makes no noise and ensures the environment remains peaceful.

The dog proof kitchen trash can has metal foot pedals and offers a hands-free operation. With two separate compartments, it’s easy to separate garbage and recycling. The elegant trash can from SONGMICS will surely be an eye-catcher in your kitchen.

SONGMICS dog proof trash can maintains a 4.6-star rating from 5,947 customer reviews.

Key features:

• Brand: SONGMICS
• Capacity: 16 Gallons
• Material: Powder Coated Steel Bin, PP Plastic Inner Bucket, ABS Plastic Lid
• Color: silver
• Finish Type: Brushed
• 2 separate compartments
• Metal foot pedals
• 2 removable inner buckets
• Airtight trash can
• Fingerprint resistant

Pros:

• Buyers have praised the slow and silent closure of the lid
• The trash can is very smooth and easy to clean
• Customers have mentioned that the trash can is durable yet soft
• The dual containers make recycling easy with this model
• Sleek and elegant design

Cons:

• One of the problems buyers highlighted is that it’s difficult to hold regular bags for the trash can

 

5. Simplehuman 4.5 Liter / 1.2 Gallon Round Bathroom Step Trash Can

SimpleHuman dog proof bathroom trash can is a compact-sized item that can fit almost anywhere. The non-skid base has rubber pads. They are gentle on floors and keep the can firm and steady. The silent-close lid is designed to remain quiet and not attract your pup’s attention.

The sturdy dog proof bathroom trash can is fingerprint-proof and easy to clean. The compact trash can fits well in bathrooms or wherever the area is limited.

SimpleHuman dog proof bathroom garbage can has a 4.7-star rating from 37,020 customer reviews.

Key features:

• Brand: SimpleHuman
• Capacity: 1.2 Gallons
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Comes in multiple colors
• Features a string steel pedal
• Silent close lid
• Removable inner bucket
• Non-skid base
• Fingerprint proof
• Custom-fit liners

Pros:

• The best thing about this is that the strong steel pedal is built to last
• Buyers have praised the trash can resists smudges to keep stainless steel shiny
• The removable inner bucket makes for convenient trash disposal
• Sleek and contemporary design
• Perfect for bathrooms

Cons:

• Many low reviews stated that the trash can wobbles when pressing the foot pedal

 

6. iTouchless 16 Gallon Kitchen Dual Step Trash Can & Recycle Bin

The iTouchless dog proof trash can has 2 separate compartments to easily separate trash from recyclables. They have 2 separate pedals for each compartment. Each independent compartment has a removable 8-gallon plastic bucket. This dog proof kitchen trash can is durable and won’t be knocked over easily.

The iTouchless dog proof trash can is easy to clean. It is durable and lasts you a long time. The slim and elegant design makes it an attractive choice for your house. It is perfect for large families.

The iTouchless dog proof trash can maintains a 4.5-star rating from 22,474 customer reviews.

Key features:

• Brand: iTouchless
• Capacity: 16 Gallons
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Finish Type: Brushed
• Two compartments for garbage and recyclables
• Plastic Inner Buckets
• Gentle and silent lid close
• Dual AbsorbX odor filters, one for each compartment
• Fingerprint-proof and smudge-resistant stainless steel
• Perfect fit against a wall

Pros:

• Buyers have praised the pedal mechanism requires minimal force to open
• Sleek, elegant, and space-saving design
• Tuck & Hold functionality keeps heavy trash bag in place
• The odor protection filters work so well
• Much easier to use and clean

Cons:

• Some buyers have complained that the clip in this model which holds the lid in place breaks easily

 

7. Simplehuman 50 Liter/13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can

The large capacity SimpleHuman dog proof trash bin is ideal for large families or busy households. It’s one of the simplest locking dog proof garbage cans. It comes in a semi-round shape that is great for high-traffic areas.

It features lid Shox technology that controls the motion of the lid for a slow and quiet close. There’s a slide lock that securely locks the lid to help keep dogs from getting into the trash.

SimpleHuman dog proof trash can maintains a 4.7-star rating from 15,048 customer reviews.

Key features:

• Brand: Simplehuman
• Capacity: 13 Gallons
• Material: Plastic
• Finish Type: Painted
• Multiple color options
• Silent close lid
• Lid locking option
• Space efficient semi-round shape
• Custom-fit liners

Pros:

• Most buyers love it because it is very durable
• Customers have mentioned that the trash can is very easy to use
• It easily keeps dogs from getting into the trash can

Cons:

• One of the problems highlighted by buyers is that it has a few design flaws and a narrow bottom.

 

8. Rubbermaid Classic 13G Classic Black Step-On Trash Can with Stainless-Steel Pedal

The trash can excludes the need to touch the lid during use to keep hands clean. The hands-free operation helps to reduce the spread of germs in your house. It is built to last through everyday use.

LinerLock(TM) bag arms secure the trash bag to the rim of the can and prevent it from slipping. The strong plastic construction and rounded edges make the trash can easy to clean and long-lasting. The trash bag is perfectly hidden when the lid is shut.

Rubbermaid dog proof trash can maintains a 4.4-star rating from 7668 customer reviews.

Key features:

• Brand: Rubbermaid
• Material: Plastic
• Color: black
• Capacity: 13 Gallons
• Finish Type: Painted
• Stainless steel pedal
• Hands-free lid
• These are locking trash cans with Linerlock(TM) technology
• Made in the USA

Pros:

• Durable design
• Many buyers reviewed that the liner lock is excellent and easy to use.
• Buyers have praised the trash can as nothing was needed to be assembled before use.
• Perfect for kitchen, bathroom, or any room in the home

Cons:

• Some buyers have mentioned that it’s very light, so it can knock over easily if you have a large dog.

 

9. NINESTARS DZT-50-9 Automatic Touchless Infrared Motion Sensor Trash Can

This dog proof indoor trash can by NINE STARS uses the most advanced sensor technology with a touch-free motion sensor. The removable ring liner keeps the trash bag sturdy in place and hidden from sight. This trash can requires 3 C batteries to perform.

The infrared motion sensor is water-resistant and prevents moisture or any spills from damaging the garbage can. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel base keeps the trash can clean. It gives a neat and clean appearance to your house. The dog proof trash can is an excellent choice for all-purpose use.

The NINE STARS dog proof trash can maintains a 4.4-star rating from 9165 customer reviews.

Key features:

• Brand: NINE STARS
• Material: stainless steel
• Capacity: 13.2 Gallons
• Touch-free Motion Sensor
• Finish Type: Brushed
• Soft closing function
• Water-resistant
• Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel base
• Hassle-Free Two-Year Warranty

Pros:

• Sleek and stylish design
• Customers have mentioned that it is easy to set up and makes throwing out the trash cool.
• Durable
• Some customers have mentioned that it is easy to use and clean
• Reviews praise this product for sealing odor in and eliminating cross-contamination of germs
• The company offers great customer service with no additional charges for your defective parts
• Long-lasting battery

Cons:

• Some buyers have complained that the lid is small and flimsy. So, debris collects all around the edges.

 

10.  EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can

EKO Mirage dog proof trash can offers sanitary and touchless trash disposal for your house. It offers the convenience of hands-free operation. There’s a removable inner rim that holds the trash bag in place.

The trash receptacle has a fingerprint-resistant coating over brushed stainless steel. There is an intelligent motion sensor for effortless and hands-free operation. There is a touch switch that will hold the lid open for manual operation.

The EKO Mirage dog proof trash can maintains a 4.4-star rating from 2130 customer reviews.

Key features:

• Brand: EKO
• Capacity: 13.2 Gallons
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Finish Type: Brushed
• Fingerprint resistant
• Touch switch for manual operation
• The inner rim holds the trash bag in place
• Soft and quiet close lid
• No inner liner design
• Motion sensor for hands-free operation
• Requires 6 AA alkaline batteries

Pros:

• Buyers praise this product for having both automatic and manual open and close settings.
• Customers have mentioned that the rim is lightweight, making it easy to replace trash bags.
• The stainless is easy to clean, inside and out.
• Many buyers reviewed that the trash can has a quiet and smooth operation.

Cons:

• The batteries are not included
• Some buyers have mentioned that it is too expensive for the quality and design.

 

11.  Amazon Basics 10 Liter / 2.6 Gallon Soft-Close Trash Can with Foot Pedal

The AmazonBasics rectangular stainless steel trash can comes with a manual foot lever. It is designed to fit in narrow bathroom spaces.

The dog proof trash receptacle features a fingerprint-proof and smudge-resistant stainless steel exterior. The soft-close lid reduces noise from opening or closing. The trash can has a stay-open mode for easily replacing liners.

The AmazonBasics dog proof bathroom trash can maintains a 4.6-star rating from 12,252 customer reviews.

Key features:

• Brand: Amazon Basics
• Capacity: 2.6 Gallons
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Finish Type: Brushed
• Comes with a manual foot lever
• Soft-close lid
• Heavy-duty plastic interior bucket
• Fingerprint proof
• Smudge-resistant stainless steel exterior

Pros:

• Customers have praised the trash can for its space-saving design
• Easy to use
• Sleek and stylish
• Buyers have mentioned that it has a sturdy construction.

Cons:

• Some buyers have complained that the trash can was dented on arrival

 

What to Look for in a dog proof trash can?

There are numerous dog proof trash cans on the market, but they don’t perform the desired function. Let’s have a look at the important aspects that you should have in your dog proof trash can:

Material

Make sure you buy a dog proof trash can that is made of adequately strong material. Stay away from trash cans that are constructed from flimsy material. The hinges and lid should be durable enough to withstand your dog’s chewing. It should be heavier so that it won’t get knocked over easily.

Lid

A dog proof trash can must have a lid that will stay on. With a solid and secure lid, your dog won’t have access to the garbage bin very easily. Many dog proof trash cans come with a locking lid. They are useful if the trash can gets knocked over and the trash won’t fall out onto the floor. Butterfly lid usually will not keep the dog out.

Size

Try to select the size that will work inside or outside your home. The bigger and heavier your dog-proof trash can is, the more stable it’s going to be. Your dog won’t be able to knock over it so easily. If you have a large family, bigger dog proof trash cans can serve better without you having to take the trash out repeatedly.

Bottom

A dog proof trash can with a rubber bottom will be ideal if your dog tries to knock it over. The trash can with a rubber bottom has more grip on the floor and stays in place better.

Sensor

Many dog proof trash cans have motion sensors. They can be more convenient for you to open. You can open the trash can without having to touch it and get your hands dirty.

How do I keep my dog out of the trash can?

If you have a trash loving pooch, here are a few useful tips to keep your dog out of the trash can:

• The simplest way is to deny your dog access to the room having a trash can. However, it does not apply to all households.
• Another good idea is to put your trash can in a pull-out cabinet. This will not only keep the trash can away from your dog but also out of the way too.
• If you have a pantry with enough room, you can place your trash can there and close the door.
• Sometimes dog owner may even place the trash cans outside the house. It will prevent their energetic pooches from knocking over the trash can.
• Keeping your dog distracted and happy is the healthiest option for you and your dog. This will make the trash a less appealing target. You can tire out your dog with exercises and other physical activities.
• Also, leaving your dog with puzzles and interactive toys to play with will help keep him out of the trash can. For toys, you can use a dog toy basket.
• You must ensure that your dog is well fed before you leave him alone in the house.

Quick note: Remember that garbage cans with pedal mechanisms or motion sensor lids are generally tempting for curious dogs. They simply take them as new puzzle toys to figure out.

Why does my dog eat bathroom trash?

Many dogs have the annoying habit of raiding bathroom trash. They do this due to their scavenging instinct and innate curiosity. Dogs that drive to look around everywhere for stuff to eat may end up knocking over the bathroom trash receptacle.

Another reason is that an average dog spends an enormous amount of his time doing nothing and getting bored. He may be involved in destructive activities like eating bathroom trash.

Will vinegar keep animals away from trash?

Many animals find food sources by their sense of smell. Some pet owners recommend lightly spraying vinegar on your trash cans to deter scavengers and food-seeking animals with sensitive noses. Spraying vinegar on the trash cans can mask the food odors that attract the animals.

Your final takeaways about pet-proof trash cans

We understand that trash bins are an attractive source of treats for most dogs. So, you need to do your best to keep your dog safe and out of the trash! Keep your dog well hydrated with a dog water fountain so they don’t crave water.

Keeping your dog out of the trash can is a must. Trash cans might contain harmful foods and other things that are harmful to dogs. If your dog loves to invade the trash can and make a mess in your home, a dog proof trash can is a great option for you.

Always pay close attention to the weight and size of the dog proof trash can before buying it. Use our picks as a guide and find a solution for your trash-eating pooches.