Tips for Keeping Your Dog Out of the Trash

Frustrated by the dog always getting into the trash? Here are four easy tips to keep your dog from getting into the trash.

1. Move Your Trash Cans Out of Reach

Your dog can't get into the trash if he can't reach the trash. In the bathroom, tuck a small waste basket in the sink cabinet. If your dog knows how to open the cabinet door, install a baby safety lock on the cabinet to keep him out. If there is no cabinet, get a waste basket small enough to put on top of the toilet tank. To keep your dog out of the trash in the kitchen, you can also stash the basket in a cabinet or even on top of a small table to keep it out of reach. You can also keep your dog out of the trash by putting the trash can in a closet or pantry - just remember to keep the door closed.

2. Confine Your Dog to Areas Without Trash Cans

Another way to keep your dog out of the trash is to confine him to large areas of the house without trash cans. You can use baby gates so he can still see what's going on when you are in the kitchen. Do not confine your dog to a space that is much too small for him or one that keeps him constantly separated from the family.

3. Replace Your Trash Baskets

You can also replace the kind of trash baskets you use so your dog is unable to get into the trash even if he can reach the basket. Many department stores carry miniature step operated metal trash baskets for the bathroom and home supply stores carry larger versions for your kitchen. Home supply stores may also have tamper-proof trash cans (intended for outdoor use, but there's no reason you can't bring it indoors too). You can also purchase baby-proofing latches which will secure a covered waste basket.

4. Make the Trash Less Appealing

Try to discourage your dog from getting into the trash by putting a deterrent on the can which makes it taste unpleasant to your dog. There are commercial products at pet supply stores (generally marketed as an "anti-chewing" product) or you can make a home remedy out of a little cayenne pepper mixed with water. Spray it around the top of the trash basket, or paint it on with a brush if a spray bottle isn't handy.

Keeping your dog out of the trash will be more pleasant for you, and safer for your dog. Spoiled food and sharp objects such as broken glass pose a safety risk to your dog - so do both him and yourself a favor and keep your dog out of the trash.