Dog Proof Trash Cans
If you have a dog in your home or apartment, you should consider getting a dog proof trash can. Let’s face it, dogs love food, and not just the foods we eat at the dinner table, on the couch, or in bed either. Dogs will go through whatever it takes to get to the food they smell. So when you bring a dog home and he or she grows up, there may be a day you come home to trash all over the floor. That is when you will know it is time to find a dog proof trash can.
Dog-Proofing for Large Dogs
If you have a dog large enough to steal things from the trash can, you should avoid bins that are plastic, lightweight, have no lid or have loose lids, and are out in the open. These are all easy targets for your dog to just tip over and rummage through for the tastiest, dirtiest morsel they can find. This is not good, especially if you have toxic chemicals or foods in the garbage, such as chocolate, coffee grinds, and cleaning supplies.
Barricade Your Trash Cans
There are many ways that you can keep your garbage away from your dog. You can keep the bin in a closet or pantry with a full size door, keep it in the garage, or put it inside a cabinet in the kitchen. If you use the cabinet though, make sure to put child safety locks on the doors, in case your dog is determined and smart enough to find a way to get inside. Do not underestimate your dogs, because they will do whatever it takes to get to food!
Upgrade the Trash Can's Material
If you want to get rid of the plastic bins, you’re probably going to have to spend somewhere around $100 for a bin. A heavy, sturdy, wide-bodied, stainless steel bin will be almost impossible for your dog to tip over. These dog proof cans may be expensive, but it will be worth it when you come home and see that the coffee grinds you threw out are not strewn over your carpet and your dog is not sick.
Choosing a Trash Can with a Secured Lid
If you happen to have a large breed dog, like a Mastiff, Newfoundland, or Great Dane, no matter how sturdy the garbage bin is, your dog will be able to reach right in and munch away. For these instances, a secured lid would work best. Make sure that it locks in place or is heavy enough so that your dog cannot lift it. Some trash cans come with wooden or basket-like enclosures. If you decide to use this type of trash can, also make sure that the lid can be secured tightly.
Avoid Swinging Lids
One last thing you should avoid is a garbage can with a swinging lid. It’s very easy for your dog to get his or her head stuck in the container when trying to pull it back out. This can be a dangerous situation for your dog, as it poses a choking hazard. Alternatively, your dog may break the lid off completely, and you will be stuck shopping for a new dog proof trash can all over again!
