8 Best Dog Proof Trash Cans – Save Yourself the Hassle of a Cleanup!

Keep your dog safe, and your trash can clean with these top-rated, best dog-proof trash cans. We've got the perfect one for your home.
By
Daniel
Daniel
Writer
Daniel is among our most talented writers: based on the dull expert reports he's able to make up a comprehensive, reader-friendly article which anyone can benefit from. Also read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Tom
Tom
Tom
Expert Consultant
Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known read more
Last updated: August 19, 2023
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Are you tired of coming home to find your kitchen littered with the content of your garbage bin and a guilty-looking dog beside it? Well, all you need is the best dog proof trash can out there. It is in dogs’ nature to be curious and they will do it over and over again when they get bored. It is not only frustrating to clean up the mess but also dangerous for your dog’s health. Finding the best dog proof trash can is not as easy as you’re imagining. Not all of them are as good as described and you have to pay extra attention to make sure you choose right.

We rounded up 8 of the best top-rated dog-proof trash cans to help you make the right choice with the iTouchless 16 Gallon Dual Step Trash Can heading on this list. Some of the essential features we considered in our review include capacity, dimensions, construction materials, weight, and locking mechanism, among others. They determine the quality, efficiency, and reliability of a trash can because it should last for longer.

Quick Summary

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5556 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.7
9.8
Features
  • Materials: 410 stainless steel, plastic inner buckets
  • Capacity: 2 x 8 gal.
  • Dimensions: 5.25” D x 18.75” W x 26.25” T
  • Weight: 19 lbs.

Other features: color-coded, airtight lid, ergonomically-designed pedal

This trash deservedly emerged our best overall pick owing to its supreme quality and functionality. It is the smoothest and most suave step trash can you’d ever own. It is perfect for both home and office use and your dog would die trying to figure out how to open it.

The trash can is made with an elegant brushed stainless steel that is fingerprint-proof and smudge resistant. It is also durable enough to withstand the ruthless scratches and bites from your dog.

What’s more, it has an ergonomically designed pedal which requires the least amount of force to operate. The step pedal operates the lid to close smoothly and gently. The automatic opening is fantastic as you don’t have to touch the lid, which keeps the trash can clean for long.

Essentially, the trash can has 2 durable plastic inner buckets that you can easily slide in and out of the can. Their color codes make the trash can highly convenient as they offer a quick and easy way of separating recycling and trash. Both of them have handles that make trash removal easy and mess-free and they can hold up to 8 gallons of trash each.

In addition, the trash can features an easy to replace air damper which guarantees you years of like-new performance.

In sum, this is one of the best dog-proof kitchen trash cans you get for your home or office as it offers the best convenience when it comes to garbage disposal.

    What are our favorite features?
  • Durable stainless steel construction
  • Hard to knock over
  • Large capacity dual compartments
  • Lid closes silently
  • Ergonomic foot pedals
  • Color-coded compartments for increased convenience
    What could be better?
  • Complaints about the dimensions being different from what is advertised
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8216 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.6
Features
  • Materials: stainless steel, nano-silver coating
  • Capacity: 58 liters
  • Dimensions: 22;W x 14.2;D x 25.8;H (lid closed)
  • Weight: 21.3 lbs.

Other features: 10-year warranty, eco-friendly, silent-close lid, liner pocket

This is what you have got to get if you are looking for a premium quality dog-proof trash can. The Simplehuman dual compartment trash can is the strong and silent type that makes it easy to sort your recyclables and trash with outstanding convenience and space efficiency.

The trash can boasts of a solid stainless steel build that can last for long in tough environments. The stainless steel is finger-print proof, thus stays spotless and shiny throughout and it can hold up well to a few scratches and bites from your dog.

Additionally, the nano-silver coating makes it shine better giving your space an aesthetic appeal. Weighing in at 21 pounds, it will be very hard for your dog to be able to knock the trash can down.

The trash can features a sturdy wide stainless steel pedal engineered to last a good 150,000 steps which is about 20 steps per day for 20 years. The trash can’s specially designed dampers open the lid smoothly then ease it down gently for the softest and quietest close.

Moreover, the trash can features a stainless steel liner rim that flips up to make your trash bag change easy and quick then closes over the bag to hold it tightly. Plus, it stores and dispenses the code H refill liners on its liner pocket so that you always know where they are.

The liner rim grips the liner and keeps it hidden leaving the can looking neat and tidy.

The trash can hold up to 58 liters of trash which is more than enough for both home and office use. It also allows you to conveniently separate your trash from recyclables with its 2 compartments.

One side of the compartment has a convenient handled bucket that you can easily lift to dispose all of your recyclables.

In conclusion, this is one of the best dog-proof indoor kitchen trash cans out there. It is beautifully designed and packs a punch with its superior features.

    What makes it special?
  • Beautiful design
  • Hard to knockdown
  • Stores liners for easy and fast-changing
  • Sturdy stainless steel build
  • 2 compartments for easy separation of recyclables and trash
  • Large capacity
  • 10-year warranty
    What cons did we find?
  • Premium price
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5920 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.5
Features
  • Materials: high-density polyethylene with UV inhibitors
  • Capacity: 30 gal.
  • Dimensions: 18&W x 18 1/2&D x 28 3/48&H
  • Weight: 10 lbs.

Other features: five fluted panel sides, telescoping base, weather-resistant

Are you looking for the best outdoor dog-proof trash can? Well, the Safco Pentagon trash can is a sure bet. It is engineered to last with a tough weatherproof build. You can use it in high-traffic outdoor locations like cafés and hotels or in your home at meeting places and patios.

The trash can is built to last with high-quality HD polyethylene material that has UV inhibitors. It features 5 fluted panel sides, a telescoping base and a molded plastic open top which give it an attractive look. It will not only keep your space clean and litter-free but also beautify it.

The telescoping base does a good job at hiding the liner bag and it includes a recessed bottom for easy maintenance.

The trash can’s open top allows you to discard waste without touching the lid. This helps reduce the spread of germs as no one has to touch a lid. It is because of this that the trash can is highly preferred for outdoor use.

So what about your dog, or the neighbour’s dogs? You can fasten the bottom of the trash can to the pavement or give it some more weight with sand or bricks. Even the wind wouldn’t be able to knock it down.

Moreover, it has a high capacity and can hold up to 30 gallons of trash.

Overall, this is one of the best dog-proof trash cans you can get for outdoor use. It is highly versatile as you can as well use it indoors and it wouldn’t hurt your pocket to get one.

    Why is it special?
  • Attractive design
  • Weather-proof
  • Open top reduces the spread of germs
  • High capacity-30 gallons
  • Easy maintenance
  • Durable build
    What are the flaws?
  • Can be hard to empty when full
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8525 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.3
4
Best Automatic Trash Can

Secura 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can

Features
  • Materials: stainless steel
  • Capacity: 13 gal.
  • Dimensions: 27” x 14” x 12”
  • Weight: 10 lbs.

Other features: two adjustable sensor directions, LED countdown timer, powered by two sources

This is the ultimate trash can you can get to elevate your garbage disposal experience. It has superb features that allow you to adjust it to your own convenience so that you can achieve easy and hygienic waste disposal in your home or business area.

The trash can boasts of a modern stainless steel design that is easy to clean. It also elevates your space aesthetically.

You can choose to operate the trash can either manually or automatically and it is designed to be powered by 2 sources. It features a power jack, a battery holder, and a switch. You can choose to use either the power adapter or batteries.

The most praiseworthy feature of this trash can is its sensor that offers hands-free operation. All you have to do is place your hand or garbage within the sensor’s range and its lid will pop open immediately gently and quietly allowing you to discard trash hygienically and conveniently.

What’s more, you can adjust the sensor’s direction by rotating the sensor ball to change the zone to upward-facing or front-facing. It also features 6 LED lights that go off counterclockwise to inform you of when the lid will close.

It would take your dog forever to figure out how to open the trash can even if he/she manages to knock it down.

Essentially, the trash can features an easy-to-replace carbon activated filter compartment that helps manage the bad odour of garbage for as long as 3 months.

All considered nothing screams elegance and convenience as much as this touchless trash can does. If you think you’d have to spend a fortune to get one, then you have never been wrong. It is even more affordable than most high-end dog-proof trash cans.

    What makes it special?
  • Allows you to set up as per your convenience
  • LED lights to let you know when the lid is closing
  • Can be operated manually or automatically
  • Smooth and quiet operation
  • Smart retainer ring that holds trash bag in place and hides it well
  • Extra-wide opening for easy disposal of big and bulky items
  • Odor filter
  • Affordable
    What cons did we find?
  • Its bag liner is fragile
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3540 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.7
9.0
5
Best Trash Can With Odor Management

iTouchless SoftStep 13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can

Features
  • Materials: stainless steel
  • Capacity: 13.2 gal.
  • Dimensions: 13” x 16.8” x 26”
  • Weight: 13 lbs.

Other features: smudge-resistant, AbsorbX odor filter, non-slip pedal

The odor from garbage is inevitable and smelly trash can isn’t the most pleasant thing in the kitchen, office or business area. With this iTouchless trash can, bad smell is not an issue as it comes with an excellent odor control system.

The trash can is built to last with stainless steel from lid to foot pedal. With its sleek exterior, the trash can will feel right at home in your modern kitchen. The stainless steel is super durable and highly resistant to scratches from your dog’s paws it is also fingerprint-proof thus maintains its shine for a long time.

The best thing about this trash can is its removable inner bucket. It has a built-in hole that helps hold the garbage bag securely. The removable bucket makes cleaning and maintenance super-easy as you can simply remove it and wash it in your backyard. Plus, it prevents water and other small chunks from falling on the stainless steel bottom.

The sturdy foot pedal requires minimum force to open up the lid smoothly and quietly and you can gently pull the lid back to keep it open.

What’s more, the trash can includes a room for odor filter on the inside of the lid where carbon filter goes to absorb the rotting smell of food and other items leaving your kitchen neat, fresh and hygienic.

In addition, unlike most stainless steel trash cans, the iTouchless SoftStep 13.2 has thick rubber pads at its bottom that prevent it from slipping regardless of the number of times you step on the pedal.

All in all, if you are sensitive to odors, this is one of the best dog-proof trash cans you can get for your garbage disposal in the house, café, restaurant or office.

    Why is it special?
  • Durable stainless steel build
  • Fingerprint proof and scratch-resistant stainless steel
  • Does not require expensive custom bags
  • Thick rubber pads that prevent slipping
  • Removable bucket reduces cleaning efforts
  • Carbon filter for odor control
    What are the flaws?
  • A bit costly
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4978 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
8.9
Features
  • Materials: stainless steel
  • Capacity: 13 gal.
  • Dimensions: 14.5” x 10.5” x 27”
  • Weight: 8 lbs.

Other features: two power options, germ-resistant surface, manual open/close buttons, natural activated carbon odor filter

Touching a trash can or bin can be a huge deal for some people. If you are among them, this should be your prime pick. iTouchless have combined their best efforts to create a touchless trash can with an odor management system to allow you easy and hygienic garbage disposal.

The trash can comes in a rectangular shape that fits in tight spaces and uses little floor space. It is made with stainless steel for enhanced durability and easy maintenance. It will be able to withstand your dog’s scratches and bites when it is curious to know its contents.

A huge plus for this trash can is its reflex technology which allows you to lift the lid automatically with the simple motion of your hands. It also comes with visual indicators that show the status of the lid.

A green light indicates the lid will stay open while a red light indicates it is about to shut this prevents it from closing on your hand.

Kitchen waste tends to stink a lot and that’s why most people cannot afford to skip taking the trash out. With the iTouchless 13 Gallon smelling garbage is a thing of the past. It offer ample space and a wide opening for easy disposal and a carbon filter that traps odor and harmful VOC compounds.

You can use either batteries or an AC adapter to power the trash can depending on where and how you want to position it conveniently in your kitchen.

In a nutshell, this is one of the best dog-proof automatic trash cans with an odor management system especially for people who are germs and odor sensitive.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Space efficient
  • Reflex technology-automatic lid opening and closing
  • Wide opening for easy disposal of large items
  • Fingerprint-proof stainless steel
  • Traps odor and harmful VOC compounds
  • Uses both batteries and AC adapter
  • Durable build
    What is not ideal about it?
  • AC adapter must be bought separately
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9456 people in the past 30 days
8.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.4
8.8
Features
  • Materials: stainless steel
  • Capacity: 18 gal.
  • Dimensions: 13” x 21.3” x 26.2”
  • Weight: 11.5 lbs.

Other features: 2-year warranty, touch-free motion sensor lid closer

This is one of the best dog-proof trash cans that has been built with dogs and other pets in mind. It is easy to use and maintain and it offers solid durability with top-notch functionality.

The automatic trash can has a robust stainless steel build that can withstand your dog’s sharp paws and teeth. It comes in a rectangular shape that wouldn’t occupy much space in your kitchen. Further, the stainless steel is fingerprint-proof thus guaranteeing you a shiny new-like look for a long time.

The trash can is completely touchless. With its touch-free motion-sensing technology you wouldn’t need to touch any part of the can. The infra-red motion sensor is made with water-resistant material to prevent moisture or any accidental spills from damaging the entire unit.

What sets this trash can apart from the competition is its incorporation of an advanced delay sensing technology that prevents any unnecessary opening from kids, pets or anyone walking by.

The delay sensing technology also preserves battery life.

The trash can’s lid closes quietly and gently to lengthen its life. Thanks to its touch-free operation the cross-contamination of germs in your home is eliminated. It also seal the garbage odor in, leaving your kitchen clean and fresh.

Also included is a removable ring liner that holds the garbage bag in place and prevents it from overhanging for a clean and neat appearance.

You can use any standard trash bags or the NINESTARS custom trash bags NSTB-10-30.

Overall, this is one of the few best automatic trash cans designed with pets in mind. Good thing is you don’t have to dig deep into your pockets to get it and it comes with a 2-year warranty.

    What are our favorite features?
  • Touch-free motion sensor
  • Sturdy stainless steel build
  • Water-proof motion sensor
  • Delay sensing technology saves battery and prevents unnecessary opening
  • Removable ring liner that holds garbage bag
  • Seals garbage odor
  • Prevents cross-contamination of germs
    What could be better?
  • Complaints about its motion sensor not being durable
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4001 people in the past 30 days
8.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
8.7
Features
  • Materials: plastic
  • Capacity: 10.6 gal.
  • Dimensions: 10.2&W x 19.2&D x 25.2&H
  • Weight: 6 lbs.

Other features: slide-lock lid, 5-year warranty

Bang for your bucks? Look no more. The Simplehuman 10.6 Gallon is a sturdy little workhorse that surprisingly provides maximum capacity in its compact slim size. It has incredible features that set it apart as one of the best valuable dog-proof trash cans with an attractive price tag.

The trash can features a slim space-efficient design ideal for tight spaces. It has a robust plastic build that can endure harsh environments at your home, workplace or business area.

The trash can’s pedal is made with durable stainless steel and it is engineered to last 150000 steps which is approximately 20 steps per day for a whole 20 years.

It is also among the very few trash cans designed with pets and children in mind. Its design allows you to lock the lid shut by sliding it to help keep curious kids and pets from getting into the trash.

Moreover, the lid closes without any banging or loud noises thanks to the patented lid Shox technology utilized in the trash can’s design. It controls the motion of the lid for a slow, silent quiet close.

With the code K custom fit liners, your trash experience will never be the same. The bags are ultra-durable and they fit perfectly for a neat and tidy trash disposal experience.

In conclusion, this is one gem of a product with all the high-end features and space-saving efficiency at a very affordable price. Plus, you get a 5-year warranty.

    What makes it special?
  • Offers excellent value for money
  • Durable build
  • Sturdy pedal
  • Silent operation
  • Excellent custom fit liners
  • 5-year warranty
    What cons did we find?
  • Complaints about the cover not attaching easily

Things to Consider

While it may seem there isn’t much about buying the best dog proof trash cans, it can be tedious to make the choice especially with the tons of options available. This section contains all the information you need before buying a dog proof trash can including why you need one, what makes it dog proof and he features to consider before choosing one.

Why buy a dog proof trash can

8 Best Dog Proof Trash Cans - Save Yourself the Hassle of a Cleanup!

Among other reasons, your dog faces health risks if you choose to use a regular trash can for garbage disposal. Here are some of the reasons why you should buy a dog-proof trash can:

Hygiene

You can imagine all the gross things that get thrown into a trash can. If your dog rummages through them and smears all the content all over him and the floor of your kitchen it can be very unsanitary.

Sharp and harmful objects

Your trash may consist of sharp objects like broken glasses which can cut your dog’s body parts or puncture his mouth. Your dog could also encounter harmful chemicals like detergents or inedible things that could get stuck in their throats.

What makes a trash can dog proof?

Here are some of the things that make trash can dog proof:

Heavy

The heavier the trash can the harder it is for your dog to knock it down.

Strong lid

Any lid that cannot be toppled, lifted or tipped open is perfect for trying to prevent your dog from diving in the trash can.

Durable

The trash can should be made with sturdy materials that can hold up to your dog’s scratches and bites.

Odor control

A trash can with odor control will hardly attract your pet to it.

Features to consider when choosing a dog proof trash can

There are features that you must consider before paying for a dog proof trash can for you to make the best buy:

Construction materials

This is crucial as it not only determines the durability of the trash can but also its ability to survive your dog’s scratches and bites when he gets curious. It also determined the ease of cleaning and maintenance. Go for a trash can made with stainless steel or weatherproof material for outdoors use.

Capacity

This determines how often you will be taking out the trash. If you have a busy household, office or business area then go for large capacity trash can like the Safco Products Canmeleon Pentagon Trash Can reviewed above for extra convenience.

Dimensions

8 Best Dog Proof Trash Cans - Save Yourself the Hassle of a Cleanup!

The dimensions determine the amount of space the trash can will occupy. If you have a squeezed kitchen or space, you should opt for compact models that are space-efficient like the iTouchless 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Automatic Trash Can.

Locking mechanism

Go for a trash can that has a locking mechanism that keeps the lid shut even when tipped over.

Most trash cans are designed to be dog-proof but when tipped over the lid comes off and this renders them useless. Trash cans with motion sensors and foot pedals can give your dog a hard time when they try to get into the trash.

Odor containment

A trash can with odor containment will not only leave your space looking neat but also fresh. Go for a trash can with a carbon filter to filter the bad garbage odor. It will also prevent your dog from getting curious to go through the garbage.

Rubber Bottom

These help the trash can grip the floor better thus preventing skidding.

Warranty

Go for a trash can that is backed by warranty. It not only guarantees you of its high quality but can also come in handy if you encounter any defects during your use.

Motion Sensors

These come in handy by preventing the spread of germs as you wouldn’t have to open the lid manually.

How to keep your dog out of the trash

Here are some tips you can use to keep your dog away from the trash:

Keep the trash can out of reach

The best fool-proof way of keeping your dog away from the trash can is simply keeping it out of its reach. You can keep it at an unreachable place such as closed cabinets with child lock, under the sink or in a pantry. You can also restrict entry into the room with the trash.

Keep him from thinking about it

Your dog rummages through trash because either you’re not feeding him well and he’s attracted by the garbage odor, or when he’s bored and wants to play. Ensure you give adequate food rations and you can buy them toys to play with when you are not around.

FAQ

What is the best dog proof trash can?

The best dog proof trash can has all the features that make it completely dog-proof including heaviness, sturdy build, efficient lock mechanism and an odor management.

Will vinegar keep animals away from trash?

Yes. Some animals like cats and dogs can’t stand the smell of vinegar even after it has dried. You can mix vinegar with water and spray then spray the lid and the outside of the trash can to keep your pets from getting into the trash.

Our verdict

When your dog digs through your trash, the mess is the least of your worries. The best solution is to invest in the best dog trash can out there. You will not only save yourself the hassle of a cleanup every other time but also look out for your dog’s health and safety. With the tips above, finding the best trash can shouldn’t be a challenge at all and you can also choose to go with any of the top-rated products we reviewed o dissuade your dog from trash digging.

Of all the products we reviewed the iTouchless 16 Gallon Dual Step Trash Can scooped the best overall position. Its solid durability, large capacity, and multiple first-rate convenient features could not be matched. The Simplehuman 58 Liter Hands-Free Dual Compartment Trash Can and the Safco Products Canmeleon Pentagon Trash Can followed in the ranking. They both offer premium quality both in their build and functionality. The Safco trash can is the best you can get for high-traffic outdoor locations because of its superior durability and extra-large capacity.

9,8
Total Score
iTouchless 16 Gallon Dual Step Trash Can - Editor’s Choice
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