10 Best Dog-Proof Trash Cans – 2024 Reviews & Top Picks

Dogs are attracted to all sorts of smells that come from a trash can. Before you know it, you may walk into a trash-filled kitchen because your pup decided to investigate the yummy smell coming from the receptacle. If you know this tale all too well, you may be on the search for a dog-proof trash can that will prevent your dog from making such messes.

It’s important to keep dogs out of trash cans because the act could expose them to something dangerous or even toxic. In this guide, we’ll list the best dog-proof trash cans we found that will keep your dog safe and prevent messes. We’ll rank them based on consumer reviews so you know the ins and outs of each product to help you make the best decision to fit your specific needs.

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024

The 10 Best Dog-Proof Trash Cans

1. iTouchless 13-Gallon Sensor Trash Can – Best Overall

The iTouchless 13-gallon sensor trash can is smudge-resistant and will look terrific in your home, all while keeping your dog out of the trash. This trash can operates off a sensor to give you a touchless trash can that is also more sanitary. The lid will automatically open when you get near the opening, and it comes with reflex technology, which will keep the lid from closing on your hand. It also comes with an Absorb X filter with activated carbon to keep odors away, and the opening is 12 inches wide for extra convenience.

The space-saving design of this trash can comes with an AC adaptor, and the ABS plastic lid is easy to clean. You can also manually close the lid using the control buttons, and it only draws power when needed, which helps preserve the four D batteries. If you don’t want to use batteries, you can simply plug it in using the included adaptor. The lock-close feature is excellent for keeping dogs out, making it ideal for a pet-proof trash can.

The lid may malfunction at times, but it comes with a full-service manufacturer’s warranty and dedicated customer support. With all the quality features, this trash can tops our list for the best overall dog-proof trash can.

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2. Simplehuman 13 Gallon Trash Can – Best Value

The Simplehuman 13-gallon trash can is a more affordable option with a lockable lid to keep your dog out of the trash. The trash can uses a steel pedal mechanism to open the lid, complete with a lock you simply push to keep the lid closed and secure. The lid also closes silently for an added benefit. It has a black matte finish and is semi-rounded to save space. It holds 13 gallons, and it’s dent-resistant. You can buy custom-fit liners for this trash can, but you also have the option of buying tall kitchen liners if you choose.

A downside is the trash may leak from the bottom, so you’ll need to purchase sturdy trash bags to keep potential messes from happening, especially with liquids. However, with the lock feature and overall look, this trash can is the best dog-proof trash can for the money.

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3. LOUVIXA Tilt Out Trash Can Cabinet – Premium Choice

For those looking for more of an aesthetically-looking trash cabinet rather than just a trash can on its own, the LOUVIXA Tilt Out Trash Can Cabinet may be an excellent choice. This cabinet ensures your dog will not be able to access the trash cans hidden inside, and the cabinet adds a nice touch of décor to your home. This cabinet will eliminate odors, and it’s made from engineered wood and metal designed to last. It holds two 10-gallon trash cans, and the two trash can compartments tilt out to open.

This cabinet is sturdy and provides you with extra storage; it’s also easy to wipe clean with a dishcloth. The dimensions are 39.3 x 13.1 x 36 inches, and you can place the cabinet anywhere in your home you see fit, but it looks especially pleasing in the kitchen. You will still need to purchase the 10-gallon trash cans, and the cabinet is pricey.

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4. Sterilite 12.6 Gallon Innovative Hands-Free Trash Can

The Sterilite 12.6 Gallon Innovative Hands-Free trash can features an innovative locking lid that is easily removed for cleaning and changing trash bags. It has a step-on pedal opening mechanism for hands-free usage, and it comes in options of 2, 4, 6, or 8-pack, so you’re sure to have a trash can in any room of your home that you need. You can also choose between black or white for colors.

Dogs cannot open the innovative lid, and the lid will stay shut if accidentally knocked over. It comes with an odor seal to keep smells away, and the base contains a decorative titanium accented base. The dimensions are 17.25 x 13.25 x 25.5 inches, which makes these cans easy to place around in your home. They are affordable and get the job done of keeping your doggie out.

Despite having locks on the lid, these trash cans may not work for larger dogs with powerful jaws, as they still may be able to access the inside.

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5. Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can

The Glad Stainless Steel Step offers a fingerprint-resistant, quiet-close, and odor-seal trash can that prevents your dog from accessing the inside. It features bag rings that hold the bag in place and prevent the trash bag from falling in, which can be frustrating. A nice, added feature is the rear-bag compartment that allows you to store trash bags for added convenience. The lid will not come off if knocked over, and it comes in pewter or stainless steel. You can also opt for a motion sensor lid as an upgrade and either a 13-gallon or 20-gallon can.

This trash can is a little pricey, but reviews state it serves as an excellent dog-proof trash can.

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

The NINESTARS DZT-50-9 Automatic Touchless Infrared Motion Sensor trash can is another elegant-looking receptacle that offers hands-free usage by way of an infrared motion sensor. It has a non-skid base and is fingerprint-resistant. The lid closes quietly and securely, preventing canines from accessing the trash, and the infrared motion sensor is waterproof, preventing accidental spills from damaging the unit. It also features delay-sensing technology that preserves battery life and prevents access for dogs and children.

It comes with a 1-year warranty, but you will need to purchase three C-sized batteries, which are not included. A downside is the sensor may not last as long as it should, especially considering the price.

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7. PHOJEWI Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid

Sometimes, dogs may get into smaller trash cans in the bathroom or home office. If you have this problem with your dog, the PHOJEWI Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid may be a solution. This dog-proof trash can contains a removable lid with a handle for easy cleaning and features odor control. Small, slim, and compact, this trash can is perfect for smaller spaces, bathrooms, a home office, or even a child’s bedroom. Simply press the top of the lid to open and push to close securely. It also has a practical inner ring that hides the outer portion of the trash bag. The dimensions are 8.66 x 5.98 x 12.70 inches.

A drawback is the lid may come off if accidentally knocked over, allowing your dog to get into the trash.

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8. XPIY Trash Can with Lid

If you’re still looking for a small dog-proof trash can, take a look at the XPITY trash can with lid. These trash cans come in a two-pack of 4-gallon cans that can be used indoors or outdoors, as they are rust-proof and leak-proof. The lid has a press-top opening mechanism and closes securely to keep it sanitary and dog-proof. The small size allows for versatility to be used practically anywhere, whether in the kitchen, home office, bedroom, and more.

The high-quality plastic material can withstand 65 pounds of weight and is durable, strong, and long-lasting. They come in green, white, black, or grey. A downside is smart canines may figure out how to open this trash can.

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9. Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can

The Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can allows you to save space with its slim design and dimensions of 18.31 x 9.75  x 25.56 inches. The lid closes slowly and shuts securely and quietly, keeping your doggie’s nose out of the trash. It has rubber feet to prevent moving and scratching your floors, and the attached rubber bands on the sides allow for keeping trash bags securely attached to avoid spills and messes. It has a strong and sturdy metal pedal for opening the lid, and it comes with a 1-year warranty.

This trash can is not smudge-proof, though, and it’s a bit pricey.

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10. SONGMICS 12-Gallon Pedal Garbage Can

The SONGMICS 12-gallon pedal garbage can contains a removable bucket for emptying and cleaning, and it has holes on either side for securing the trash bag inside. It’s smudge-resistant and closes quietly, but you can also open it by hand and close the lid manually for longer cleaning tasks. The sleek and stylish design looks great in the home, and the lid closes securely to keep your dog out of the trash.

This trash can may scratch and dent easily, and it’s expensive.

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Dog-Proof Trash Can

When looking for a dog-proof trash can, you have a few things to consider to make the best choice for your needs, as there are features to look for to ensure your dog cannot access the trash. Let’s go over specifics on what to look for before you buy.

Lock Mechanism

One of the best features to look for is a lid-locking mechanism. This feature ensures your dog cannot maneuver the lid in any way to gain access. Lid locks are typically operated by pressing a button to lock the lid; however, to ensure your dog cannot get inside, you must remember to push the lock button each time you use it.

Sensor-Operated

Nowadays, technology has allowed us to get sophisticated with household items, including trash cans. Sensor-operated trash cans are convenient in that they open automatically when your hand gets near and then securely shut close to keep dogs out. Of course, these will be much more expensive than a typical trash can, but if this type fits your budget, they are useful to have and use. You can still opt for a step-on pedal that opens the lid. However, the lid should be heavy enough to make it nearly impossible for your dog to access. You can also look for a trash can with a seal-shut seal.

Odor-Control

Another nice and relevant feature is odor control. Odor control trash cans help seal odors that will attract your dog in the first place. Typically, the odor is controlled with a seal-shut seal to trap odors inside, which is a necessary feature as well to keep your dog from easily opening the lid to investigate.

Size and Weight

Size and weight are important features because the trash can should be strong and sturdy enough to keep your dog from knocking it over, at which point your dog may be able to gain access to the trash. The size should be relevant and work for the space you need to place it, such as the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, etc. Generally, 12- to 13-gallon trash cans are suitable for kitchens.

Conclusion

Finding a dog-proof trash can is essential in keeping your dog safe from potentially harmful items inside, and we hope our list of reviews helps you make the best decision to keep our doggies safe. For the best overall, the iTouchless 13-Gallon Sensor Trash Can allows for hands-free usage with odor control and a strong, durable lid. The Simplehuman 13 Gallon Trash Can is more affordable with a locking lid and is dent-resistant. If you’re looking for furniture that hides your cans, the LOUVIXA Tilt Out Trash Can Cabinet is an excellent option and looks nice in the home.

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Featured Photo Credit: Matveev Aleksandr, Shutterstock