What to do if your dog keeps getting in the trash?

Start by ensuring that your dog is always fed on time and served an adequate portion of food based on his age, health, and your vet’s recommendations. If your pet seems to be hungry throughout the day, consider increasing the amount you feed him or give your dog several small meals throughout the day instead of two or three larger meals. High-fiber foods will also help keep your pet feeling fuller longer. If you suspect that your dog is digging through the trash due to boredom, change up your routine to keep your pet more engaged. Go for more walks throughout the day, play fetch in the yard, or try indoor games, such as dog puzzle games. Chew toys can also help keep your pet independently occupied. Next, reevaluate your trash can situation. Start by purchasing a trash can that has a tight lid or a lid that can be locked in place. If possible, keep the trash can in a closed cupboard or a secure space, such as a pantry. Install a childproof latch on the pantry door or cabinet to prevent your pet from nudging it open. Alternatively, you could use baby gates to restrict your dog’s access to the trash. Whenever you see your pet attempting to get into the trash can, use a simple command that tells your pet to immediately stop, such as “Off!” To get your dog’s attention, say the command word while also making a loud noise, such as clapping your hands. Avoid scolding your dog when he gets in the trash as he may not understand what he is doing wrong. Some dogs may continue to get in the trash when you’re not home or paying attention. When this happens, you may want to consider a commercial repellent to keep your dog away. There are many commercial dog repellants on the market that can be sprayed directly on the trash can. Sprinkling baking soda in the trash can have a similar effect.

Keep a Well-Fed Dog On many occasions, your dog is lured into your trash can due to the food smells coming from it. But as long as your pet is well-fed, they'll be less likely to go through your garbage. So, make sure your dog doesn’t go hungry by following a regular feeding schedule. The canine stomach is structured to crave food eight to ten hours after their last meal, so it’s a good idea to feed them between these times. Keep Your Pup Entertained While You’re Away Sometimes, the reason your dog digs through your trash isn’t linked to their hunger. They could be bored and looking for something to entertain themselves with. So they might dig through the trash and chew on random items. Unless you want trash spread all over your house, make sure to give your pup something to keep them occupied while you’re away. Use Child-Safe Locks to Keep the Trash Can Closed You can deter your dog from accessing the contents of your trash can by making it impossible for them to do so. It can be as simple as attaching a child safety lock on each side of the bin. Get a Trash Can Your Pup Can’t Get Into Another practical way to stop your dog from digging in the trash is to get a garbage bin they can’t open. Place the Trash Can Where Your Dog Won’t Access It If you have a crafty pet who eventually learns how to open even the most smartly-designed trash can, it’s a good idea to put the bin where your dog won’t be able to reach it.