I Tested the Best Dog Proof Trash Cans: My Top Picks for Keeping Pups Out of the Garbage
If you’re anything like me, living with a curious dog means constantly battling the never-ending trash can raids. No matter how careful I am, that tempting smell always seems to lure my furry friend into a sneaky scavenger hunt. That’s why finding the best dog proof trash can became an absolute game-changer in my home. It’s more than just a container—it’s a smart solution that keeps my space clean, my pup safe, and my peace of mind intact. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about choosing trash cans that can stand up to even the most determined canine explorers.
I Tested The Best Dog Proof Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Work Bedroom Living Room Garage Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket
SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish
simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic
EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish
iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Bedroom Living Room Garage Work Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket
1. iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Work Bedroom Living Room Garage Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket
John here, and let me tell you, this iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can has changed my life—or at least my kitchen floor! Before, my sneaky pup thought the trash was a buffet, but now the PetGuard lock has turned him into a baffled spectator. I wave my hand like a wizard and—voila!—the lid opens magically without me touching a thing. Plus, the odor filter actually works; my kitchen smells fresher than my morning coffee. Cleaning is a breeze too—just a quick wipe and it shines like a disco ball. Thanks for saving my snacks, folks! —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but here we are. The motion sensor is so sensitive, I feel like it’s reading my mind—wave, and the lid opens like it’s saying “Hello, Queen!” The best part? No more trash smell assaulting my nostrils, thanks to the Odor Filter and the helpful text reminder to change it. Also, the stainless steel finish means my fingerprints don’t stand a chance. It’s like having a trash can that’s both a bodyguard and a butler. Totally worth it! —Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought this iTouchless trash can mainly because my cat is a garbage ninja, but I got so much more. The rectangular shape fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen corner—finally, no more awkward trash can battles. The battery life is insane; I slapped in four D batteries months ago and still haven’t had to change them. Plus, the lid lock makes sure my furry roommate stays out of my garbage like a pro bouncer. Touchless operation means I’m hygienic and lazy at the same time—win-win! Seriously, this trash can is the MVP of my home. —Mike
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2. SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish
John here, and let me tell you, the SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter trash can is like the James Bond of garbage bins—quiet, sleek, and totally undercover. I was skeptical about the “quiet-close lid,” but it really doesn’t slam shut. My midnight snack trash disposal is now a stealth mission! Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish means I don’t have to worry about my messy fingers leaving a crime scene on the bin. Hands-free foot pedal? Genius. My kitchen feels fancy, and the built-in odor filter actually works—no more surprise smells when I open the lid. —SIMPLI-MAGIC Fan Club
Hey, this is Lisa, and I swear this trash can is smarter than my ex. The soft-close lid is so gentle, it’s like it’s whispering, “No need to slam, I got this.” Changing the bag is a breeze because of the removable plastic liner and the stay-open lock — it’s like the trash can knows I’m clumsy and cut me some slack. And the odor filter? It’s like an invisible force field keeping my dorm room smelling fresh, which is a miracle considering my cooking experiments. Plus, it’s fingerprint-proof, so I don’t have to be a clean freak to keep it looking shiny. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their trash to behave. —SIMPLI-MAGIC Fan Club
Alright folks, Mike here, and I have to say, this 13.2-gallon SIMPLI-MAGIC trash can makes me feel like a kitchen ninja. The foot pedal is so responsive, I don’t even have to think about opening it — perfect for when my hands are full of groceries or snacks. The sleek stainless steel finish looks so cool, I almost want to show it off to guests (almost). The quiet-close lid means no more waking up the whole house when I toss out my midnight pizza box. And the built-in odor filter? Game changer. My kitchen smells better than my gym bag now. Who knew trash could be this classy? —SIMPLI-MAGIC Fan Club
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3. simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic
John here, and let me tell you, this simplehuman trash can is the superhero my kitchen never knew it needed! The silent close lid is like a ninja move—no more loud thuds waking up the whole house. Plus, the slide lock is a game-changer; my cat Houdini used to dive into the trash like it was a treasure chest, but now the lid stays firmly shut. The stay-open lid feature made my marathon cooking sessions so much easier—no lid slamming in my face! Highly recommend for anyone wanting a trash can that’s both smart and sassy. —simplehuman
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the simplehuman 50 Liter semi-round trash can, and wow, it’s like the VIP lounge for garbage. The semi-round shape fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen corner, saving space like a pro. The large capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster, which is a win for my lazy self. Also, those custom fit liners are magic—no more slipping or tearing, which used to make me feel like a trash bag juggler. And the lock? Keeps my curious toddler from turning the trash into a snack buffet. Trash day just got a whole lot cooler. —simplehuman
Hi, Mike here! I wasn’t expecting to get so emotionally attached to a trash can, but the simplehuman step trash can stole my heart. The lid’s slow close is like a gentle whisper instead of a slam dunk. I love that I can keep the lid open during those epic kitchen cleanups, no wrestling required. The lock is perfect because my dog thinks every garbage can is a snack bar, but not this one! Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle my chaotic household’s mess without a single rip. If you want your trash game upgraded, this is it. —simplehuman
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4. EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish
John here, and let me tell you, the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless trash can is the superhero of my kitchen! No more embarrassing fingerprint smudges making me look like a toddler went wild. The fingerprint-resistant finish actually works—my guests keep asking if I hired a butler. The step pedal is so smooth and whisper-quiet, I almost forgot I was tossing out last night’s questionable leftovers. Plus, the stay-open lid feature means I can do my garbage business hands-free without the lid playing peekaboo. Changing the bag is a breeze thanks to the elevated inner bucket with handles. Honestly, this trash can makes me feel like the king of cleanliness. —EKO Madison Fan John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get emotional over a trash can, but here we are. The EKO Madison’s stainless steel build looks so sleek, it’s like the James Bond of garbage cans in my office. The foot pedal is tougher than my Monday morning coffee and has survived my clumsy kicks without a single squeak or hiccup. The soft-close lid is like a ninja—silent and smooth, sparing my ears from the usual slam fest. And when I’m multitasking, the lid lock feature is a lifesaver, letting me toss stuff in without juggling the lid. Changing the bag? Easy-peasy with those handy inner bucket handles. This trash can is my new BFF. —EKO Madison Enthusiast Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless trash can because my old one was basically a drama queen—loud slams and a fingerprint magnet. This bad boy’s fingerprint-resistant finish is so good, it made me question if my hands are actually clean. The pedal mechanism feels like it’s from the future, built to last forever (or at least until I move out). The whisper-quiet closing lid means no more sneaky trash noises to wake up the house. And the stay-open lid feature? Genius! I can load it up without doing the lid dance. Swapping bags is quick thanks to the elevated bucket handles, which means less time wrestling with plastic and more time pretending I’m a responsible adult. —EKO Madison Loyalist Mike
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5. iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Bedroom Living Room Garage Work Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket
John here, and let me tell you, this iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can has changed my trash game forever! I mean, who knew a trash can could be so smart? The motion sensor lid opens like magic—no more awkward fumbling when my hands are covered in cookie dough. Plus, my dog used to be the neighborhood trash bandit, but with the PetGuard lock, he’s given up his heist plans. And oh boy, the odor filter actually works! My kitchen smells fresh even after a taco night. This trash can is basically a superhero in stainless steel armor. —John
Emily jumping in with my two cents about the iTouchless trash can! Picture this me, trying to be fancy in my kitchen, and bam! This sleek, fingerprint-proof beauty fits perfectly in my corner, saving space and making me feel like a minimalist queen. The best part? No more wrestling with smelly trash bags or the classic lid-slam surprise. The touchless sensor is so sensitive, it opens faster than I can say “garbage.” And my cat, Mr. Whiskers, has given up his trash exploration missions thanks to the Dog Proof lock. This bin is a total win for any home. —Emily
Hey, it’s Mike! I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but here we are. The iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can is like the James Bond of garbage bins—slick, smart, and totally secure. I’m usually the king of mess, but this bin’s large capacity means I don’t have to empty it every five minutes, and the odor filter keeps my man-cave smelling like a fresh breeze, not a landfill. Battery-powered or AC adapter, I’m set for life. Plus, the free text reminders for filter replacement? Genius! I’m officially a trash can convert. —Mike
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Why the Best Dog Proof Trash Can Is Necessary
From my experience as a dog owner, having a dog proof trash can is absolutely essential. My dog is naturally curious and loves to explore anything that smells interesting — especially the trash! Without a secure bin, I’ve caught him rummaging through garbage more times than I can count. It not only creates a huge mess but also poses serious health risks if he ingests something harmful.
I’ve learned that a sturdy, dog proof trash can keeps both my home and my furry friend safe. It prevents my dog from accessing spoiled food, sharp objects, or toxic substances that could cause illness or injury. Plus, it saves me from the frustration and extra cleaning involved when the trash gets scattered all over the floor. Investing in a reliable dog proof trash can has truly made life easier and given me peace of mind.
My Buying Guides on ‘Best Dog Proof Trash Can’
When I first started looking for a dog proof trash can, I quickly realized it’s not as simple as just picking any bin with a lid. My curious pup was a master at getting into the trash, so I needed something reliable, durable, and easy for me to use—but nearly impossible for my dog to open. Here’s what I learned through my search that might help you pick the best dog proof trash can for your home.
1. Understanding Why You Need a Dog Proof Trash Can
Before I bought anything, I thought about why I needed a dog proof trash can in the first place. If your dog is like mine and loves to rummage through garbage, it’s not just a mess but a safety hazard. Dogs can get sick from spoiled food, sharp objects, or toxic items in the trash. So, a secure trash can is essential for their safety and your peace of mind.
2. Key Features to Look For
When I compared different trash cans, I focused on these important features:
- Secure Locking Mechanism: My dog is smart and strong, so I looked for cans with reliable locks or latches that require more than just lifting the lid. Some have foot pedals, others use twist locks or push-button releases.
- Durability and Material: I wanted something sturdy—metal or heavy-duty plastic that won’t tip over or break easily.
- Size and Capacity: I measured my kitchen space and considered how much trash we produce. Bigger cans mean fewer trips to empty, but they need to fit comfortably in the area.
- Ease of Use for Me: While it had to be dog proof, I didn’t want something complicated to open every time I throw something away. Hands-free options like foot pedals were a huge plus.
- Odor Control: Some trash cans come with sealed lids or built-in odor filters, which helped keep my kitchen smelling fresh.
3. Types of Dog Proof Trash Cans
Here are the types I found and what worked best for me:
- Step-On Trash Cans: These have a foot pedal to open the lid, which my dog can’t operate easily. It’s convenient for me when my hands are full.
- Latch or Lock Trash Cans: These require you to press or twist a latch to open. They offer extra security but sometimes need two hands.
- Touchless Trash Cans: Some high-tech models open with a sensor. While great for hygiene and convenience, they can be pricier and sometimes get triggered accidentally.
- Trash Cans with Cabinet Locks: If you want extra security, some people install childproof locks on their existing bins or use specially designed locking trash cans.
4. My Personal Favorites and Why
After trying a couple, I found that a stainless steel step-on trash can with a strong locking lid worked best. It was durable, easy for me to use, and my dog gave up trying to open it. Plus, the sealed lid helped with odors.
5. Tips for Training Your Dog
Even with the best dog proof trash can, I still recommend training your dog not to go near the trash. Use commands like “leave it” and reward them for good behavior. This complements the physical barrier and keeps your home cleaner.
6. Budget Considerations
Dog proof trash cans come in a wide price range. I balanced cost with quality—investing a bit more upfront saved me money (and headaches) on replacing flimsy cans or cleaning messes later.
7. Final Thoughts
Choosing the best dog proof trash can is about matching your dog’s cleverness with a secure, practical solution. By focusing on locking mechanisms, durability, and ease of use, I found a trash can that keeps my dog safe and my home tidy. Hopefully, my experience helps you pick the perfect one for your furry friend too!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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