How to Keep Your Dog Out of the Trash

Digging through the trash can be a dangerous habit for your dog. 

If you have a dog that digs through the trash, you should know that this behavior isn’t just bad for you, it’s also bad for your dog! In our last blog, our veterinarian in Levittown talked about possible reasons why dogs dig through the trash and what the risks are. Keeping your dog out of the trash can is an important part of protecting them and keeping them safe. That’s why your friends at East Meadow Veterinary Center have come up with this list of expert tips for keeping your dog out of the trash:

#1. Secure the lid.

If you have a dog, every trash can in your home should, at least, have a lid, but oftentimes, that isn’t enough. It’s also a good idea to take steps to secure the lid of your trash can. Depending on the kind of trash can you have, you could keep the lid securely shut with velcro or bungee cords.

#2. Feed your dog more often.

If you feed your dog just once or twice a day, they may be digging in the trash can because they are hungry. You don’t necessarily have to feed your dog more, but it might be beneficial to spread their food out a bit more and feed them another time during the day.

#3. Keep your trash can in a cabinet or behind a door. 

One of the easiest ways to keep your dog out of the trash can is by storing it behind a closed door or cabinet. Just remember to keep the door closed!

These are just a few of the many ways you can keep your dog out of the trash. Would you like to learn more? If so, please stay tuned for our next blog.

Are you sick of finding trash strewn all over the floor?

If so, you’ll be glad to know that our veterinary clinic in North Merrick is here to help. Digging through the trash isn’t just a bad habit for your dog, it’s also a dangerous one. Your dog may ingest something that is toxic or something that could block their intestines, so it’s absolutely essential to keep them out of the trash. In our last blog, we went over several tips to keep your dog out of the trash can. Keep reading to learn about more ways to keep your dog out of the trash:

#4. Spray your can with dog repellent. 

There are many kinds of dog repellent out there that are designed to keep dogs away. One way to keep your dog out of the trash is by spraying your can with some dog repellent. If that doesn’t work, try sprinkling a little bit of baking soda on the lid of your can. Once your dog tastes it, they won’t like it and they may stop trying to get into the trash.

#5. Keep your dog entertained.

As we discussed in a previous blog, some dogs dig through the trash simply because they are bored. If this is the case for your dog, try to keep them entertained more often. Stimulate their brain by playing hide-n-go-seek or investing in a dog treat puzzle. It’s also a good idea to exercise your dog more so that they can get some of their energy out.

Do you have any questions or concerns about keeping your dog out of the trash? If so, contact us at East Meadow Veterinary Center today!