Please Help!!!!

Question
So my boxer is almost 1 year 1/2, and I can't break him of the habit of getting into the garbage can. It drives me nuts. I even bought a heavy stainless still one thinking he can't tip it over, but that was no help. It's almost a for sure thing that if I leave the house and don't move it I come home to a huge mess. I don't want to feel like I have to move it every time I leave...I will take any suggestions I can get!!!!

Answer
Hi Brooklyn,

Unfortunately if he's not getting into it when you aren't around, there's not much you can do but move it.  

When you're not home, and he tips it, there's nothing but reward.  There's no consequence or correction.

There are scat mats you could try...they give a brief electric shock (similar to static electricity) when the animal steps on them.  You could put the garbage can behind a mat.

You could also line the can and just remove the bag when you leave.  Fill the can with water (you'd have to expect a mess) and when he tips it over...splash, no reward.  Works especially well if they don't like water.

You could also fill it with empty aluminum cans.

Beyond these, can you babygate the kitchen off?  Or put him in an area of the house where he won't have access?

Another thing you could try, when you're home, is to close the lid and put something very tasty on top...smelly and tasty...a raw hamburger patty, etc.  Walk him around the kitchen on lead...as soon as he focuses on the can, give him a quick correction and walk him the other way.  Over and over and over.

Anything you decide to do, you'll have to be consistent with.  He's had a year and a 1/2 to form the habit, it won't break overnight.  :)

Good luck...it's a tough one!  :)