Published on August 3, 2025 by Filip
Last updated on August 3, 2025
Your kitchen might be your favorite place to cook and hang out – but to your dog or cat, it’s a maze of mystery smells and irresistible temptations. Whether it’s tipping over the trash or chewing on that weird sponge under the sink, pets can get into trouble fast. And unfortunately, a lot of everyday kitchen gear isn’t designed with them in mind.
This guide is here to help. It’s packed with kitchen tools, products, and small upgrades that make your cooking space safer and less stressful for both you and your pets. The goal isn’t to turn your home into a prison, but to add smart barriers and upgrades that work without getting in the way of real-life cooking and cleaning.
🗑️ Kitchen Trash Cans Designed for Dogs
To dogs, trash equals treasure. From scraps and bone remnants to wrappers and all those smells you try to avoid, dogs want a piece of it all. The ideal dog-proof trash can contains all odors, and it makes access to the trash nearly impossible, even for the most persistent pups.
- iTouchless Sensor Trash Can – Good for clean kitchens and scent-driven dogs. The lid seals tightly and has an odor filter, while also allowing for touchless opening.
- Rubbermaid Premier with Locking Lid – A basic version that is good for the budget and offers a simple design. It has a locking lid which prevents basic nosing and pawing.
- Simplehuman Premium Step Can – Perfect for larger dogs who like to tip things. The can is heavy-duty built and the pedal action is strong.
Some owners like using in-cabinet bins to store food scraps. The main focus should be how to eliminate access to paws while controlling tightly sealed smells.
- 👉 Dive deeper: Best Dog-Proof Trash Cans
🚪 Cabinet Locks & Pet Barriers
Your cabinets might be filled with pantry snacks and cleaning chemicals, which are things you don’t want your pet to get into. Unfortunately, most dogs don’t respect a closed door unless it actually stays shut.
Here are some simple tools that make a big difference:
- Magnetic Safety Locks – They are strong, hidden, and child/pet-proof. Excellent for base cabinets with food or sharp objects.
- Adjustable Pet Gates – Block off the kitchen during cooking hours, which is especially useful for dogs with counter-surfing habits.
- Adhesive Child Latches – These are quick to install and still effective at stopping curious noses or paws from prying doors open.
Bonus: These tools also prevent pets from accidentally knocking over stacked kitchen gear or getting behind appliances.
🧼 Pet-Safe Floor & Surface Cleaners
Even if your dog or cat isn’t actively licking the floor, they’re still walking on it and picking up residues from whatever you’ve been cleaning with. You know the cleaner matters because we’ve all seen dogs lick eat and lick everything off the pile once we drop even a microscopic piece of food.
Here are pet-safe options that work really well for everyday messes:
- Better Life Natural All-Purpose Cleaner – No harsh chemicals, no sticky residue, and safe for paws and food areas.
- Puracy Multi-Surface Cleaner – Lightly scented, eco-friendly, and non-toxic — even if your dog licks the floor.
- Seventh Generation Disinfecting Wipes – Great for quick cleanups after cooking. No bleach, no ammonia.
Looking for more options? Browse the full list of EPA Safer Choice Certified Products.
🍳 Non-Toxic Cookware That’s Safer for Pets (and You)
Teflon and scratched-up non-stick pans can be dangerous, and not just for you, but for your pet if they happen to lick or chew a flaked-off piece. That’s why switching to more durable and non-toxic cookware makes sense for pet households.
Options worth considering include:
- Ceramic-Coated Cookware – Like GreenLife or Caraway. Free from PFAS, PTFE, and other sketchy coatings.
- Stainless Steel Pans – Durable, easy to clean, and it never peels. Just keep an eye on oil residue when pets are nearby.
If you use traditional non-stick pans, make sure to replace them once they show signs of wear. Also, keep them out of reach when you’re cooling or soaking.
🗃️ Hidden Bins & In-Cabinet Options
If you’ve got a particularly sneaky dog – or a small kitchen with limited space – then hiding your trash is often the best move. In-cabinet trash cans keep things out of sight and reduce the smell factor by a big margin.
- Simplehuman In-Cabinet Trash Bin – A compact, steel-frame bin that stays tucked away. This one is great for food scraps.
- Pull-Out Trash Systems – Popular in custom cabinets. You can use them for compost, trash – or both.
You’ll need cabinet space and either a mount or track system, but once installed, these bins are practically invisible to your pet.
✅ Quick Pet-Proofing Tips for the Kitchen
You don’t need to redo your whole kitchen, because sometimes it’s just about a few smart habits:
- Always keep food scraps, bones, or wrappers out of reach
- Wipe counters after cooking, because dogs will lick anything that smells edible
- Use a mat under your dog’s water and food bowls to avoid slip zones and mess
- Teach your canine a “leave it” or “stay out” command for when you’re prepping meals
- Keep your knives and other sharp utensils away from the edges of drying racks or counters
- Unplug any mixers or appliances with cords that are hanging within paw reach
Small changes can make a big difference, especially if you’ve got a new puppy or a dog that’s a bit too smart for their own good.
🔗 More Pet-Proof Kitchen Resources
Want to go deeper or upgrade more of your space? Here are a few focused guides:
Got your own pet-proofing trick, or you’ve found a product that actually held up to your golden retriever’s trash raids? Shoot a message or leave a comment – I’m always looking to feature real-world tips from real homes, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
