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Including toys that can put them off the scent

Need to know how to stop your dog raiding the bin? It's a common habit in dogs and, besides making a mess, can potentially cause your pet harm if they come into contact with something dangerous or toxic in the bin.

Dr James Greenwood is the resident vet on BBC One’s Morning Live. As the owner of his own one-eyed Labrador called Oliver, James also knows a thing or two about bin-raiding behaviours. It is in fact a very common issue in Labradors.

“When it comes to dog personality traits, Labradors are great at spotting an opportunity!” he says. “The very first time they raid a bin, they make the association that their action leads to something really exciting as a reward – the bin contents! So, in their minds it makes perfect sense to check the bin daily for any new goodies. They’ll usually do this when you’re not around, not because they’re purposefully trying to ruin anyone’s day, but more because they’ve done it once, and it was great fun and so why not do it again?!”

So what does James suggest we do to stop curious Labradors and other dog breeds raiding the bin and how dangerous is it? Here are his tips:

When it comes to dogs getting their heads and mouths into a bin, there are two risks to consider: your dog coming into contact with potentially dangerous or toxic items in the bin and weight gain caused by overeating. This is what James has to say on both of those issues:

Be aware of toxic items in your bin

“Bin contents such as onion peelings, cooked bones or any food that has turned mouldy can be potentially extremely hazardous (even fatal) to any breed of dog," says James. Bins that likely contain such items should be even more carefully secured and monitored for dog break-ins. If you think your dog has eaten something harmful, monitor their symptoms and behaviour and contact a vet if you are concerned. In the meantime, get in the know with these helpful guides:

Undoing the damage of weight gain

A dog becoming overweight is another problem. In fact, when it comes to Labradors, a recent study even showed some have a genetic link that predisposes them to overeating and therefore gaining fat. But rather than using this as excuse, James says it's important owners see it as motivation to keep their dogs healthy:

“Carrying extra weight can lead to cardiovascular, joint, respiratory or hormonal conditions as well as diabetes and even cancer so it’s very important owners take the problem seriously.”

Luckily he explains the solution is straight forward: “Portion control is absolutely key – use the kitchen scales to weigh out each meal and take into consideration the calories offered as treats for training or for keeping our dogs settled. You should also make sure your dog is well exercised at the level it’s capable of.”

1. Firstly, find out why your dog eats from the bin? Look at their surroundings

James says the secret to keeping your dog away from the bin is first to pay attention to what might be attracting them in the first place. “Are they hungry? Can they smell something enticing?" asks James.

"Think of ways to avoid the temptation in the first place by keeping bins locked and secure, behind a cupboard door or in a different room to where your [dog] spends their time.” Try these tips:

James suggests giving your dog other things to keep them entertained. “If you don’t provide them with environmental enrichment, they’ll create their own way to stay entertained, which is often then misinterpreted by us as owners as being ‘naughty’ or as ‘bad behaviour’,” he explains.

“Labradors love sniffing, tearing things up, chewing and exploring. By purposefully redirecting their naturally inquisitive nature away from the bin and onto something you’re happy for them to root through, like a puzzle mat or a stuffed Kong, you will suddenly have made the bin seem a lot less exciting in comparison!

Here are the 12 best dog toys for 2021 to help keep boredom at bay.

For more tips, information and advice about Labradors buy the September issue of Country Living magazine, out on 28th August. Or you can subscribe here so you never miss an issue.

To learn more about James and his work follow him on Instagram @drjgreenwood.

This tyre-shaped chew toy has been made from durable rubber, so it's perfect for determined chewers. It also gives owners the chance to fill the inside with tasty treats, too. Available in two sizes for you to choose the best for your breed. 

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Made from durable nylon, this long-lasting chew toy challenges the most aggressive chewers. Your pup is certain to love the tasty flavour, too. 

As well as being cosy to cuddle, this sweet dragon toy features chew guard technology with a durable layer.

Built for durability, this bright red dog toy will offer your four-legged friend mental and physical stimulation. And at just £8.50, it's a real steal buy. 

Soft yet durable, this cute grey bear has minimal stuffing and an internal knotted rope skeleton. 

One of the toughest dog balls on the market, this sweet 'planet' design has been made with award-winning Orbee Tuff material. Certain to provide hours of fun... 

Does your pup love to play fetch? Well, this dog toy is one of the most durable styles around — and will aim to stand the test of time, no matter how much it is used. 

Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this floating fabric toy has a handle and is designed with abrasion-resistant materials for increased durability. Make sure not to forget it on your next beach trip. 

Want to treat your pup to a long-lasting toy? This floating ball has been constructed from thermo plastic rubber and is also infused with vanilla extract. 

This is no ordinary ball: made with aggressive chewers in mind, it's perfect for pups who need something firm to hold onto. It is 100% non-toxic, has a fun squeak sound and is infused with a natural mint oil. 

This durable rubber mango toy — which can be filled with dog treats — is sure to provide hours of chewing fun. Perfect for small and medium dog breeds. 

Keep your dog entertained for hours with this colourful chew toy on a durable rope. The makers explain: "Ruffer and Tuffer is specially designed to be stronger than the average, with a unique construction that delivers added durability with superior strength."

Perfect for aggressive chewers, this bright green bone toy helps to help clean teeth and control plaque, while providing endless hours of fun. 

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Thanks to the built-in rope, owners can throw this ball further for their pups to chase. It is used by the K-9 police as well as the Military Working Dog Teams, so it's both tough and durable. Brilliant if you want to train and motivate your dog. 

Give your pup a reason to have some fun with this adorable duck toy. Hardwearing and well-crafted, it has a hidden squeaker to keep your pet entertained. 

Perfect for fetch and interaction with your dog, this ball has been made with extra-tough rubber to stand the test of time. Thanks to its soft and unique surface, the ball will also keep your dog's gums healthy. 

Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden. 

This strong wheel dog toy is perfect for aggressive pulling and tugging. The specially developed soft rubber design helps to clean their teeth and massage their gums, while its engaging shape will provide hours of fun. 

This durable wooden stick is great for dogs who love to chew regularly. While keeping your dog occupied for hours, it's also great for their dental hygiene.  

Built to last, this fun donut dog toy has been made from high-quality material will not wear down dogs' teeth.

This bright orange fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this! 

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This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs. 

Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth. 

This durable pineapple toy has been built to last, helping to solve destructive chewing, teething, dental health, boredom, separation anxiety, training, and exercise. 

We love this unique toy, which is great for chew sessions and endless fun. Top tip: fill with peanut butter to extend playtime and satisfy chewing instincts.

In a blush pink, this large onion toy is surprisingly durable. Best of all, it's just over £3. 

This durable Bark Bone is infused with real bacon and is perfect for even the toughest chewers. Its non-toxic and non-allergenic materials mean its safe for your pup to enjoy. 

Looking for a durable rubber frisbee? Well, look no further, as this red style from KONG is perfect for keeping your four-legged friends fit and healthy. 

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