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Why does my dog get aggressive and bite when I go near the trash can?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 2 years and 3 months old

Why does my dog bite anyone who gets near the trashcan?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 14th, 2017

It sounds like Blue considers the trashcan his territory, and he is protecting it by being aggressive when people get near it. Aggression is never a behavior that I recommend owners train on their own due to safety reasons. It's something that is best left to the experts. I would speak to your vet about a referral to a professional behavioral expert who can work with you and Blue on this aggressive behavior.

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