Choosing a Truly Dog Proof Litter Box: Is Automation the Answer?

Have you ever walked into your living room and seen your dog with litter crumbs on their face? Or maybe you’ve caught them digging through the cat’s litter box like it’s a hidden snack stash? If so, you’re definitely not the only one. This messy and gross habit is common in homes with both cats and dogs. That’s why many pet owners are looking for a dog proof litter box to stop the chaos. Not only is this behavior frustrating, but it also spreads bad smells and can even be unsafe for your dog.

In this guide, we’ll explain why litter boxes so tempt dogs, take a look at common ways people try to fix it (and why they don’t always work), and share a smarter, cleaner solution to help keep your home—and your pets—safe and happy.

 

Why Is Your Dog Always Digging in the Litter Box?

Many pet parents struggle with dog proofing the cat litter box to stop this messy and unhealthy habit. Before we talk about how to prevent it, let’s look at why your dog is so obsessed with the litter box in the first place.

1. The Smell Is Just Too Tempting

Dogs have super-powered noses—about 300 million smell receptors, compared to our 6 million. To them, cat poop has a strong and interesting scent. It tells them about another animal’s diet and health, like a smelly version of social media. Gross to us, but fascinating to your dog.

2. Natural Curiosity

Dogs explore the world through smell and taste. The litter box is full of strange, strong smells, so they just have to check it out. It’s part of being a dog.

3. Searching for Something Missing

Some dogs get into the litter box because their diet might be missing something. In rare cases, dogs may have a condition called pica, which causes them to eat non-food items like litter or poop.

4. Bad Habit That Sticks

Once a dog discovers the “snacks” in the litter box, they might keep coming back for more. It becomes a habit fast—especially if no one stops them.

 

Traditional “Dog Proof” Cat Litter Box Solutions

If your dog keeps sneaking into the litter box, you might have already tried some common “dog proof” tricks. From covered litter boxes to pet gates, there are plenty of ideas out there. But each option has its own set of problems. Let’s break them down:

🔴 Covered Litter Boxes for Dogs

Pros: A box with a lid or enclosure creates a barrier that might keep some dogs out.
Cons: Poor airflow can trap smells. Many cats don’t like the tight space. Plus, they’re harder to clean.

🔴 Top Entry Litter Boxes for Dogs

Pros: These are harder for most dogs to reach inside.
Cons: Older or less mobile cats may struggle to climb in. Also, cats often track litter on the way out.

🔴 High-Sided or Elevated Litter Boxes

Pros: These can help keep small dogs out and reduce tracking.
Cons: Not ideal for senior cats who can’t jump or climb easily. They also make scooping more awkward for owners.

🔴 Litter Box in Cabinet or Enclosure

Pros: Hiding the box inside furniture or a dog proof cat litter enclosure can keep dogs out and blend into your home.
Cons: These setups may cost more, reduce airflow, and still be tricky for some cats to use comfortably.

 

A Smarter Approach: Neakasa Automatic Litter Box

As we seek more effective and convenient solutions, smart technology offers promising alternatives. The Neakasa Open Automatic Litter Box represents a new approach to this age-old problem.

One of the best parts of the Neakasa box is its self-cleaning feature. Right after your cat uses the litter box, smart sensors kick in. Within minutes, the waste is cleaned away. That means there’s much less chance your dog will sniff it out and try to dig in.

More Reasons to Love It:

• Open Design = Less Smell, Easier Cleaning
  No more stuffy covered boxes. The open top keeps air flowing, which helps control odor and makes cleaning simple.
• Keeps Bad Smells Down
  Since it cleans itself quickly, there’s less time for smelly stuff to build up—so dogs are less likely to be interested.
• Know What’s Happening With the App
  The smart app lets you see when your cat has used the box and reminds you when it needs care. It’s like having a helper in your pocket.
• Cleaner Box, Healthier Home
  With waste removed faster, your home stays cleaner and safer—not just for your cat, but for everyone.

Combine Neakasa with Smart Dog-Proof Strategies

Actually, the Neakasa Open Automatic Litter Box isn’t made to be a dog proof litter box, but it can be a big help—especially when used with a few smart tricks.

Here’s how to get the most out of it in a home with both cats and dogs:

1. Make Cat-Only Zones

Use baby gates with small pet doors, or install a cat door into a closet or spare room. That way, your cat can reach the litter box, but your dog can't. The Neakasa cleans itself, so you won’t need to go in and scoop often.

2. Rearrange the Furniture

Set up furniture so your cat can slip through but your dog can’t. Narrow gaps, small pathways, or multi-level setups work great for cats but not for most dogs.

3. Keep an Eye on the Box

Even though the Neakasa is automatic, check it every few days to make sure it's working right and cleaning as it should.

4. Empty the Waste Bin Often

Don't let waste pile up. If the bin gets too full, odors might build and still catch your dog’s attention.

5. Train Your Dog

Use simple commands like “leave it” and reward your dog for staying away from the litter box. Over time, they’ll learn that it’s not a snack station.

6. Watch and Adjust

See how your dog reacts to the new setup. If they’re still curious, try moving the box or making your barriers stronger.

With the right setup and smart habits, you can turn your Neakasa into a highly effective dog proof litter box solution—without stressing out your cat or yourself.

 

Conclusion

Having both a cat and a dog in the house is awesome—but it can come with some messy problems. One of the biggest? The litter box. Many pet owners deal with the same thing: a dog who just can’t stay out of it.

But the good news is, this problem can be fixed.

The Neakasa Open Automatic Litter Box gives you a smart way to help. Even though it’s not sold as a dog proof litter box, its automatic cleaning system makes a big difference. It quickly clears away waste, which means there's less for your dog to find (or smell!).

Most of all, be patient. Pets need time to adjust to changes. Stick with your plan, and soon you’ll have a home that’s cleaner, calmer, and dog-litter-drama-free.