I've heard on a mastiff board that I belong to that some of them line up soda cans on the counter and when they are knocked over it scares them. Couldn't hurt to try

As far as the garbage goes, we have a big wooden one with a lid. But he did used to try to get into the one in the bathroom and with me saying no leave it so many times he doesn't even try to get into it now.

I hope you find something that works for Mercedes...Good Luck!