I agree, I'd definately crate him when your gone. Saves your house and hopefully makes him more comfortable. As for the trash can see if you can put it under the sink or in an area he can be blocked from My RB terrier Sandy was nightmare with the trash his entire life. I tried everthing and was never able to break that habit, so I just avoided giving him the chance. The kitchen trash was kept under the sink, and bathrooms were kept closed so he couldn't get to it.