The Best Flooring for Dogs: A Pet Owner’s Guide
If you have a furry friend living in your home, then you understand how messy and high-maintenance they can be.
Finding the perfect balance between keeping your home in check and keeping your dog comfortable is crucial if you don’t want scratched floors.
Today, Mersey Flooring will discuss the best flooring options for dog owners, so you don’t have to sacrifice the beauty of your home.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Flooring
Living with a dog can bring about new challenges that affect how you decorate your interior.
Your choice will impact not only the appearance and functionality of your home but also the comfort and safety of your pet. Consider the following factors to help you make the right choice:
- Dog’s size and activity level: Large and active dogs exert more pressure on your floors, so you need a floor that can keep up, such as laminate or vinyl. For smaller dogs, consider softer options, such as hardwood.
- Household needs: You need to determine what your household needs as a whole. For high-traffic areas, choose flooring that can withstand wear and tear. If the appearance of your home matters more to you, opt for a floor that blends seamlessly with the interior.
- Budget: Stick to what you can afford while opting for the best materials that you can. Don’t just consider the upfront cost but also the maintenance expenses. While some floors may cost more upfront, they could save you money on repairs in the long run.
- Health and allergies: If your dog has arthritis or joint issues, opt for softer floors like carpet or cork. Materials such as tile, hardwood, and vinyl are less likely to trap allergens, making them ideal for allergy sufferers.
Top Flooring Options for Dog Owners
1. Vinyl Flooring
A popular choice for many homes, vinyl offers durability, aesthetic appeal, and water resistance.
This is an ideal choice for pet owners, as it is resistant to scratches and dents and perfect for preventing claw marks. For those with puppies, this can handle all the puppy training and hold up against accidents and spills.
2. Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is composed of various protective layers, proving to be a worthy choice for high-traffic homes.
This floor can replicate anything from wood to tile, adding style and authenticity to your interior. Its scratch-resistant surface is excellent for dogs with sharp claws, and it’s more affordable than hardwood, making it perfect for those on a budget.
3. Hardwood Flooring
If you're looking for something more classic and timeless, hardwood flooring is your go-to choice.
Although this is more expensive, it adds elegance to any home and is very durable. Species such as hickory, oak, and maple are also harder to damage, making them ideal for homes with large dogs.
Plus, this flooring can be sanded and refinished multiple times to remove scratches.
4. Tile Flooring
Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways, tile flooring is a popular choice for pet owners.
This offers excellent moisture resistance and durability, withstanding heavy traffic and messy pets. Tiles are easier to clean, preventing the buildup of pet hair or dirt. However, tiles are hard underfoot, so this may not be an ideal choice for dogs with joint issues.
5. Carpet
Carpet is the best option if you’re looking for something warm and cosy.
This reduces the amount of noise in your home, making it perfect for hyperactive dogs who won’t keep still. Carpet is available in a wide range of colours and patterns, meaning there is something to match everyone’s preferences.
However, carpet is more prone to stains and dirt buildup, making cleaning more difficult.
Maintenance Tips for Pet-Friendly Flooring
- Use rugs and runners to protect expensive floors from damage.
- Clean your floors with enzymatic cleaners to remove pet stains and odours.
- Mop and vacuum your floors daily to remove pet hair and dirt.
- Keep your dog's nails trimmed to prevent scratching your floors.
- Use lint rollers to remove any stubborn hairs.
Invest in Pet-Friendly Flooring with Mersey Flooring
If your pet has destroyed your old floors or you're getting your home puppy ready, then you’ve come to the right place.
At Mersey Flooring, we offer a wide variety of durable and affordable floors, many of which are pet-approved.
From sturdy laminate to waterproof flooring, we can help you keep your home looking tidy and classy, even if it’s overrun by pets.