We know what you’re thinking: You want new floors but you’ve got dogs. If you get real wood, will they get ruined? If you opt for tile, will the dogs go slip-sliding away? Our design team has lots of tips that will make everyone happy.

Contact us today so we can get started on your custom designed and pet-friendly flooring! 805-842-9385

Wood floors

Wood flooring is one of the most valuable products you can put in your home, but many pet parents hesitate to add them for fear they will be ruined. It is true that dog and cat paws can pierce and scratch the wood. Highly-polished wood can also be a slip hazard—for animals and humans!

Distressed and hand-scraped wood has been one of the most popular flooring trends for several years, and this type of flooring is much more animal-friendly. Not only does the texture cut down on the sliding, but further nicks and scratches just add to the weathered look.

When choosing your wood floor, you’ll also want to keep the color in mind. Darker wood looks elegant, but tends to be harder to keep clean because it shows dust and, yes, pet hair.

Engineered floors

If you’re still concerned about laying down such a big expense for wood floors with animals ruling the roost but you want the look, check out our laminates. This product differs from wood floors in that it’s not completely made of hardwood. Instead, it is layered with plywood and topped by real wood.

In many cases, only the most trained eye can tell the difference between real and engineered wood, but you’ll know the difference—especially in the price you pay, since engineered tends to be less expensive.

Vinyl

Luxury Vinyl Plank is becoming a major flooring category because it is versatile, stylish, durable, and affordable. LVP loves pets — and kids — because it’s water resistant, and easy to maintain. These products can be used in areas that are not suitable for engineered wood such as bathrooms and utility rooms, where our furry friends often reside.

Tile

Or, you can go with wood-look tile. This mimics the look of wood with the durability and easy-care properties of tile. Tile is great for families with pets because it just wipes clean. Muddy paws—no problem! Slip-resistance is a factor, so many pet owners stay away from the slicker surfaces and stick to natural or ruddier textures.

Moroccan tile looks are another growing flooring trend, and one that works particularly well for pets—even larger dogs. The texture tends to help pets grip the floor, which can keep them safe, and, as a bonus, the busy patterns hide dirt!