7 Different Types of Flooring and How to Choose a Dog-Friendly Option

Choosing new flooring for your home can be an exciting process. With so many options to consider, it’s important to think about which floors will suit your lifestyle and hold up well with pets. Hardwood, tile, and laminate can be great choices for homes with dogs, while carpeting is often less ideal. Consider durability, ease of cleaning, cushioning, and cost when deciding which flooring works best for your family.

Hardwood Floors

Hardwood flooring is one of the most popular choices for homes with dogs thanks to its durability and timeless look. Pros of hardwood include:

Extremely durable for high-traffic areas like entryways and main living spaces. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory resist scratches and scuffs from dog nails and paws.
Easier to clean than carpeting. Hardwood can be swept and mopped as needed to remove dirt, hair, and other messes.
Withstands moisture better than many flooring options. Useful for homes with dogs that spend time outdoors.
Classic, warm look that fits any decor. Available in a range of wood species and stain colors.
Can be sanded and refinished over time to remove deeper scratches or restore color. With proper care, hardwoods can last decades.

Potential cons to consider are that hardwood can dent from dropped heavy objects or dog toys. Installation is also more expensive than other flooring options. Look for hardwoods advertised as “dog-friendly” or “pet-proof” for the most durable wood species and finishes.

Choosing a Hardwood Species

The species of wood impacts its hardness, grain pattern, color, and overall durability:

Oak is very resistant to pet-related damage thanks to its density and hardness. It has a distinctive grain and range of color options. White oak is the most scratch-resistant variety.
Maple has a fine, uniform grain that conceals scratches well. It has good stain absorption for versatile colors. Hard maple rates very high on hardness scales.
Hickory is a very dense, heavy wood that can withstand active dogs. It has a bold grain pattern and warm reddish-brown tones.
Australian Cypress has become popular for pets as a hardy but affordable hardwood option. It has an attractive mix of colors and grains.

Always check the Janka hardness rating when choosing wood species. The higher the number, the more resistant the floor will be to scratches and indentation.

Finishes for Hardwood Floors

The finish protects the wood and impacts its look and durability:

Polyurethane is the most common modern finish for hardwood floors. It forms a plastic-like coating that resists moisture, stains, and wear from pets. Oil-modified urethane offers the best protection.
Penetrating oil soaks into the wood grain to create a natural look. It requires more frequent refinishing but is easy for DIY maintenance. Brands like Rubio Monocoat are designed for pets.
Hardwax oils combine oil and wax for moisture resistance and a silky low-sheen finish. Dents and scratches can be spot repaired. Popular brands include Bona and Pallmann.
Aluminum oxide is sometimes added to urethane or finishes to further increase scratch resistance on hardwood floors.

Factory finishes are usually more durable than site-applied ones. Try to select pre-finished hardwood whenever possible.

Hardwood Floor Texture and Appearance

Visual texture and appearance factors also impact durability:

Smooth/flat hardwood shows the fewest signs of scratches or wear from pets.
Brushed/wire-brushed finishes create fine grooves for a worn-in look but can show more scraping from nails.
Hand-scraped/distressed hardwood has a rustic texture but is more prone to dents and irregular wear with dogs.
Oil finish brings out the natural color and grain of the wood. Urethane has a plasticky appearance in comparison.

See hardwood floor samples in person when possible to evaluate textures. Also ask about pet-friendly warranty options, which can provide coverage for finish damage from dogs.

Tile and Stone Floors

Tile floors are a smart choice in homes with dogs thanks to their waterproof, non-porous qualities. Benefits of tile and stone flooring include:

Highly scratch and stain resistant. Impervious to moisture and pet accidents.
Very easy to clean. Floors can be swept, mopped, or steam cleaned as needed. Grout may require sealing.
Durable and long-lasting. Properly installed tile can last decades with minimal wear.
Broad style selection. Choose from stone, ceramic, porcelain, glass, and more.
Resists odors better than carpeting or wood floors. Won’t trap smells from pets.
Stays cool in summer months. Provides a comfortable surface for dogs to lay on.

Potential cons are that tile can be slippery for dogs to walk on and is colder underfoot than other flooring in winter. Installation is also more tedious and expensive than materials like vinyl.

Choosing Durable, Dog-Friendly Tile

Consider the following factors when selecting tile floors for pets:

Porcelain is one of the most durable and stain-resistant types of ceramic tile. It’s very impervious to moisture.
Stone materials like slate and granite have outstanding hardness for high-traffic areas. Travertine less so.
Ceramic provides countless decorative options. Choose a high-fired clay and glazed tile for maximum scratch resistance.
Mosaics are prone to grout issues with dogs but can provide nice grip for paws. Use epoxy grout.
Larger format tiles like 12″x24″ planks are better than small tiles with lots of grout lines.
Textured surfaces add skid-resistance. But very rough tile can trap dirt from dog paws.
Darker tile hides dirt, hair, and other debris shed by pets. Whites and lights require more cleaning.

Be sure to buy extra tile during initial installation for any future repairs needed.

Non-Slip Measures for Dogs on Tile

Tile’s smooth surface can create traction issues for dogs, especially senior pets. To make floors less slippery:

Select tile with an inherent surface texture like slate riven stone or ribbed ceramics.
Use grout lines in a varied pattern to improve paw grip. Grid, dot/penny, and other non-linear grout layouts work well.
Apply anti-slip treatments made for tile like etching acid solutions or grip tape. Re-apply as directed.
Install runner rugs with non-slip backing in high traffic areas. Use ones that can be removed and washed frequently.
Consider professional installation of a slip-resistant epoxy coating over existing tile. Provides durable traction.

Be sure to place mats at entrances and keep floors clean of dirt/debris. Signs to watch for are dogs having trouble rising from laying down or sliding on floors. Address traction immediately if you notice issues.

Luxury Vinyl Plank and Tile

Luxury vinyl is one of the fastest growing segments of the flooring market, and for good reason. Waterproof vinyl plank flooring mimics the look of high-end tile and hardwood with more pet-friendly qualities. Benefits include:

Completely waterproof and highly scratch resistant plastic wear layer.
Attached cork underlayment provides cushioning for pets to lay on.
Easy DIY installation options like click-locking planks speed up the process.
Realistic stone, wood, and tile designs at more affordable prices.
Quieter and warmer underfoot than natural stone or hardwood floors.
Seamless appearance since planks float together versus being grouted.

Potential drawbacks are that luxury vinyl can dent from heavy impacts and lacks the lasting quality of real wood or tile. Fully adhered vinyl is more durable than floating click-lock planks.

Choosing Durable Luxury Vinyl Options

To narrow options, check product specifications for:

Wear layer thickness: 20 mil is ideal; 12 mil is standard. Thicker wear layers resist scratches.
Waterproofing: Should have 100% waterproof structural core for moisture resistance.
Attached underlayment: Prevents shifting plus adds cushioning. Replace products without it.
Proper vinyl type: Rigid core planks are best. Avoid cushioned or sheet vinyl.
Realistic patterns: Wood and tile looks should mimic the genuine material.

Luxury vinyl designed specifically for pets will advertise scratch and moisture resistance. Brands like LifeProof and PetProof are good options to consider.

Easy Maintenance with Luxury Vinyl

Top reasons luxury vinyl is easy to maintain with dogs:

No sealing or refinishing required as with real wood floors.
Planks are completely waterproof and won’t warp from accidents.
Low-profile click seams don’t trap dirt, hair and debris like carpet or grout lines.
Scratches can be buffed out for an like-new appearance again.
Pet messes are easily cleaned with damp mopping; no chemicals needed.
Few abrasive particles that erode floors compared to tile grout or hardwood.
DIY repairs can be done by replacing individual planks. No sanding/resurfacing required.

Daily sweeping then weekly damp mopping is generally sufficient to keep floors looking great. Be sure to trim dog nails regularly and place mats at doorways to limit tracked in debris.

Laminate Wood Floors

Laminate flooring offers the look of real hardwood floors with easier maintenance for an active dog household. Primary benefits include:

Provides the same visual appeal as traditional hardwood flooring. Difficult to distinguish.
Extremely affordable compared to natural wood or luxury vinyl.
Easy “floating floor” installation works well over existing floors or slabs.
Very durable plastic wear layer resists scratches, moisture, and stains.
Wide plank formats and realistic textures like distressed woods.
Underlayment included for noise reduction. Planks lock tightly to prevent shifts.

Potential laminate drawbacks are susceptibility to damage from excessive water and an unnatural feel underfoot. Proper moisture barriers are essential during installation.

Choosing Durable Laminate Products

Focus on these factors when selecting the most durable laminate floors:

AC rating of 3 or higher signifies high durability and wear resistance.
Wear layer thickness of at least 12 mil. Thicker is better.
Attached underlayment prevents flexing and noise.
Reputable brand names like Pergo, Mohawk, Shaw, and Mannington indicate quality.
Water-resistant core for protection from spills, accidents, and moisture.
25+ year warranties provide assurance of longevity.

Higher-priced laminates are more scratch and moisture resistant. But even budget options will likely outlast carpet.

Protecting and Cleaning Laminate Floors

Laminate is easy to maintain provided spills are promptly removed:

Use interior and exterior door mats to trap dirt, grit, and moisture from paws.
Trim dog nails often to prevent unnecessary scratching damage.
Clean up messes and spills immediately to avoid moisture seeping under planks.
Sweep, dry mop, or vacuum to remove pet hair, dander and debris.
Use laminate floor cleaner and microfiber mops for periodic damp cleaning. Avoid excessive water.
Place foam mats or rugs in high traffic dog areas and under food/water bowls.

In case of damage, individual planks can be replaced. But laminate repair kits are also available to fill in small scrapes and dents.

Cork Floors

Cork is a highly renewable and eco-friendly flooring material perfect for homes with dogs. Benefits of cork flooring include:

Naturally antimicrobial and hypoallergenic. Repels dust and allergens.
Extremely soft, supportive cushion for dogs that need to lay down often. Helps arthritis.
Sound absorbing properties reduce noise from claws clicking on floors.
Slight bounce and flexibility helps prevent injury if dogs fall.
Made from renewable harvested cork oak tree bark; sustainable product.
Naturally water- and stain-resistant. Handles messes and spills well.
Easy to install tiles or planks that can go over most existing flooring.

Potential cons are susceptibility to indentations from furniture or dog toys, the need for polyurethane coating, and limited style options. Proper installation is key.

Choosing Durable Cork Flooring

The highest quality cork for pets will have:

High density compressed cork that resists indentation better than low-density varieties. Weigh samples.
Pre-applied polyurethane finish for better moisture and stain protection. Site applied is less durable.
Attached cork underlayment for stability. Avoid “floating” planks prone to shifting.
Low VOC stains/finishes ensure good indoor air quality for pets. Water-based is best.
Thicker wear layers of 3/16″ or more to allow for future sanding/recoating.

Wood and stone visuals provide stylish options that fit any decor. Look for cork flooring warranted for residential use with pets.

Maintaining and Cleaning Cork Floors

Cork floor care involves:

Routinely sweeping and vacuuming dirt that could scratch finish
Immediately wiping spills and urine accidents on the surface with water
Using manufacturer’s recommended cleaners and finishes
Reapplying polyurethane every 1-2 years in high traffic areas
Placing rugs under dog beds, water bowls, and high wear areas
Keeping humidity moderate to prevent excessive drying/cracking
Sanding and recoating cork floors as needed to repair deeper scratches

Cork flooring costs more upfront but provides lasting value with simple maintenance. Refinishing restores floors vs. full replacement.

Rubber Flooring

Rubber is a highly versatile and pet-friendly flooring option perfect for laundry rooms, kennels, patios, and more. Benefits include:

Extremely water resistant and non-porous. Withstands chewing, drooling, accidents.
Provides cushioning and “give” that’s easy on pet joints. Alleviates pressure.
Naturally slip resistant texture offers secure footing, especially when wet.
Insulates against noise and temperature fluctuations for calmer pets.
Antimicrobial and resistant to mold, mildew growth. Controls odors.
Easy to sanitize and clean using mild detergent and water.
Often made from recycled tires for an eco-friendly flooring choice.

Potential cons are that rubber can fade over time, show scratches from dog nails, and have a strong odor initially. Costs are also higher than vinyl or laminate.

Choosing Durable, Quality Rubber Floors

These factors indicate heavier wear rubber flooring for pets:

Higher density and weight. Heavier rubber resists indentation best.
Thickness 3/8″ or higher. Thinner floors are prone to punctures.
One-piece rolled sheets are most durable. Tiles can crack at edges.
Heat welded seams provide a waterproof, seamless installation. Avoid glued seams.
Textured matte finish for optimal traction. Glossy floors can be slippery.
Antimicrobial additive prevents bacterial and mold growth. Look for built-in protection.
Higher shore hardness rating. 90+ indicates high durability and resistance to wear.

Cleaning and Maintenance of Rubber Floors

To properly care for rubber floors:

Remove solid debris promptly to avoid scratching. Use broom or vacuum.
Wash regularly with pH neutral cleaner using mop or brush. Avoid harsh detergents.
Disinfect with dilute bleach solution if needed. Rinse thoroughly.
Avoid exposure to oil, petrol, chemicals which can degrade rubber.
Limit direct sunlight exposure which can cause fading over time.
Place walk-off mats at entrances to reduce tracked in dirt and grit.
Inspect for damage and re-adhere loose edges or seams as needed.
Recoat with finish if glossy floors become scuffed and dull. Follow manufacturer’s directions.

With proper care, quality rubber floors can provide a lifetime of hassle-free use for dogs and pet parents.

Carpeting

Carpet provides a warm, comfortable environment for dogs and pet owners. But it requires more maintenance than hard surface flooring:

Pros of Carpet for Dogs

Soft, cushy surface is gentle on dogs’ paws and joints. Reduces fatigue.
Offers warmth and insulation from cold hard floors.
Provides sound absorption and muted acoustics which some dogs prefer.
Range of textures add visual interest and hide shedding/dirt better.
Relatively affordable purchase and installation costs compared to hard floors.

Cons of Carpet for Dogs

Trap odors, dander, hair and allergens without thorough frequent cleaning.
Prone to stains from urine, feces, mud, and other mishaps. Stains can be difficult to remove.
Moisture from spills or cleaning can get trapped in carpet backing and pad.
Wall to wall carpeting makes spot cleaning impossible