The Best Flooring for Dogs
The Best Flooring for Dogs
Our top picks: Best floors for dogs
As a dog owner, your floors face unique challenges like claw marks, muddy paw prints, and the occasional accident. This guide will help you explore the best flooring for dogs, including materials that are durable, easy to clean, and comfortable for your furry friend. Check out these options that will keep both you and your pup happy!
Pet-friendly flooring
Before diving into specific materials, let’s break down the essentials for pet-proof floors.
Durability: Look for floors that can withstand scratches and wear from high-energy activities and daily zoomies.
Water resistance: Choose materials that offer water resistance to prevent damage from accidents or spills.
Slip resistance: Opt for surfaces that provide slip resistance to prevent injuries, especially as your dog ages.
Easy maintenance: Select flooring that is easy to clean and maintain, so muddy paws and pet hair aren’t a hassle.
Comfort: Consider flooring that provides comfort for your dog's joints, ensuring a soft and supportive surface.
Safety: Ensure your flooring reduces the risk of falls and injuries for both pets and people by offering good traction.
Aesthetics: Pick a style that complements your home's aesthetic without compromising on functionality.
Luxury vinyl
Luxury vinyl, available in planks (LVP) or tiles (LVT), combines waterproof durability with the look of real stone or wood. Ideal for active pets, the cushioned layers absorb noise and provide comfort and traction. Select a product with a wear layer of at least 20 millimeters for good pet resistance.
Price: Luxury vinyl costs $4 to $16 per square foot, including installation. Prices depend on the plank thickness, wear-layer quality, and texture you choose.
Benefits:
Waterproof construction prevents spills from seeping through.
Scratch-resistant top layer handles claws and heavy traffic.
Slip-resistant textures are available for added safety.
Other considerations: Lower-quality vinyl may dent under furniture and can look cheap compared to natural materials.
Tile floors
Tile offers unmatched scratch resistance and waterproof performance, ideal for messy pets. Matte finishes or textured tiles improve traction, reducing slip risks for active dogs. Porcelain tiles are more durable than ceramic, offering better resistance. Seal grout lines or use epoxy grout to prevent staining and moisture damage.
Price: Tile installation costs $10 to $50 per square foot installed, based on tile size, finish, and installation complexity.
Benefits:
The stain-proof surface wipes clean effortlessly.
It stays cool underfoot for pets in warm climates.
The lifespan exceeds 20 years with minimal care.
Other considerations: Tile surfaces can be uncomfortable for pets to lie on for extended periods and can also amplify the annoying sound of claws clicking. Using area rugs can make the floor more comfortable and dampen the noise.
Laminate
Laminate flooring offers scratch resistance and affordability, making it a practical choice for pet owners. Modern waterproof options provide added protection against spills, while textured finishes improve traction for active dogs. The wood-like appearance suits various home styles without the high cost of hardwood.
Price: Laminate floors cost $4 to $14 per square foot installed. Prices vary depending on the style, thickness, and waterproofing technology.
Benefits:
The scratch-resistant wear layer withstands claws.
Waterproof options prevent warping from accidents.
Easy cleaning is achievable with a damp mop or vacuum.
Other considerations: Laminate can be slippery when wet. Choose AC4/AC5-rated laminates for high-traffic areas and consider textured finishes to reduce slip risks. Also, use felt pads under furniture to minimize damage.
Engineered hardwood
Engineered hardwood combines a real wood veneer with a multi-layer plywood/HDF core, offering enhanced durability and moisture resistance compared to solid hardwood. Its cross-grain construction minimizes warping, making it suitable for homes with pets. For best results, opt for harder wood species such as hickory or oak.
Price: Engineered hardwood costs $7 to $20 per square foot installed, based on veneer thickness, wood species, and core construction.
Benefits:
The surface can be refinished once or twice for minor scratches.
It is warmer underfoot than tile or vinyl.
Can give you the aesthetic appeal of natural wood grains.
Other considerations: Engineered hardwood is vulnerable to water damage, so be sure to wipe spills or accidents immediately. Also, choose hand-scraped or wire-brushed surfaces which hide scratches better than smooth finishes.
Hardwood flooring
Solid hardwood offers a classic look and feel, with options like oak, maple, and hickory providing durability against pet scratches. Textured finishes and matte sheens help hide blemishes.
Price: Hardwood floors cost $11 to $25 per square foot installed, depending on the wood species, plank width, and finish type.
Benefits:
Offers a timeless aesthetic with natural wood beauty.
Durable when properly maintained.
You're able to refinish it multiple times to restore appearance.
Other considerations:
Solid hardwood scratches easily and can warp from moisture. To protect it, keep your dog’s nails trimmed, use rugs in high-traffic zones, and clean spills immediately. Additionally, opt for matte finishes with aluminum oxide coatings for enhanced scratch resistance.
The Janka hardness scale is a measure of the resistance of wood to denting and wear. Choose a hardwood flooring option with a high Janka rating for better durability.
Bamboo flooring
Bamboo offers eco-friendly durability with a hardness similar to oak, making it a great choice for homes with pets. It’s important to note that not all bamboo is created equal; strand-woven bamboo provides extra scratch resistance and is much more durable than horizontal or vertical bamboo.
Price: Bamboo flooring costs $7 to $17 per square foot installed, depending on strand-woven density and finish.
Benefits:
This fast-growing grass is highly sustainable.
Low-maintenance surface resists daily wear.
Offers a modern aesthetic with natural variations.
Other considerations: Bamboo can swell and warp in humid environments and shrink in dry ones. Maintain a stable humidity level in your home and only use a slightly damp mop when cleaning it. Place felt pads under furniture and keep your pet's nails trimmed to minimize damage.
Cork flooring
Cork flooring offers a soft, eco-friendly surface that cushions joints and reduces noise, making it ideal for homes with pets. Cork keeps floors warm and comfortable and naturally resists mold, dust, and allergens. Its unique cellular structure allows it to bounce back from dents, though heavy furniture or sharp claws can leave marks.
Price: Cork floors cost $6 to $12 per square foot, with installation included. Prices depend on thickness and finish.
Benefits:
The soft surface eases pressure on aging pets’ joints.
Repels dust, mold, and mildew naturally.
Reduces noise from claws and footsteps.
Made from renewable cork oak bark (harvested every 9 years without harming trees).
Keeps floors warm in winter and reduces energy costs.
Other considerations: Cork requires resealing every 3 to 5 years. For enhanced durability and scratch resistance, choose glue-down tiles with a durable finish. Use rugs in high-traffic areas to reduce wear and prevent fading from direct sunlight.
Concrete flooring
Concrete floors are an excellent choice for homes with pets, offering unmatched durability and practicality. Polished concrete is resistant to scratches from claws, easy to clean, and hypoallergenic, making it a hygienic option for pet owners.
The cool surface is particularly appreciated by pets in warmer climates, while its seamless finish prevents the trapping of fur, dander, or odors.
Price: Polished concrete flooring costs $3 to $8 per square foot depending on the complexity of the design and finish.
Benefits:
Highly durable and scratch resistant.
Easy to clean and maintain—ideal for managing pet messes.
Hypoallergenic, as it doesn’t trap fur, dander, or pests like fleas.
Provides a cool surface that pets enjoy during warm weather.
Long-lasting and cost-effective over time.
Other considerations:
Concrete’s hard surface may be uncomfortable for pets to lie on for extended periods. To make it more comfortable, use area rugs or pet beds for comfort. Also, consider a textured finish or anti-slip mats to improve traction, especially for older pets with joint issues.
Don’t forget to seal polished concrete when it's installed, and then every 1 to 3 years (or as needed) to keep it stain-resistant, protected from moisture, and easy to clean after pet messes.
Carpet
You may not consider carpet when selecting pet-friendly flooring, but it's actually a great option for many pet owners. Carpet is soft, comfortable, and reduces the risk of slips and falls, which can be beneficial for older or mobility-impaired pets. Additionally, carpet acts as a sound absorber for active pets.
Price: Carpet installation costs from $2 to $8 per square foot, depending on the quality and features like stain resistance and waterproof backing.
Benefits:
Provides a soft surface that is gentle on pets' joints and offers traction to prevent slipping.
Absorbs sound, reducing the noise of pets running around the house.
Available in pet-friendly materials that are stain-resistant and easy to clean.
Adds warmth in colder months and helps regulate indoor temperatures.
Other considerations:
To maintain pet-friendly carpets effectively, vacuum regularly (at least twice a week) to remove pet hair and dander before they become embedded in the fibers. Also, blot spills immediately, and use pet-safe cleaning solutions to prevent stains from setting in.
Flooring cost comparison
When picking a pet friendly flooring, it’s essential to consider factors such as flooring installation costs, durability, and design style. Whether you prefer a classic, timeless look or a sleek, modern style, there are numerous options available.
The following table provides a quick reference guide to help you compare and select the perfect flooring for your home:
| Flooring type | Average installed cost (per square foot) |
Lifespan | Our top picks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxury vinyl | $4 – $16 | 15 – 25 years | Best waterproof option |
| Tile | $10 – $50 | 50+ years | Most design options |
| Laminate | $4 – $14 | 10 – 25 years | Best on a budget |
| Engineered wood | $7 – $20 | 20 – 30 years | Most versatile |
| Hardwood | $11 – $25 | 50+ years | Best resale value |
| Bamboo | $7 – $17 | 25 – 50 years | Best eco-friendly option |
| Cork | $6 – $12 | 40+ years | Best for comfort |
| Concrete | $3 – $8 | Lifetime (with resealing) | Most durable |
| Carpet | $2 – $8 | 5 – 15 years | Best noise reduction |
Visit our other guides on the Best Flooring for Kitchens and the Best Flooring for Basements to discover additional flooring options that can work for your busy household.
FAQs
What is the best flooring for dogs?
Luxury vinyl flooring and tile flooring are among the best pet-friendly floor options. They are durable, easy to clean, and have options to suit most styles and budgets.
What is the best hardwood floor for dogs?
Hickory, oak, and maple are excellent hardwood options for dogs due to their durability and scratch resistance. Hickory is notable for its high hardness rating, making it ideal for active pets.
What is the best flooring for dogs that pee?
Luxury vinyl flooring and porcelain tiles are excellent choices for dogs that have a habit of urinating on the floor, as these materials are water-resistant and easy to clean.
Getting estimates from floor installers
When seeking estimates from flooring installers for pet-friendly flooring, being well-prepared ensures you receive accurate and comprehensive quotes. These tips can help:
Clearly specify the type of pet-friendly flooring you want, such as luxury vinyl or tile, to get a precise quote.
Ensure the estimate includes costs for any additional services like removal of old flooring or subfloor preparation.
Obtain quotes from several installers to compare prices and services.
Ask for a detailed, written estimate that includes all costs, such as materials, labor, and any additional services.
Inquire about any warranty offered on the installation and materials.
Questions to ask a flooring installer
When choosing a flooring installer, ask these important questions to find the most qualified professional for your project:
What types of flooring are most durable and resistant to pet scratches and accidents?
How easy is the flooring to clean and maintain, especially after pet accidents?
Does the flooring provide good traction to prevent slipping?
Are there any specific installation methods or materials that enhance pet-friendliness?
How long will this flooring take to install?
Will you need to do any prep work before we begin?
What kind of warranty or guarantee do you offer on the flooring and installation?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.