If you’re a dog owner thinking about remodeling or buying a new home, it’s a good idea to think about the best floors for dogs. Not only will the right flooring choice save you time and money avoiding damage from scratches and messes, it will also ensure your furry friend is as comfortable as possible at home.
Here are some of the best dog-friendly flooring materials to consider:
Laminate flooring is exceedingly durable and resistant to scratches, which makes it perfect for active dogs. Some laminate finishes mimic the appearance of hardwood flooring, but provide easier cleanup and better moisture resistance.
Cork is an eco-friendly and cost-effective flooring option great for homes with pets. It’s naturally hypoallergenic and antimicrobial, which makes it more resistant to mold and mildew when exposed to moisture. Best of all, cork has a cushy, shock-absorbing surface which makes it comfortable under your dog’s feet.
Engineered hardwood is perfect for homeowners who want the aesthetic of real hardwood floors without the price tag. Since engineered wood flooring still contains actual wood, it’s not as moisture or scratch resistant as other synthetic flooring materials. However, it’s easy to clean and less costly to repair if damaged.
Carpet floors might seem like a bad idea for pet owners - after all, carpeting is extremely susceptible to stains, odor retention and surface damage from claws. However, if you still want the same coziness of carpet in your dog-friendly home, there are some new and improved pet-specific options on the market you may want to consider.
No matter what type of flooring material you choose for your home, using these tips will give you an excellent place to start your search. By weighing the pros and cons of each - and considering your budget - you can pick the best floors for you and your furry friends.
Eddie Brissett is a native of Newburyport, Massachusetts where he attended Newburyport High School. He graduated from Fitchburg State College (FSC) with both a B.S. in Business Administration and an MBA in the late 1990s. He also played basketball at FSC.
In 2004, his real estate dream began when he purchased his first property- a condo. Working primarily in financial services for nearly 15 years, he transitioned into real estate full-time in 2013. He was the Condo Board Chairman (2005-2018) of the Rich Street Condo Association. He credits his parents and mainly his mom as among the biggest influences in his life. As a licensed real estate agent in several states, he serves buyers, sellers, renters, and landlords throughout the commonwealth of Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Florida.
"From an early age, I learned the value of hard work and standing by your word from my parents. These traits along with teamwork were reinforced from some tough sports coaches that I played for."
He enjoys spending his free time with family, friends, hiking, watching Boston sports teams, and is an accomplished billiards player.