Pet-Friendly Flooring: What Works and What to Watch Out For
Our pets are part of the family, and just like any family member, they leave their mark—sometimes literally. Whether it’s muddy paw prints, the occasional accident, or just the everyday wear and tear of claws and fur, our furry companions can be tough on floors. Fortunately, there are plenty of stylish, durable flooring options that can stand up to pet life without sacrificing comfort or design.
When choosing pet-friendly flooring, the top considerations are durability, resistance to moisture and scratches, comfort underfoot, and ease of cleaning. Laminate continues to be one of the most popular options among pet owners—and for good reason. It offers realistic wood or stone visuals, is highly scratch-resistant, and stands up to water and messes. Plus, it’s softer and warmer than tile, making it more comfortable for pets to lie on.
Tile is another excellent choice, especially in homes with larger breeds or multiple pets. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are virtually indestructible, easy to clean, and don’t retain odors. They’re especially ideal for homes in warmer climates or for rooms like laundry areas and mudrooms. That said, tile can be cold and hard, so consider adding soft area rugs or pet beds to keep your pets comfortable.
If you love the look of wood but worry about pet damage, engineered hardwood may be a smart compromise. It offers the beauty of natural wood with a more stable core that resists moisture and temperature changes better than solid hardwood. Choosing a wood species with a high Janka hardness rating—like hickory or oak—can also help reduce dents and scratches. A matte or wire-brushed finish can go a long way in hiding minor scuffs from claws.
For carpet lovers, there’s good news. While wall-to-wall carpet isn’t usually the first recommendation for pet owners, today’s technology has made it more viable. Stain-resistant carpet made from solution-dyed fibers or nylon can help manage messes and odors, especially when paired with a moisture barrier pad underneath. Low-pile styles are easier to clean and won’t trap as much hair or dander as thicker plush options.
When planning pet-friendly floors, it’s also worth thinking about traction. Older pets especially benefit from surfaces that aren’t too slippery. Laminate with a textured finish, low-pile carpet, or matte-finish tile can help prevent slips and falls. If your pets love to zoom around corners, this small detail can make a big difference.
Maintenance is just as important as material. Make it a habit to trim your pets’ nails regularly, use absorbent mats near food and water bowls, and keep a clean-up kit handy for unexpected messes. Strategic placement of washable area rugs can help protect high-traffic zones while adding warmth and style to your space.
Another consideration many pet owners overlook is noise. Some flooring—like laminate or hardwood—can amplify the sound of nails clicking or pets running across the surface. If that’s a concern in your home, adding area rugs or choosing a material with sound-absorbing qualities can help create a more peaceful environment.
At Bay Area Floors, we understand that your floors need to work as hard as you do—especially when pets are part of the equation. That’s why we stock a range of flooring options designed to stand up to real life, including waterproof LVP, high-performance carpet, durable tile, and more. Our team can walk you through the best options based on your lifestyle, pet needs, and personal style.
Whether you’re redoing a whole house or upgrading a single room, we’ll help you strike the perfect balance between pet-friendly function and beautiful design. Come by our showroom or schedule a consultation to explore your options and get expert advice tailored to your space.
Special Offer: Celebrate Pet Perfect Month with Shaw Floors!
This May, Shaw is offering 18 months special financing (with approved credit) on their PetPerfect™ flooring collections—specifically engineered to stand up to pet life without sacrificing style. From stain resistance to durable construction, these floors are perfect for busy households full of furry friends.
Visit Bay Area Floors between May 1–31, 2025 to learn more about this limited-time offer and find the perfect pet-friendly flooring for your home!
(See store for financing details.)