For many families, pets are more than just animals—they’re part of the family. But as every pet owner knows, dogs and cats can be tough on your floors. From muddy paw prints and food spills to the occasional scratch, the wrong flooring can quickly show wear and tear.
At Carpet House, we often get asked: What’s the best flooring for pets? The good news is, there are plenty of stylish and durable options that stand up to furry friends while still looking beautiful in your home.
1. Hybrid Flooring – The Pet Owner’s Favourite
Hybrid flooring is one of the best all-round choices for homes with pets. It’s waterproof, tough, and scratch-resistant, making it perfect for those little accidents or the zoomies around the house.
- Scratch Resistance: Excellent – durable wear layer handles claws and playtime.
- Spill Resistance: 100% waterproof – no stress over water bowls or accidents.
- Comfort: Feels warmer and quieter underfoot than some harder options.
Hybrid floors are easy to clean, so muddy paw prints are no problem—just wipe and you’re done.
2. Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP) – Comfortable & Practical
Vinyl planks are another excellent pet-friendly option. They’re soft underfoot, which makes them comfortable for pets to walk or lie on, and they’re also quiet reducing the sound of paws clicking across the floor.
- Scratch Resistance: Very good – tough against claws.
- Spill Resistance: 100% waterproof – no damage from accidents or spills.
- Comfort: Cushioned feel makes it easy on pets’ joints.
Vinyl is especially good for older pets that need a softer, slip-resistant surface.
3. Laminate Flooring – Durable and Affordable
Laminate flooring is a cost-effective option that still holds up well against pets. Its protective coating resists scratches and stains, though it’s not fully waterproof, so quick clean-ups are important.
- Scratch Resistance: Excellent – resistant to most claw marks.
- Spill Resistance: Good to moderate – newer waterproof laminates are available.
- Comfort: Slightly harder underfoot, but durable for active pets.
Laminate is a great choice for pet owners who want durability at a lower price point.
4. Engineered Timber Flooring – Beautiful with Care
If you love the look of real timber, engineered timber is a smarter choice than solid hardwood for pet owners. It’s more stable and less prone to warping, but it can still scratch more easily than vinyl, hybrid, or laminate.
- Scratch Resistance: Fair – claws can leave marks, but rugs can help protect high-traffic areas.
- Spill Resistance: Moderate – clean accidents quickly to prevent staining.
- Comfort: Warm and natural underfoot.
Engineered timber works best if you’re committed to a little extra care while enjoying the timeless look of real wood.
Tips for Maintaining Pet-Friendly Floors
No matter which flooring you choose, these habits will help extend its life:
- Keep your pet’s nails trimmed to reduce scratching.
- Place mats under food and water bowls.
- Use rugs in high-traffic areas to add extra protection.
- Clean up accidents and spills quickly.
- Vacuum regularly to remove fur, dirt, and grit.
The Verdict: Best Floors for Pets
If low-maintenance and durability are your top priorities, hybrid flooring and luxury vinyl planks are the stand-out winners for pet owners. Laminate also provides excellent scratch resistance at a budget-friendly price, while engineered timber offers a natural, premium look with a little extra care.
Looking for flooring that keeps up with your pets?
At Carpet House in Newtown, we’ll help you find the perfect balance between style, comfort, and durability. Visit our showroom or contact our friendly team today for expert advice and a free measure and quote.