Dog Friendly Home Decor: 30+ Ideas for a Stylish and Pet-Safe Home
Welcome to the ultimate guide to creating a stunningly beautiful and incredibly functional home that you and your furry best friend can enjoy together! Gone are the days of sacrificing style for the sake of your pet. With
these dog friendly home decor ideas, you can have a space that’s not only chic and inviting but also durable, safe, and comfortable for your four-legged family member.
Dog Friendly Home Decor
Choosing the Right Flooring: The Foundation of Dog Friendly Home Decor
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and Planks (LVP)
Scratch-Resistant: The top wear layer of LVT/LVP is designed to withstand scratches from your dog's nails. Waterproof: This is perhaps the biggest selling point. Spills, accidents, and slobber won't seep through and cause damage to the subfloor. Easy to Clean: A quick sweep and a damp mop are all you need to keep your floors looking pristine. Comfort: Vinyl is softer and warmer underfoot than tile, making it more comfortable for both you and your pet to lounge on.
Tile: Ceramic and Porcelain
Extremely Durable: Tile is incredibly hard and resistant to scratches. Waterproof and Stain-Proof: Glazed ceramic and porcelain tile are impervious to water and stains, making cleanup a breeze. Cooling Effect: Tile stays cool to the touch, which can be a welcome relief for a warm, furry friend. A Note on Grout: Opt for a dark-colored or sealed grout to prevent it from becoming stained over time.
Laminate Flooring
Look for High AC Rating: The AC rating (Abrasion Class) indicates durability. For homes with pets, an AC4 or AC5 rating is recommended. Water-Resistant Options: Many modern laminate floors now come with water-resistant or even waterproof properties. Be sure to check the manufacturer's specifications. Potential for Slipperiness: Some laminate finishes can be slippery for dogs. Look for options with a textured or embossed surface to provide more traction.
Hardwood Flooring Considerations
Harder Woods are Better: Opt for harder woods like hickory, oak, or Brazilian cherry, as they are less likely to dent and scratch. Engineered Hardwood: This can be a more stable option than solid hardwood and often comes with a more durable finish. A Distressed or Matte Finish: A distressed, hand-scraped, or matte finish will do a much better job of hiding minor scratches and imperfections than a glossy finish.
Furniture for Furry Friends: Combining Comfort and Durability
Fabric Choices are Key
Leather and Pleather: These are fantastic choices because they are easy to wipe clean and don't attract pet hair. Minor scratches can often be buffed out or add to a distressed patina. Microfiber and Microsuede: These synthetic fabrics are tightly woven, making them resistant to stains and easy to clean. Pet hair can be easily removed with a lint roller or vacuum. Performance Fabrics: Brands like Crypton and Sunbrella offer fabrics that are specifically designed to be stain-resistant, moisture-wicking, and durable. They come in a wide variety of colors and textures. Canvas and Denim: These sturdy cotton fabrics are durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Fabrics to Avoid
Velvet, Silk, and Chenille: These delicate fabrics are magnets for pet hair and are difficult to clean. Tweed: While it can be durable, the textured weave can trap pet hair and be a temptation for dogs who like to chew or scratch.
Furniture with Forgiving Features
Slipcovers: A stylish slipcover can be a lifesaver. When it gets dirty, you can simply remove it and toss it in the washing machine. Exposed Legs: Furniture with exposed legs (as opposed to a skirt that goes to the floor) is less of a fur magnet and makes it easier to clean underneath. Patterns and Medium Tones: A subtle pattern or a medium-toned fabric will do a much better job of camouflaging pet hair and minor stains than a solid, light-colored or dark-colored fabric.
The Beauty of a Pet-Friendly Rug
Material Matters
Wool: Wool is a natural fiber that is surprisingly durable and easy to clean. Its natural oils help to repel stains. Indoor/Outdoor Rugs: Made from synthetic materials like polypropylene, these rugs are designed to be water-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy to clean with a hose. They now come in incredibly stylish designs. Carpet Tiles: If a stubborn stain just won't come out, you can simply replace the affected tile instead of the entire rug.
Color and Pattern are Your Friends
Smart Storage Solutions for a Clutter-Free Home
Stylish Toy Storage
Wicker or Canvas Baskets: Place attractive baskets in the living room or other areas where your dog likes to play. This makes for easy cleanup and keeps their toys contained. Storage Ottomans: A storage ottoman is a multi-functional piece of furniture. It can serve as a footrest, extra seating, and a hidden spot for your dog's toys.
An Organized Entryway
A Designated "Dog Zone": Create a spot near the door with hooks for leashes, a bin for waste bags, and a mat for wiping paws. A "Mudroom" Nook: Even if you don't have a dedicated mudroom, you can create a similar concept with a bench that has storage underneath and some wall-mounted hooks.
Decorating with Your Dog in Mind: Colors, Textures, and Safety
Choosing the Right Paint
Semi-Gloss or Satin Finish: These finishes are much easier to wipe clean than a flat or eggshell finish. They are perfect for walls in high-traffic areas like hallways and entryways. Scrubbable Paints: Many brands now offer "scrubbable" matte paints that give you the look of a flat finish with the durability of a glossier one.
Window Treatments
Avoid Long Drapes: Long, flowing drapes can be a magnet for pet hair and can be a tempting chew toy for a puppy. Opt for Blinds, Shades, or Shutters: These are easier to keep clean and are less likely to be damaged by a curious pup. If you do choose curtains, opt for a shorter length that doesn't puddle on the floor.
Decorating Safely
Secure Cords and Wires: Keep electrical cords out of reach to prevent chewing. Use cord concealers to keep them tidy and hidden. Be Mindful of Breakables: Place fragile decor items on higher shelves or in closed cabinets. A wagging tail can easily knock over a vase or picture frame. Choose Dog-Safe Plants: Many common houseplants are toxic to dogs. Do your research and opt for pet-friendly varieties like the spider plant, Boston fern, or parlor palm.
Creating a Cozy Corner for Your Canine
Stylish Dog Beds
Invest in a Quality Bed: A comfortable, supportive dog bed is essential for your dog's health and well-being. Coordinate with Your Decor: Dog beds now come in a huge variety of styles and fabrics. Choose one that complements the color scheme and style of your room. Removable, Washable Covers: This is a non-negotiable feature for easy cleaning.
Integrated Pet Spaces
Built-in Dog Beds: If you're renovating, consider a built-in dog bed in your kitchen island, under a window seat, or in your laundry room. Stylish Crates: Dog crates don't have to be an eyesore. Many companies now make beautiful wooden crates that double as end tables or console tables.
The Importance of a Clean and Fresh-Smelling Home
A Solid Cleaning Routine
Regular Vacuuming: Invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that is designed for pet hair. Washable Throws and Blankets: Keep washable throw blankets on your furniture to protect it from hair and dirt. Paw Wipes by the Door: Keep a container of pet-safe wipes by the door to clean your dog's paws before they come inside.
Combatting Pet Odors
Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and upholstery, let it sit for a while, and then vacuum it up to neutralize odors. Air Purifiers: An air purifier with a HEPA filter can help to remove pet dander and odors from the air. Pet-Safe Candles and Diffusers: Be sure to choose products that are specifically made to be safe for pets.
