The Best Hardwood Floor for Dogs

The good news for hardwood floor and canine lovers alike is that the two are not mutually exclusive. In fact, the American Hardwood Information Center suggests that pets may prefer lounging on material with insulating properties, like wood, above other flooring choices. Added benefits include the elimination of trapped pet dander and other allergens in your floor surface. The key to hardwood flooring and dogs is the maintenance and regular upkeep of the hardwood you choose.

  1. Choosing Wisely

    • The two hardest American woods used most often for flooring are oak and maple. When asked if these woods could stand up to a busy household of kids and pets, Susan Regan of the Hardwood Information Center suggested that if maple can take the beating of professional basketball player's hooves and oak rail ties can handle freight trains, these durable woods can survive whatever your family can dish out, dogs included.

    Treat It Right

    • Finishes on a hardwood floor of any kind are going to be your key to durability with dogs in the house. The Hardwood Information Center suggests applying an oil-based urethane finish in a satin sheen. Three coats is the magic number, remembering that the goal is for the finish to take the beating as your furry friends roam the halls, not the hardwood itself. This finish should be maintained by regular cleaning and can be lightly sanded and single-coated to restore luster lost by scratching paws.

    Keep It Up

    • Dogs are active animals that will constantly be shedding, growing nails and, in a puppy's case, having little accidents. The National Wood Flooring Association reminds pet owners that regular clipping of dogs' nails will decrease the likelihood of scratches and dents in your floor. Also, by regularly sweeping and vacuuming of your floors, you will keep the hair from lodging in the cracks or attracting dirt to the finish. Throw rugs are also suggested as a convenient and easily laundered solution to entryways where dogs will bring outdoor messes in. When an accident does happen, puppy or otherwise, mop the liquid up right away to avoid any finish damage. To this end, crate training is a possible preventive measure to keep puppy messes off of your finished hardwood. Giving a puppy a den-like crate for potty training will ease your mind, and theirs, in the middle of the night.