No doubt this has been a crazy year. With a pandemic virtually shutting down life as we know it, many people looked to dogs, of all things, for relief. In fact, dog adoption rates are skyrocketing through the roof. If you think about it, it makes total sense. After all, if you have to be home more often, why not foster a pet? 

Regardless of whether you’re a new pet owner or someone who’s had a fur baby for years, one thing is for certain: pets are part of the family. With that said, there are parts of your home you don’t want them to destroy— like your floors. And while it might sound impossible, even the most gentile four-legged friend can wear flooring down over time. This is why it’s important to protect it as best as you can. 

Enter the area rug. 

When you have a dog, an area rug or two (or three or four) can be a real lifesaver. Not only does a rug provide a place for Fido to curl up at your feet, but it can also provide the right pop of color or personality you want in your home. With that said, not all rugs are pet-friendly, and many just can’t keep up with the wear and tear that comes with having a dog. So, just what should you look for when it comes to finding a rug to make both you and your fur baby happy? Here are 5 tips to get you started.  

1. Consider an Indoor/Outdoor Rug

Indoor/outdoor rugs are incredibly fashionable these days, making them more than suitable for the inside of your home. You can find so many styles of indoor/outdoor rugs it’d be hard NOT to find one that complements the interior of your home.

In addition to looking great, these rugs are durable, soft on the feet, and easy to clean— all of which are incredibly important when you have a pet. No wonder they are a popular choice among pet owners. The fact that they aren’t as expensive as other area rugs make them popular for people who don’t have pets as well.

2. Stick with Small Patterns

Patterned rugs are a great choice whether you have pets or not. With that said, if you do have pets, then your best bet is to stick with rugs that have small patterns. Big patterns with large exposed areas of solid colors are beautiful, but they aren’t very good at disguising dirt and other stains our beloved critters bring. Additional tip: opt for patterns in darker colors, as light colors show everything.

3. Keep it Low

Low pile, we mean, of course. A low pile rug will sustain less damage than a higher pile one. Animals–especially cats–like to dig, and you can expect them to do just that if you purchase a fluffy rug. Low-pile rugs can be just as soft as high-pile ones, so don’t think you can’t find something comfortable. Shop around and you’ll be sure to find something that suits your taste.

4. Be Mindful of Material

There are several fibers to choose from when it comes to rugs, but there are a few that stand out as being the best option for your pets. The first is seagrass. Not only do they look great, but they are also water-resistant. Additionally, they aren’t overly expensive, so it wouldn’t be too bad to replace it if needed. The second is wool. Wool area rugs are durable, easy to clean, and come in a variety of colors and patterns. With that said, they are definitely a big investment— but, one worth making. The third option is nylon. A 100% nylon rug is a wonderful option. While they can cost more than a wool rug, they can easily be freshened up with a good steam clean. If you’re looking for something a little softer, yet durable, consider sheepskin. While it can attract more pet fur and hair, it’s incredibly cozy and easy to clean with a simple vacuuming. 

5. Pay Attention to Size 

When it comes to pets, smaller-sized rugs are usually a better option. However, whether or not you can actually use a smaller rug is entirely dependent on the room. Even if you have a larger region to cover, it’s a good idea to consider opting for two rugs rather than one big piece. Not only is it easier to find a replacement for a smaller rug, but it’s also much easier to haul to the cleaners if need be. Many smaller rugs are also hand-washable, making it an even more affordable option. 

Comfort for Your Pet, Peace of Mind for You

Having a pet-friendly rug around will certainly make your home more comfortable for your furry friend(s). When the time comes to add some style and protection to your floors, let us help. Be sure to check out our selection of online selection of area rugs or stop by one of our showrooms to see what we have to offer you and your pet.