27 Sep 2025 These Are the Best Types of Flooring for Dogs — And the Worst One
By Jessie Quinn
See the full article on Apartment Therapy
When it comes to my 4-year-old pug, Daphne, nothing is off-limits in my home — she’s allowed to sleep in my bed, play and chew bones on my furniture, and rub her face into my rugs when she has an itch. Despite her free rein, I still try to keep my space as clean as possible, and I believe that always starts with addressing the best pet-friendly flooring.
Daphne and I have lived in a few places, including one with mostly tile, another that was predominantly hardwood, and now one with mostly carpet, plus some vinyl planking in the kitchen area. What’s actually considered the best flooring for dogs, though? I spoke with a few experts, who weighed in on a few easy-to-clean floor options for your home that can withstand furry friends — and, spoiler: Carpet is not it.
The Best Flooring for Dogs
Jordan Wells, a flooring and fine carpentry expert and owner of Wells Made, says tile and vinyl plank are the most durable flooring materials for pets. “These products are mostly waterproof and ideal for pet spills and accidents, and have a hard surface to prevent scratches and dents,” he explains. However, he’s also a fan of hardwood flooring because it’s easy to clean, looks high-end, and comes in different finishes that are suitable for dogs. Here’s what you need to know about each.
Tile
Of all the flooring options out there, tile is the best of the best for homes with dogs. According to Wells, it’s ideal for pets with long nails that like to run around corners or play with toys, since this kind of wear and tear won’t impact the longevity of the flooring. The only concern with tile is the grout, so Wells says to avoid stark white or pure black colors because these require much more maintenance. “Most contractors and designers are leaning toward the closest color match to the tile,” he notes.
Since it’s a hard surface, tile’s fairly low-maintenance. For the best cleaning method, Austen Bietenbeck, owner of EcoClean Carpet Care, suggests first using a broom or vacuum with a soft bristle attachment, then cleaning the surface with warm water. “It’s always great if you can find a natural, all-purpose cleaner to top it off and make sure your furry friends are safe,” he adds. If your dog has an accident or is a messy eater, you can also easily wipe down tiled flooring with a paper towel or rag, and then apply a pet-friendly all-purpose floor spray like the Nature’s Miracle Hard Floor Cleaner.