Rugs are a great way to soften up the hardwood or tiled floor in your home, but dogs (and their feline counterparts) can quickly wreak havoc rug, carpets, and anything else that’s ground level.
And while there are no perfect rugs for pet-loving homes, some options are definitely better than others.
We’ll discuss a few of the best rugs available, some of the features that make them great choices and talk about general rug and carpet care for homes with a resident four-footer below.
But, if you just want some product recommendations, check out our quick picks below!
Best Rugs for Dog Owners: Quick Picks
- #1 Unique Loom Baracoa Collection Area Rug [Best All Around Choice]: A durable rug with a moderate pile length and complex pattern to help hide dog hair, this is a great choice for many dog owners.
- #2 Unique Loom Del Mar Collection Contemporary Transitional Blue Area Rug [Most Luxurious Option]: Boasting the longest pile length of any rug we recommend below, this is the ideal choice for pups and owners who want a soft and cozy area rug.
- #3 Unique Loom Sophia Collection Traditional Vintage Gray Area Rug [Best for Hiding Pet Hair]: Thanks to its combination of a complex pattern and a moderate pile length, this rug is one of the best options for hiding shed dog hair.
Dogs and Rugs: A Perilous Pairing
Dogs put rugs and carpets through some pretty full-contact abuse. Some of the main ways dogs inflict harm on fiber-based flooring include:
- Dogs can track mud, dirt, grease and anything else through which they may collect on their paws all over your beautiful rug.
- They can chew or tug at the threads, leading to an unraveled mess (and a serious health hazard, should your dog decide to swallow the threads).
- Their shed fur will tend to collect on the rug, which will compromise its aesthetic appeal.
- Dogs may pee or poop on the rug, which can lead to lingering odors and unsightly spots.
- Dogs may vomit or cough up bile on the fabric, which can lead to discoloration and more odors.
- Rugs can serve as egg-deposition sites for fleas.
But do not fear! Several rugs that are designed to limit the severity of these problems, and there are a few things you can do to help
Things to Consider When Selecting Rugs for Homes with Dogs
You won’t find many rugs that are marketed as “pet proof,” but you can find rugs that feature the characteristics that will make them last longer and remain looking better, if you have a pooch at home.
Material
Different rugs are made of different fabrics, and some stand up better to pet-precipitated abuse than others do. Wool and Nylon are among the most resilient and durable options, although polyester is also a good choice.
Wool is, however, much more expensive than polyester or nylon in many cases. Olefin is a marginally acceptable material for rug construction, but those made from rayon and silk are best avoided.
Color
Dark colors are obviously preferable in many ways, as they won’t show dirt as obviously as light-colored rugs will.
However, you must also consider your dog’s color.
Even if he isn’t a heavy shedder, he’ll still contribute his own fibers to those of the rug. Put a dark rug in a home with a light-colored pup, and you’ll spend all your time vacuuming up his hair.
Pattern
Like color, the pattern of any rug you buy can make a big difference in the way it shows dog hair. Plain, single-color rugs will let you see each and every hair against the solid background; complex, busily patterned rugs will help de-emphasize your dog’s shed fur.
Avoid Rugs with Tassels or Fringe
Even dogs that aren’t problem chewers seem magnetically attracted to the fringe or other loose threads attached to the edges of rugs, blankets, curtains and other fabrics.
These can represent a safety hazard and lead to intestinal blockage if they’re swallowed; just skip them and avoid the issue entirely.
Pile
Pile – a word that refers to the threads making up the rug – is always an important consideration when selecting a rug.
Some rugs feature looped pile, but while this can feel marvelous on your feet, it can also catch your pet’s claws. Accordingly, it is wiser to opt for cut pile rugs.
Avoid Rugs with Glued-On Backs
Glue-backed or tufted rugs feature a bottom material of some type, that has been glued to the rug. Urine can soak through this glue, effectively ruining the rug permanently and creating a permanent odor.
Look for Outdoor Rugs
Outdoor rugs may not be made with the same level of finesse that indoor rugs are, but if you are interested in getting the most durable rug possible, outdoor models are often the best bet. Outdoor rugs are not only designed to hold up to the weather, they’re built to hold up to more vigorous cleaning tactics.
Size
To a large extent, the size of your rug will depend on the constraints of your home and budget. But, it is wise to consider opting for smaller rugs whenever possible. Not only are these rugs easier to roll up and take to the cleaners if need be, they are cheaper to replace, should that become necessary.
Accident-Prone Breeds
Unfortunately, some breeds are notoriously difficult to housebreak. This makes them less-than-perfect candidates for living in a home with expensive rugs.
If you’ve got one of the following breeds, be sure to consider your decision to acquire a rug carefully (conversely, if you are still looking to add a pup to your life and you love rugs or plush carpets, you may want to avoid these breeds).
- Bichon Frise
- Pug
- Dalmatian
- Dachshund
- Chihuahua
- Pomeranian
- Maltese
- Cocker Spaniel
- Yorkshire Terrier
Rug-Cleaning and General Carpet-Care Tips For Homes With Dogs
Always follow the manufacturer’s suggestions when trying to clean a rug or remove a stain. However, there are a few basic tips that will usually be helpful. For example:
- Some rugs – particularly those with a very short pile – are easy to de-fur with a lint roller, so keep one on hand for regular use. If you don’t have a lint roller, you can make a make-shift version by wrapping a few loops of duct tape around your hand, with the sticky side facing out.
- Brush your dog regularly to remove some of the shed hair before he can deposit it on the rug. Do this outside so you can get rid of some of the hair before your pup even comes inside.
- Purchase a high-quality vacuum designed for homes with pets. A good vacuum designed for pet hair that will suck up the dog fur stuck to your rug will help keep it looking its best (it’s also a good idea to keep the amount of hair in your home low if any members of your family struggle with allergies).
- Have a good spot-cleaner on hand. Even dogs that are very well housebroken occasionally have accidents or barf something up on the rug. A good pet carpet cleaner can be all the difference between saving the rug and tossing it in the dumpster.
- If your little pup has an accident, try to blot as much of the liquid as possible as quickly as possible (hand towels are generally more effective than paper towels). Then, apply a little baking soda and vinegar or some hydrogen peroxide or a commercially made pet-stain remover to the affected area, let it sit for a while, and then blot up the cleaning solution. Just be sure to spot test a small, inconspicuous spot with either choice before saturating a large area.
5 Best Rugs for Homes with Dogs
While there aren’t any rugs designed explicitly for use by pet owners (at least, none that we’ve been able to find – please let us know if you aware of any in the comments), there are a number of options that possess the traits you’d like to see in a good rug.
The following rugs are among the best available.
1. Unique Loom Baracoa Collection Area Rug
About: The tough but ornate Unique Loom Vintage Traditional Light Blue Area Rug adds a splash of color to any home design. This attractive area rug comes in a variety of colors and styles, but all of them are made from durable material to stand up to dog paws and claws!
Product
Details
- Pile: Polypropylene - Backing: Cotton - Weave: Machine Woven (Power Loomed) - Made In:...
- Size in FT: 5' 5 x 8' 0 - Size in CM: 165x245 - Pile Height & Thickness: 1/3" - Colors: Light Blue,...
- Easy-to-clean and does not shed - underlay (rug pad) recommended to prevent slipping and sliding
- Easy to clean, just follow these instructions: As long as it's a short-pile, indoor rug, we...
Features:
- This area rug is inspired by Cuban designs with light blue, turquoise, pink, ivory, and yellow.
- It’s restraint to water, mold, and stains, and it will not shed.
- It’s made from 100% polypropylene, a durable material, with a 1/3-inch pile.
- Maintenance is pretty simple and can be achieved with regular vacuuming. Pet messes can be taken care of with spot cleaning.
Sizes: This rug comes in three different shapes – round, runner, and rectangle. It also comes in a wide variety of sizes, from a 2-foot by 3-foot rectangle to a 10-foot by 13-foot rectangle.
PROS
Customers rave that this rug is super soft to the touch, despite its shorter pile – it’s a perfect place for a pooch to nap! Despite its softness, it’s incredibly durable against pet stains and heavy foot traffic. It holds up well to constant cleaning, and spots can be easily removed without causing damage to the appearance
CONS
Some consumers report that the rug is rather stiff, and it takes some work to get the corners to lie flat on the floor. This could pose a problem for pet owners, especially for chewing puppies or pint-sized pooches who like to crawl under things.
2. Unique Loom Sophia Collection Traditional Vintage Gray Area Rug
About: For a beautifully designed rug that hides the natural accumulation of pet hair, check out the Unique Loom Traditional Vintage Gray Area Rug. With a variety of colors and sizes to suit any design (or pet fur color), this rug is a beautiful and durable option for any pet-friendly home.
Product
Details
- Soft 0.25" (1/4") pile height. Made of 100% polypropylene and power loomed in Turkey. 100% jute...
- French-inspired vintage traditional designs from Unique Loom's Sofia Collection enhance any room of...
- Available in all shapes, sizes, and colors, you'll find the right rug for you. A round or square rug...
- In case of creases - roll the rug in the opposite direction, while applying pressure to the rug -...
Features:
- The French-inspired design comes in a variety colors, including dark tones like gray, black, burgundy, and light brown. Those earth-toned hues are great at masking pet hair.
- It’s comprised of super durable polypropylene, and it’s made with a cotton backing.
- It is resistant to stains, water, and mold, and it won’t shed, either.
Sizes: These rugs come in a variety of different sizes and shapes, from 2-foot by 6-foot runners to 8-foot by 11-foot rectangles. They also come in squares and rounds of varying sizes.
PROS
Customers love this rug because of its subtle yet beautiful design. Above all else though, it’s a hit because it’s quite resistant to doggy messes. Pet owners report that this rug cleans up great, regardless of what their dogs throw at it. Additionally, the design is a bit rugged and nontraditional, so it makes stains difficult to differentiate between patterns – a perfect feature in a rug for a dog’s house.
CONS
A chief complaint among purchasers is that this rug is razor thin – with the .25-inch pile, cleaning is quite easy, but other factors tend to suffer. Owners report that this rug tends to slide a lot, which is a major concern for dog owners – pups trying to gain traction on this rug may find it difficult and be at risk for slipping.
3. Safavieh Madison Collection Bohemian Chic Distressed Area Rug
About: For a classically designed but resilient area rug, the Safavieh Madison Collection Distressed Area Rug is a high-quality option to consider. It oozes with style and best of all, it’s quite resistant to any messes from your pooch.
Product
Details
- [STAIN RESISTANT & NON-SHEDDING]: Expertly machine-woven from enhanced synthetic durable fibers that...
- [KID AND PET-FRIENDLY]: Safe for everyday indoor high foot traffic and areas more prone to life’s...
- [TRENDY STYLE]: Boho chic floral medallion trellis design beautifully enhances any room of the home,...
- [EASY MAINTENANCE & DURABLE]: Stress-free cleaning includes regular vacuuming and gently blotting...
Features:
- The distressed look, matched with the cream/multi-color design, is a great combatant to potential pooch damage, adding a bit of rustic style to your home in the process.
- It has a 0.375 inch pile, which is right in the middle of the options on our list.
- It’s made from polypropylene, polyester, jute, and cotton.
Sizes: This rug comes in 24 different sizes, from 9-foot by 12-foot to fill your whole room, to a 4-foot round rug to accent your coffee table.
PROS
Customers report that this rug balances its thicker pile with the convenience of easy cleaning. Customers rave that it’s extremely resistant to doggy messes and repeated cleanings won’t leave any lingering marks. Reviews also note that untrimmed pup nails won’t cause any snags or damage either.
CONS
A major red flag with this rug is that the manufacturer recommends a rug pad, meaning that, like similar options, it’s highly likely that slipping will be a major concern — something a few owners confirmed. Additionally, in comparison with other rugs on our list, this one is a bit on the pricey side.
4. Curry Chevron Dark Gray/Beige Area Rug
About: If you’re in the market for a classy modern look, the Currey Chevron Area Rug is a sleek option that can stand up to your pet. Made with durability in mind, this rug offers a great means of updating your home’s design while puppy-proofing your home.
Features:
- This rug is made from highly durable materials such as polypropylene, latex, and poly-cotton.
- It has a thicker pile at .4-inch.
- It’s made in Turkey, and it comes in a variety of colors, including navy, beige, and light grey – the designs all center around the modern chevron pattern.
Sizes: This rug comes in wide a variety of sizes, starting at rectangles measuring 3-foot by 5-foot. Shape options range from runners and squares to large rounds.
PROS
This rug is manufactured in a similar way to an outdoor area rug, so it’s made to stand up to high traffic and pet messes. Customers note that despite its durability, it’s still quite soft to the touch.
CONS
The designs, however attractive, do include a lot of white coloring — regardless of how durable a rug is, staining from pets is always a huge risk with a white rug.
5. Unique Loom Del Mar Collection Contemporary Transitional Blue Area Rug
About: Beautiful to the eye and soft to the touch is the Unique Loom Contemporary Transitional Blue Area Rug. Striking a balance between comfort, design, and durability, this well-received rug is a great option for dog owners.
Product
Details
- Pile: Polypropylene - Backing: Cotton - Weave: Machine Made (Power-Loomed) - Made in: Turkey.Product...
- Size in FT: 5' 0 x 8' 0 - Size in CM: 155x245 - Pile Height & Thickness: 1/2" - Colors: Blue, Navy...
- Easy-to-clean, stain resistant, and does not shed - underlay (rug pad) recommended to prevent...
- Easy to clean, just follow these instructions: As long as it's a short-pile, indoor rug, we...
Features:
- This rug is made of super strong polypropylene.
- It has the highest pile on our list at 0.5-inch, meaning it’s luxuriously soft.
- It is resistant to water, stains and other contaminants, and shedding won’t be an issue.
- The design comes in multiple colors, but all are gradients of monochromatic colors.
Sizes: This rug ranges in rectangular sizes from 2-foot by 3-foot to 8-foot by 10-foot.
PROS
This beautiful rug feels great to both people and pups – the higher pile makes it extra soft, so pooches will love basking on its surface. Customers also report that it rolls out nicely, and unlike other rugs, it lays flat without too many wrinkles or curling corners.
CONS
A bit higher pile means your rug will be at a higher risk for snagging from long pup nails. It also means that the odds of trapping pup fur and dander are much higher. A higher pile means it’s made up of longer fibers, so there’s higher opportunity for microscopic contaminants to be left behind, even after vacuuming.
***
As you can see, there are a number of great rugs on the market that may work in your pet-populated home. Most owners will likely find a winning product among the five detailed above.
Have you found a great area rug that stands up to your pet’s abuse? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below.
7 Comments
August 12, 2020
Rugs that comforts our pets. that also protect us from any harm. organic and non toxic rugs are what we need if we have pets at home.
October 12, 2019
I recently purchased a rug at Ruggable.com. They make machine washable area rugs and runners specifically for pet owners (up to size 8X10). Each stain resistant rug comes with a separate mat that sticks to the rug and absorbs spills and accidents protecting your floor. The patterns/colors are quite versatile and pretty. I’m very happy with it. Wish I had discovered Ruggable rugs when my dogs were puppies. It’s been a game changer with 2 dogs in my home. Although it’s a very thin rug, it’s surprisingly sturdy and is holding up well after washings. I just purchased another one (6X9).
May 15, 2019
Great tips & easy to follow. Thank you!!!
May 8, 2019
So many important key points compiled in this fantastic article… Also when there are pets in the home we have to pick the best rug which is not that deep pile so that the pet hair can’t get deep inside. That’s also a key point.
Got this from your fantastic article.
May 8, 2019
So many important key points compiled in this fantastic article… Also when there are pets in the home we have to pick the best rug which is not that deep pile so that the pet hair can’t get deep inside. That’s also a key point.
Got this from your fantastic article.
January 18, 2019
I love buying rugs. This makes our home looks better. Indeed choosing a rug for a dog is quite difficult. I am having a handmade rug in my home. But for my pet, I think I gotta change it. Thanks for this post!
December 19, 2018
I find this post very thoughtful for pet owners who need to buy an area rug. Keeping your area rugs clean is one of the biggest challenges when it comes to living with pets.