What Are The Best Flooring Options For Your Pets?
Our pets are part of the family—but they can also be tough on floors. From muddy paw prints to the occasional accident, choosing the best flooring for pets means finding a balance between durability, comfort, and style. Whether you have an energetic dog or a curious cat, the right flooring can make cleanup easier and your home more beautiful for years to come.
At Flooring Liquidators, we’ve helped countless pet owners across Canada find stylish, long-lasting floors that stand up to daily life. Here’s what you need to know before making your choice.
What Makes Flooring Pet-Friendly?
When shopping for flooring with pets in mind, look for these key features:
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Scratch Resistance: Pets’ nails can quickly wear down softer surfaces.
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Water Resistance: Accidents and spills happen—especially near water bowls.
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Traction: Floors that are too slippery can make pets uncomfortable or cause injuries.
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Easy Maintenance: Choose a surface that’s easy to sweep, mop, or vacuum.
Now, let’s explore the best materials for pet owners.
1. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Durable and Worry-Free
Luxury vinyl plank is widely considered the top choice for pet-friendly homes. It’s waterproof, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean—ideal for households with dogs and cats alike. Vinyl also offers natural warmth and quiet underfoot, which pets love.
With realistic wood and stone looks, LVP delivers high-end style without the maintenance hassle. It’s also affordable and comfortable, making it perfect for busy homes.
2. Tile: Timeless and Virtually Indestructible
Tile flooring is another excellent option if you’re looking for resilience. Ceramic or porcelain tiles resist scratches and moisture, making them great for high-traffic areas like kitchens and mudrooms.
The only drawback? Tile can be hard and cold. Area rugs or pet mats can help make it cozier for your furry friends.
3. Laminate: Stylish and Scratch-Resistant
Laminate flooring mimics the look of hardwood at a fraction of the cost—and modern options are impressively pet-tough. Many laminate products come with protective coatings that resist scratches and wear.
While laminate isn’t fully waterproof, it’s easy to clean and maintain if spills are wiped up quickly. It’s best suited for dry areas like living rooms and hallways.
4. Engineered Hardwood: Classic Look, Enhanced Durability
If you love the beauty of real wood but need added strength, engineered hardwood offers the best of both worlds. Its layered construction makes it more resistant to warping from moisture or temperature changes.
Opt for a matte finish or textured grain to help hide minor scratches and paw marks.
What to Avoid
Soft woods like pine and carpeted floors aren’t the best for pets. They can trap fur, absorb odors, and show stains more easily. If you love the feel of carpet, consider using washable area rugs instead.
Keep Your Floors Looking Their Best
No matter what material you choose, proper maintenance is key. Keep your pets’ nails trimmed, wipe up spills promptly, and use rugs in high-traffic areas to extend your floor’s lifespan. For more pet-friendly ideas, check out our guide on pet-friendly flooring solutions or explore additional insights from Lowe’s pet-friendly flooring tips.
Find Pet-Friendly Flooring at Flooring Liquidators
At Flooring Liquidators, we offer Canada’s best selection of durable, stylish, and pet-friendly flooring options. With 16 showrooms across Ontario and shipping available nationwide, finding the right floor for your furry family members has never been easier.
Ready to start your flooring project? Visit your nearest showroom or contact us today through our Flooring Liquidators contact page for expert guidance and a free quote.

