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What to Look for in a Rug That Will Survive Your Dog

taking care of your rug when you have a dog pet-friendly rugs

From adding a splash of color to protecting our floors, rugs are a great way to bring a room together. Unfortunately, they also can also be a magnet for dog hair, dander, muddy paw prints and smelly saliva — meaning your four-legged friend can wreak havoc on your rug.

For those wanting their aesthetics and furry friends to live harmoniously together, you need to make sure your rug not only caters to your style but is also able to withstand a ton of paw traffic, shedding fur, the occasional potty accident, and is crafted from pet-friendly materials.

Here is exactly what to look for when you’re on the hunt for a rug that can withstand your dog.

Material and Pile Considerations for a Dog-Friendly Rug

When you’re shopping for a new rug, you’d probably only consider ones made from durable materials that boast gorgeous colors or patterns. However, when you’re searching for a dog-friendly rug, there are other factors to consider, such as the rug’s pile and if it’s made from pet-safe materials.

A pile is the density and length of the rug’s fabric. While a high pile is cushy against your bare feet and may also offer a pleasant place for your pooch to nap, it could also spell trouble for your pup.

A rug with a high pile can hold a lot of dead hair and dander, which may cause skin irritation. Dogs may also be tempted to chew on the plushy rug. So, for many, a low-pile rug is a better option.

Related: The Best Vacuums for Dealing With Shedders and Tons of Dog Hair

You should also ensure the rug is made from non-toxic, pet-friendly materials.

Some rug materials that are dog-safe include:

  • Cotton: These lightweight rugs are easy to machine wash. They can also be seamlessly spot cleaned.
  • Jute: A super durable natural fiber, jute can withstand tons of foot traffic, both from people and pets. Easy to vacuum, jute comes in an earthy hue, which can hide dirt when you’re not feeling up to the task of cleaning. However, jute is highly absorbent, and can easily trap urine stains, making it hard to clean. Bamboo and hemp are other natural fiber options.
  • Polypropylene: A synthetic fiber, polypropylene carpets are pet-safe. They are also extremely durable, water repellant, and stain resistant.
  • Wool: Another natural fiber, wool is a great rug option. It is easy to clean with a vacuum, though, if your dog has an accident, it can absorb into the material and be hard to remove. Also, wool rugs tend to be expensive.
  • Acrylic: Also a synthetic material, acrylic can resemble the look and feel of wool, but less expensive, making it a good option for those on a budget. It isn’t as pet-friendly as other options, so if your dog has an accident, it’s important to clean up right away.

Patterns and Colors for a Dog-Friendly Rug

While you may want to purchase the first gorgeous rug that catches your eye, you need to consider color and pattern designs that can camouflage pet hair, dirt, and dander. This way, you won’t have to continuously vacuum and sweep your floors.

A rug with a multicolor design adds instant visual appeal to your space. It also can distract the eye from pet hair and paw prints. You can also opt for a rug that is the same color as your dog’s fur to hide loose hair. Earth-toned rug colors are also a good option.

Keeping Your Dog-Friendly Rug Clean

Besides looking for rugs that are made from spill-proof, stain-proof, and water-resistant materials, make sure you have cleaning supplies on hand to care for your rug.

Some of the best go-to vacuums for dogs include Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus Vacuum Cleaner and Dyson V11 Animal Cordless Vacuum Cleaner.

In terms of cleaning products, look for ones that are safe for your dogs. Skout’s Honor Professional Strength Stain and Odor Remover , Rocco & Roxie Supply Professional Strength Stain Remover for Dogs and Cat Urine and Spot Carpet Cleaner, Angry Orange Citrus Pet Urine Remover and Carpet Deodorizer for Dogs, Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain and Odor Eliminator Dog for Severe Dog Messes.

Related: Spring Cleaning: 9 Non-Toxic Dog Stain and Odor Cleaners That Get the Job Done

What to Avoid When Buying a Dog-Friendly Rug

Here are some items to be wary of while you’re shopping for a pet-friendly rug:

  • Don’t buy a looped or hooked rug: The strands can easily get loose and snag under sharp dog claws.
  • Not investing in a non-slip mat: If you have wood or tile floors, look for a rug with nonslip features to keep it in place. Not only will this save you from the hassle of constantly fixing the rug, but it will also keep your pooch safe while he’s romping about.
  • Shag-type rugs: These are very high pile and can be a total nightmare to clean after an indoor potty incident.
  • Delicate fibers: While viscose- and silk-blend rugs are satiny and sleek, they are prone to staining and need to be cleaned by a professional.

Your furry friend and style can cohabitate in peace. When you’re looking for a pet-friendly rug, opt for one with low pile, a multi-color pattern, and made from pet-safe materials. Also consider getting a stain-proof or water-resistant rug with a nonslip feature.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Washing Dog Sweaters, Collars, and Bedding

By Stephanie Weaver

Stephanie Weaver is a freelance writer residing in Philadelphia, PA. When she's not locked down to her laptop, she can be found riding horses or playing with her Boston Terrier mix, Steve.

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