The best and worst flooring for dogs

Man’s best friend deserves the best flooring so here’s our look at the best and the worst on the market.

We have previously discussed the difference between pet-proof and pet-friendly flooring and in this article, we look at the difference between the best and worst flooring for dogs, and the best and worst flooring for dog owners, as well as looking at the different needs of individual dogs at the various stages of their lives.

When we hear flooring companies talk about the best flooring for dogs, they often mean that the flooring will be easy to clean and maintain, or that it will be tough and hardwearing. But is that the best flooring for dogs, or for dog owners and is there a solution to keep everyone happy? Let’s look at each common flooring type in turn.

Laminate and solid wood flooring

For older incontinent dogs and puppies still being trained, both laminate and wood floors are not the best flooring for dogs that pee or for their owners! Excessive liquid will be soaked up by each, causing discolouration in wooden floors and buckling in laminate floors. When we consider canine mobility too, both of these floor types can present problems for our four legged friend. Young dogs who are developing muscle and strength in their legs will slip and slide which can cause injury, while older, perhaps arthritic dogs could fall causing serious joint damage. While relatively easy to keep clean for owners, neither of these floors and particularly comfortable for dogs of any age to lie down on.

Ceramic tiles

Arguably a great flooring for pet owners, ceramic tiles offer a gorgeous aesthetic, are almost completely waterproof and are easy to clean and maintain. But they are far too cold for our furry friends, extremely hard and uncomfortable, and they pose a major slip threat.

Carpet

The opposite to ceramic tiles, carpet is warm and comfortable for dogs but represents a nightmare for pet owners! A sponge for any liquids, carpet will retain odours and the pile will wear quickly where pets are lying down on it.

So is there a flooring that offers everything our dogs need, while ticking all our boxes too?

The Pawsafe Domestic range from Floor for Paws

The Pawsafe Domestic range is vinyl flooring available in a choice of plank sizes. Offering the aesthetic demanded by pet owners, it is easy to clean, waterproof, strong, durable and scratch resistant. And for our pets, the range has been endorsed by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management). Designed with the comfort of our dogs in mind, this is non-slip flooring with an extra soft layer of protection for pets, and it has a textured surface to enable animals to move on it safely.

But don’t take our word for it, why not try before you buy? Order up to three free samples to see for yourself, or more for an extra charge. Then if you have any questions, simply get in touch with our experienced sales team by telephone on 01937 830948 or email at info@floorsforpaws.com to discuss how we can help you.

A complete guide to the best waterproof flooring for pets

We look at flooring options for pet owners and examine the best waterproof flooring on the market.

When you’re a pet owner, whether you have a puppy still toilet training or an older dog with age related incontinence, liquid accidents are an inevitable part of life. Add in to the mix muddy post-walk paws or bath time and it’s easy to see why waterproof flooring for pets is essential.

Before we look at the options available to pet owners, let’s examine the different factors to consider before choosing your flooring.

Waterproof Vs. water resistant

People use these phrases interchangeably but they are in fact two different things. Water-resistant flooring will resist certain small spillages but waterproof flooring is designed to withstand spillages and bigger events such as full spilt dog bowls and lakes of dog wee!

Where the flooring will be installed

The setting for your flooring will impact your choice. For example the best living room flooring for dogs may not be the best flooring for a dog grooming salon or a veterinarian surgery. Consider whether your flooring will be subject to constant mopping in a commercial environment (think doggy daycare or pet-friendly cafes) or lighter daily maintenance in your kitchen.

Now you’ve considered what you need and where it will be, let’s look at your flooring options.

Ceramic or porcelain tiles

While ceramic and porcelain tiles are recognised for being almost impenetrable to liquids, they are one of the least pet friendly flooring options. Cold and hard and extremely slippery underfoot, this type of flooring can make old and young dogs feel unstable and affect their confidence. To find out more about the risks to dogs of slippery flooring see our article Non-slip flooring for dogs.

Laminate flooring

Laminate flooring is constructed from softwood fibres so while it will withstand light spillages, making it water resistant, it will not tolerate anything more without running the risk of buckling and becoming damaged. While it is easy to clean, laminate is not waterproof and can be prone to moisture entering the joints between the boards.

Solid wood flooring

While they offer a traditional aesthetic for your home, solid wood floors soak up liquid causing them to stain quite easily. A lighter wood could therefore end up with dark patches if you have a dog that has frequent accidents.

Carpet

Undoubtedly warm and comfortable for our canine friends, in terms of its ability to withstand liquids and moisture, carpet is a poor choice if you’re looking for a waterproof floor covering for pets. Carpet is porous, turning it into a sponge for any liquid spillages and the fibres will retain smells which will not go unnoticed by visitors for long!

Vinyl flooring

Vinyl flooring, including luxury vinyl tiles, vinyl plank flooring and vinyl on the roll, is completely waterproof. It is offered in a range of finishes to suit every taste and setting and is resilient and hardwearing. Finally, with the exception of carpet, vinyl flooring is the kindest option for pets as it is more comfortable underfoot than tiles, laminate or solid wood.

Vinyl flooring from Floor For Paws

At Floors For Paws we offer a choice of waterproof vinyl flooring for every home and commercial premises.

Luxury Vinyl Range

Our Luxury Vinyl Range is available as luxury vinyl planks which offer the look of a wooden floor, or as luxury vinyl tiles that mimic stone tiles. Hardwearing and durable, LVP (luxury vinyl plank) is ideal for anyone looking for a stylish flooring option. To see the options available , or to order your 3 free samples, click here.

Pawsafe Domestic Range

Endorsed and approved by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management), our Pawsafe Domestic Range is available in a choice of plank sizes to offer more design options and a popular design is the herringbone pattern which can be installed in a variety of ways to mimic a traditional solid wood floor. This is an ideal flooring for domestic settings and commercial premises thanks to its strength and durability, and comes with a 10-year commercial guarantee. Your three free samples can be chosen here.

Pawsafe Commercial range

Sold as commercial sheet vinyl on the roll, the Pawsafe Commercial Range is perfect for businesses as it can be laid with no, or very few, joins creating a waterproof surface that is impenetrable to liquids. Endorsed and approved by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management), the Pawsafe Commercial Range is recommended for commercial environments that welcome a lot of four legged paw traffic, such as veterinarian clinics, day care centres and pet-friendly cafes and restaurants. Use our sample picker to choose up to three free samples and see our Guide to sheet vinyl flooring.

If you would like to discuss any aspect of our waterproof flooring for dogs, send us an email to info@floosforpaws.com or call us on 01937 830948.

Canine arthritis – everything you need to know

Just as humans develop arthritis with age, so do our four legged friends. Our latest guide tells you what to look out for, and how to help a dog with arthritis to have the best life in his later years.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a medical condition that affects joints. It occurs over time as the cartilage between the joints becomes thinner and damaged. This results in bones rubbing together leading to stiffness, swelling and pain.

What causes arthritis in dogs?

Although one of the main causes of canine arthritis is simply old age, there are other reasons a dog may develop the condition.

  • Injury can be sustained at any age and where a dog suffers torn ligaments or has a wound that becomes infected, damage can occur within the joints causing inflammation and arthritis.
  • Being overweight can also trigger arthritis as excess weight places stress on the joints to carry the extra load which increases the natural wear and tear on the joints.
  • Some breeds of dog may be more prone to arthritis than others where they are predisposed to bone conditions such as hip dysplasia. Breeds include Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Springer Spaniels and German Shepherds. For these breeds, there are screening schemes available.

Signs of arthritis in dogs

There are several signs to look out for if you think your dog may be suffering with arthritis, both physical and behavioural.

Physical signs of arthritis in dogs

  • Stiffness
  • Limping
  • Becoming slower or reluctant on walks
  • Difficulty getting up after sitting or lying down
  • Finding stairs more difficult

Behavioural signs of arthritis in dogs

  • Licking painful joints (look for stained fur around joint areas)
  • Irritability – arthritic dogs may dislike being touched which can lead to them being grumpy
  • Being less playful
  • Preferring to be by themselves

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, a trip to the vet is needed for a correct diagnosis and treatment. However, there are steps you can take to help make life easier for your dog.

How to ease arthritis in dogs

  • A firm, new bed that will support painful joints will help, and consider positioning several around the home to give your dog plenty of choice as well as the opportunity to rest wherever they are.
  • Elevating food and water bowls will stop your dog lowering their head which pulls on joints and there are lots of suitable stands available.
  • Take shorter walks – three or four shorter walks a day will be kinder on painful joints than two long walks – and think about the ground you are walking on. Concrete and tarmac might be too hard and your dog will prefer softer grassy paths.
  • Avoid muddy ground too as this may lead to dogs slipping, and try to pick flat, level routes.
  • Ensuring your flooring at home is not slippery is very important too; sliding and slipping is not good for arthritic joints, so ensure nails are kept trimmed.

Non-slip flooring for dogs

Carpet is undoubtedly soft and warm but it isn’t practical, particularly for younger pups and older dogs who are prone to accidents. The alternatives of wood, ceramic or laminate flooring may be more durable for humans but is far too slippery and dogs falling on it are in for a hard landing. At Floors for Paws, our Pawsafe Domestic range offers the best of both worlds! Easy to clean, water- and scratch-resistant, the range has been endorsed by CAM, Canine Arthritis Management. Its unique comfort backing gives cushioning for painful joints, and dogs will find it comfortable to lie on as it is not cold to the touch.

Offering a wide choice of contemporary and classic designs, the Pawsafe Domestic range is suitable for all styles of home and if you can’t decide, why not order three free samples. Our experience and friendly team is available to help answer any questions and can be contacted by phone on 01937 830948 or email at info@floorsforpaws.com

Dog friendly flooring

Are you a pet owner in the UK struggling to find the perfect flooring that can withstand the wear and tear of your furry friends? Look no further; Floors for Paws is here to provide you with the ultimate solution for pet-friendly flooring in the UK. Our high-quality, durable, and stylish flooring options are specifically designed to cater to the needs of pet owners, ensuring that your floors remain paw-friendly and look great for years to come with our 30 year product guarantee.

As pet owners ourselves, we understand the challenges that come with having pets at home. From scratches to spills, pet accidents to odours, our furry friends can wreak havoc on our floors. That’s why we have carefully curated a range of flooring options that are not only pet-proof but also aesthetically pleasing to enhance your home’s overall look.

One of the key features of our pet-friendly flooring is its durability. Our floors are specifically engineered to withstand the wear and tear that pets can cause. With superior scratch resistance, our flooring can stand up to even the sharpest claws, ensuring that your floors remain pristine and scratch-free. Whether you have a playful puppy or a senior cat, our floors are designed to handle their activities without showing signs of damage.

Accidents happen, and when they do, our pet-friendly flooring is up to the task. Our floors are waterproof, making them resistant to spills, stains, and accidents. You can have peace of mind knowing that any messes can be easily wiped away without leaving behind any stubborn stains or unpleasant odours. Say goodbye to the worries of pet-related accidents ruining your floors, and enjoy a clean and fresh living environment with Floors for Paws.

In addition to durability and waterproof features, our flooring options are also designed with the comfort and safety of your pets in mind. Our floors are slip-resistant, providing an extra layer of protection for your pets, especially for senior animals or those with mobility issues. Our textured surfaces ensure that your pets can move around comfortably without the risk of slipping, keeping them safe and secure. Two of our ranges are endorsed by Dr Hannah Capon MA Vet MB MRCVS, CCRP.

https://www.floorsforpaws.com/pawsafe-domestic-range/

At Floors for Paws, we also believe that style shouldn’t be compromised when it comes to pet-friendly flooring. Our flooring options come in a variety of styles, colours, and patterns to suit your aesthetic preferences and complement your home decor. We have a wide range of options to suit any interior design style. You can now have pet-friendly flooring that not only performs well but also adds a touch of elegance to your home.

In addition to the functional and aesthetic benefits, our pet-friendly flooring is also environmentally friendly. We strive to use sustainable materials and manufacturing processes that are eco-friendly, ensuring that our flooring options are not only safe for your pets but also for the planet.

When it comes to installation, Floors for Paws offers professional and hassle-free services. Our team of experts can guide you through the entire process, from selecting the right flooring option to installing it in your home. We take pride in providing exceptional customer service, and we are committed to ensuring that you are satisfied with your flooring choice.

In conclusion, Floors for Paws offers the perfect solution for pet-friendly flooring in the UK. Our durable, waterproof, slip-resistant, stylish, and eco-friendly flooring options are specifically designed to cater to the needs of pet owners, ensuring that your floors remain paw-friendly and beautiful. Say goodbye to scratched floors, dirty carpets and pet-related accidents, and hello to a pet-friendly home that is both functional and stylish. Trust Floors for Paws for all your pet-friendly flooring needs in the UK. Contact us today to find the perfect flooring solution for you and your furry friends.

Once you have requested your three free samples, ordering can be done quickly and easily. Simply call us on 01937 830948 or email us at info@floorsforpaws.com for a no-obligation quote. With a network of approved contractors across the UK, we can arrange for a full installation service or you can arrange your own installation. Once you have placed an order, delivery is between one and six weeks, depending on your installation preferences.

How to clean vinyl floors – a guide for pet owners

Luxury vinyl flooring is a popular option for homes but how should you clean it and what should you avoid? Our helpful guide will help you keep your vinyl flooring looking beautiful.

Regular maintenance of luxury vinyl flooring

All vinyl flooring requires regular cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking its best. If the flooring is not well cared for, it will look dull and tired. The following tips are recommended:

  • Vacuum or sweep vinyl flooring regularly, and always before mopping.
  • Deal with spillages and stains straightaway. Wipe up any spills as soon as they occur and deal with stains with a damp mop; stubborn stains can be tackled with a paste of baking soda mixed with water. Gently rub the paste into the stain until it disappears and rinse away the paste residue thoroughly.
  • Mop regularly with a damp mop and plain water.

Deep cleaning vinyl flooring

How often you deep clean your vinyl flooring will depend on foot and paw traffic! After vacuuming or sweeping the floor as usual, check for scuff marks – these can usually be buffed out with a damp microfibre cloth. For hard to reach places (along skirting boards for example) use a soft damp brush, a baby’s toothbrush is fine, and baking powder paste. Remember to remove any remaining paste.  Mop the floor with a microfibre mop and a solution of white vinegar (one cup of white vinegar in one gallon of warm water). If you like suds, or if the flooring is particularly grubby, add a couple of drops of washing up liquid to the solution. Your mop should be damp, not dripping wet, and you should replace dirty water with a fresh solution as often as necessary. Always rinse the floor well after cleaning, with plain water and a mop, and always dry the floor thoroughly to reduce the risk of moisture penetrating any seams in the vinyl.

Dos and don’ts for maintaining your vinyl flooring

Do:

  • Use a vinyl backed doormat at entrances to reduce the amount of dirt and debris being brought onto the flooring from outside. Rubber backed mats are not recommended as they can cause a reaction with the vinyl that may leave marks.
  • Use vinyl coasters/floor protectors under furniture legs to prevent damage such as scratches or dents.
  • Lift furniture when moving it.
  • Keep pets’ claws well-trimmed.
  • Wipe pet paws thoroughly after walks.

Don’t:

  • Use floor polish on vinyl flooring – it will damage the floor.
  • Use abrasive cleaners or stiff brushes – they can remove the shine and damage the surface of the vinyl.
  • Leave freshly cleaned floors wet.
  • Use a steam cleaner on vinyl flooring – the heat and moisture will cause damage and may invalidate your warranty.
  • Drag heavy furniture across vinyl flooring – it will cause scrapes and tears.
  • Wear high heels, particularly heels that come to a point like stilettos.

Once luxury vinyl flooring becomes damaged, it has to be replaced so following these simple steps will keep your flooring in tip top condition for as long as possible.

Our range of luxury vinyl flooring is available in wood effect vinyl floor planks and in stone effect luxury vinyl tiles so why not order some free samples today and see which you prefer? For any questions on how to clean vinyl flooring, our experienced sales team is available to help on 01937 830948 or by email at info@floorsforpaws.com

A guide to sheet vinyl flooring

Vinyl flooring can be supplied as tiles, planks, or sheeting. In this article, we focus on sheet vinyl flooring.

Vinyl flooring is one of many flooring solutions available for the domestic and commercial sectors, along with carpet, real wood and laminate. It is supplied in one of three formats; as vinyl flooring planks, vinyl floor tiles or as vinyl sheet flooring.

At Floor for Paws, our Luxury Vinyl and our Pawsafe Domestic ranges are available as vinyl planks and/or vinyl tiles, enabling you to be creative with patterns. Our Pawsafe Commercial range, however, is commercial sheet vinyl flooring.

What is sheet vinyl flooring?

Sheet vinyl flooring is supplied in rolls, similar to carpet, and is cut to your chosen length, based on the area of the floor to be covered. Sheet vinyl flooring allows an area to be covered with no, or very few, joins.

Features of sheet vinyl flooring

Fewer, if any, joins – depending on the roll width, sheet vinyl flooring allows an area to be recovered with no, or very few, seams

Wide choice of patterns – sheet vinyl flooring is offered in a wide selection of designs, to emulate natural materials like stone, wood and ceramic. Patterned vinyl sheet flooring features intricate patterns like those created with parquet wood flooring, allowing you to have the aesthetic of a high end floor without any of the fuss!

Absorbs noise – vinyl flooring will absorb the noise from foot traffic, making it the perfect solution for busy commercial premises and especially veterinary practices where lots of four-legged visitors are welcomed. The Pawsafe commercial range is cushioned for increased noise absorption and to be kinder on dogs’ joints.

Waterproof – with sheet vinyl flooring involving very few, if any, joins, the floor will be completely water resistant, with nowhere for moisture to penetrate.

Low maintenance – no specialist products are required to keep sheet vinyl in tip top condition; regular sweeping or vacuuming and mopping is enough.

Sheet vinyl flooring from Floors For Paws

Our Pawsafe Commercial range of flooring, approved by Canine Arthritis Management (CAM), is supplied as sheet vinyl. Offering excellent slip resistance and maximum grip, the Pawsafe Commercial range is particularly recommended for veterinary surgeries where four-legged visitors are often elderly and arthritic, or young and bouncy.

Available in a range of wood- and stone-effect designs, our sheet vinyl flooring enables commercial premises to have the warm and welcoming look of a private home with the durability and strength necessary for high volumes of traffic.

The Pawsafe range supports safe movement and provides comfort to ageing pets thanks to its thicker than average wear layer, and is being used in veterinary practices across the country.

Once you have requested your three free samples, ordering can be done quickly and easily. Simply call us on 01937 830948 or email us at info@floorsforpaws.com for a no-obligation quote. With a network of approved contractors across the UK, we can arrange for a full installation service or you can arrange your own installation. Once you have placed an order, delivery is between one and six weeks, depending on your installation preferences.

We look forward to hearing about your next project soon!

Veterinary Flooring – a guide to the best flooring for your practice

Veterinary flooring has to be durable enough to withstand some tough conditions, but it doesn’t have to look clinical and cold.

The demands on animal and veterinary flooring are huge! It has to cope with traffic that comes in all shapes, sizes and weight, be easy to clean and maintain, and resist a variety of fluids and liquids that might be left on it. Is it even possible to tick all those boxes and have a great aesthetic that will look inviting to two-legged visitors as well? At Floors for Paws, we think it is and, in this guide, we examine the features of quality veterinary clinic flooring, and why our vinyl Pawsafe Commercial Range fits the bill.

Durability

This is really important in a busy vet’s practice. Flooring needs to withstand a lot of traffic and be resistant to the wear and tear from a variety of claws, paws and maybe even hooves that will scratch and scuff. Flooring that can bear the weight of heavy equipment too is an advantage, and one that will not need to be replaced every couple of years will be appreciated by practice managers. With correct maintenance following professional installation, vinyl flooring can last for years and our entire range is supplied with a 10 year commercial guarantee.

Low maintenance and easy to clean

Veterinary floors are a breeding ground for dirt and germs but with a seamless flooring, germs and bacteria have nowhere to hide. A seamless floor is also easy to sweep and mop regularly and is impervious to liquid penetration when correctly installed. The Pawsafe Commercial Range is supplied in vinyl flooring rolls for a seamless installation and is waterproof, thanks to its PVC composition. Needing nothing more than mopping with an approved cleaning product, it is also extremely low maintenance and will cope with being washed down daily.

Slip resistant and comfortable for pets

The Pawsafe range boasts an industry-leading slip rating and has been approved by Canine Arthritis Management (CAM) as safe for arthritic dogs. The anti-slip surface offers maximum grip while the multi-layer construction also offers a level of comfort for old bones that isn’t seen in inferior quality vinyl flooring.

Good looking flooring

In a busy practice, there will be a lot of people coming and going, and having an attractive floor reflects on your brand and your values as a business. The Pawsafe Range includes a Commercial Range and a Domestic Range. Used together, the domestic range is perfect for welcoming clients in the reception and waiting areas, and the commercial range makes the best flooring in consultation and treatment areas.  Both are available in a choice of colours and patterns and offer a much less clinical look than standard veterinary flooring, while creating a coordinated look throughout the premises.

If you need new veterinary flooring, don’t just take our word for how good the Pawsafe Range is; the Caerphilly Veterinary Clinic left a wonderful testimonial after we helped them to replace their flooring. For any questions you might have, about any of our ranges, or to choose up to three free samples, please give us a call on 01937 830948 or drop us an email at info@floorsforpaws.com

Pet-proof or pet-friendly – what’s the difference?

pet friendly flooring

In the flooring industry, we often see the phrases ‘pet-proof’ and ‘pet-friendly’ but what do they each mean? Here, we examine these labels to unpick exactly what they mean for you and your pets.

What is dog-proof flooring?

If you do an internet search for dog-proof flooring, you’ll get dozens of results for flooring companies. A closer look reveals that dog-proof refers to the qualities that will best withstand the wear and tear from pets; scratch resistance, easy to clean, low maintenance, waterproof.

All of these qualities are worthy of the pet-proof label but, when you search pet friendly flooring, the same results appear. At Floors for Paws, we believe that pet friendly or dog friendly flooring should be just that – kind to your beloved pets and not just something that makes life easier for owners. Of course, a happy owner makes for a happy pet so we have created a range of flooring that is pet friendly and owner friendly.

Pet friendly flooring from Floors for Paws

All our flooring is manufactured from quality vinyl, offering all the features you’d expect from a pet-proof flooring solution.

Low maintenance – following correct installation, a vinyl floor needs nothing more than a sweep to keep it looking tidy so no more dragging the heavy vacuum out every day.

Easy to clean – a damp mop and an approved cleaning product will keep your vinyl floor looking like new.

Waterproof – PVC, the material vinyl flooring is made from, is completely waterproof.

Scratch resistant – vinyl flooring is given a final, scratch resistant, surface layer that will withstand scuffs, scratches and stains.

On top of these qualities, our flooring really is kinder to your pets, making it the best dog friendly vinyl flooring on the market. Let’s take a look at why!

What is the best pet friendly flooring?

The best pet friendly flooring is one that cares about and caters for the needs of your pet. The Pawsafe Domestic Range offers comfort for old bones thanks to a unique comfort backing that gives better cushioning – perfect for any pet but particularly older, arthritic dogs who may spend a lot of their day lying down. It also has the highest slip rating of any vinyl plank flooring currently on the market, making it the best non slip flooring for dogs. For pet owners, this means that unsteady dogs (young and old) are less likely to slip and cause damage to delicate or fragile joints.

Canine Arthritis Management (CAM)

Our Pawsafe range has been fully approved by CAM, an organisation committed to the effective, long term management of canine arthritis and has also received endorsements from veterinary clinics and animal physios.

If you would like to experience our truly dog friendly flooring solutions for yourself, you can choose up to three samples from the Pawsafe Domestic Range, the Pawsafe Commercial Range, or the Luxury Vinyl Range. Our friendly, dog mad team is also available to answer any questions you have about flooring and can be contacted on 01937 830948 or by email at info@floorsforpaws.com

Non-slip flooring for dogs

safe flooring for dogs

Watching dogs sliding along highly polished floors is funny in old cartoons, but the reality of a slippery floor, particularly for older dogs, is no laughing matter. Here, we look at non-slip flooring for dogs and why it’s so important to get it right.

The risks to dogs of slippery floors

Just like humans, dogs feel insecure on slippery surfaces and when they understand that there is the possibility of falling or sliding, it will make them unstable. For dogs of any age, this feeling of instability will lead to a lack of confidence which will make them alter their gait when walking, overusing muscles to maintain their stability. For older dogs who may be suffering from canine arthritis, as well as puppies who haven’t fully developed, a fall will cause pain and may result in serious injury.

The need for good quality, anti slip flooring for dogs is important in any setting, but especially in environments which welcome lots of dogs of different ages, such as veterinary practices, doggy day care and commercial kennels. At Floors For Paws, we work closely with veterinarian professionals to ensure we have a deep understanding of what a floor has to deliver.

The features of dog-friendly flooring

So, if you are in the market for new flooring, what should you be looking for? Humans need pet flooring that is easy to keep clean and water resistant. Dogs on the other hand, need flooring that is not hard, so that the risk of injury through falls is reduced, nor cold as cold flooring affects circulation and is unforgiving to arthritic paws.  Flooring that offers good traction and grip will not only reduce the incidence of sliding for the dogs but will also allow them to get back up more easily if they do fall.

Best non slip flooring for dogs

While carpet is soft and warm, it isn’t very practical when it comes to accidents and in a commercial setting is impractical from a hygiene point of view. Wood flooring and laminate both offer a great aesthetic and can be durable and hardwearing for the humans walking on it. Sadly for our four legged friends, they are both highly slippery and would be a hard landing surface for dogs of any age. Just as slippery are ceramic tiles, which come with the added disadvantage to dogs of being extremely cold under paws. So what does that leave?

Luxury vinyl flooring

Luxury vinyl flooring is perfect for owners and dogs alike. Humans love that it is easy to clean, scratch resistant, waterproof and available in a wide range of attractive designs. Dogs love that it is not cold to the touch, is comfortable to lie down on and has good grip when they want to get back up.

Ease of cleaning, scratch resistance, traction, and moisture damage are all considerations in choosing the best flooring for homes with pets. Both laminate and luxury vinyl flooring are great choices but if the pet is prone to accidents, luxury vinyl is the way to go thanks to its waterproof qualities.

The Pawsafe Commercial Range from Floors For Paws

Our Pawsafe commercial flooring is high quality vinyl roll flooring approved by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) that will please two- and four-legged users! Ideal for making pet-care settings and veterinary practices more appealing, while being easy to clean and maintain, the wide range of colours and designs available would also look perfect in a family home. With a cushion comfort layer and an anti-slip wear layer, this is a flooring that is kind to puppies and dogs of all ages and gentle on their joints.

To find out more about a flooring that appeals to humans while prioritising the needs of their pets, or to order three free samples, call us today on 01937 830948 or email us at info@floorsforpaws.com