LVT flooring for pet owners. You'll love the results
The choice of flooring available in today’s market can be daunting but, for pet owners, it’s vital to choose the best flooring for dogs. Here, we look at the pros and cons of LVT flooring in particular.
What is LVT flooring?
LVT flooring is the abbreviation for luxury vinyl tile flooring, a synthetic flooring solution that, thanks to advances in production techniques, mimics the look of natural wood, stone, and ceramic.
The benefits of LVT flooring
Beautiful designs – LVT flooring offers the look and style that discerning homeowners demand. Innovative 3D printing techniques produce tiles that replicate the aesthetic of natural wood and stone, making this flooring suitable for anywhere in the home.
Strength and durability - at Floors for Paws, our luxury vinyl range comprises several layers, including a high density fleece backing, a reinforcement layer and a coated anti-slip wear upper layer. Layers are heat fused together and this composition ensures maximum strength and durability, while protecting the design integrity of the floor.
Low maintenance - stain and scratch resistant, LVT flooring is easy to maintain and will continue to look its best with a basic level of care. How to clean vinyl floors includes lots of dos and don’ts for regular maintenance as well as deep cleaning advice.
Waterproof – luxury vinyl repels moisture and when professionally installed it is virtually waterproof.
LVT lifespan
The average lifespan of LVT is around 25-30 years and at Floors for Paws, we are so confident in the quality of our products that, when they are professionally installed, they will come with a 30-year domestic guarantee. Manufactured to stand the test of time, luxury vinyl is a great option for busy homes.
The cons of LVT flooring
Compared to the benefits it offers, luxury vinyl flooring has relatively few cons. It can be difficult to remove once it has been glued down, and it can dent easily so furniture coasters/floor protectors should be used under heavy furniture.
What is the best flooring when you have a dog?
When you have a dog, the best flooring is one that balances durability, hygiene, and safety. Dogs bring joy, but also muddy paws, sharp claws, and the occasional accident. Many traditional floors, such as laminate or carpet, simply aren’t designed for that reality. Laminate can swell if water seeps in, carpet traps odours and stains, and tiles, although waterproof can be slippery and uncomfortable for dogs.
Luxury vinyl flooring (LVT) is widely considered the best option for dog owners because it’s scratch resistant, waterproof, and easy to clean. But not all vinyls are equal. Look for flooring that has been specifically tested for slip resistance, so your dog isn’t at risk of slipping and injuring themselves. At Floors for Paws, our PawSafe range was developed with vets to offer both durability and safety, meaning you get a stylish floor that’s designed for real life with dogs.
Is LVT or laminate better for dogs?
If you’re choosing between LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tiles) and laminate for a home with dogs, LVT comes out on top almost every time. Laminate is cheaper, but it has a big weakness: it doesn’t cope well with moisture. Dog water bowls, muddy paws, and the odd accident can seep into the joints of laminate, causing it to swell, lift, or warp over time.
LVT, on the other hand, is fully waterproof and made to handle everyday pet life. It also tends to be quieter underfoot than laminate, which means less click-clack noise from your dog’s nails. Importantly, quality LVT is also more slip resistant than laminate, making it safer for pets — especially older dogs or breeds prone to joint issues.
While laminate may look good on day one, it often struggles to last in a busy pet household. LVT is an investment that provides durability, hygiene, and peace of mind, making it the smarter choice for dog owners.
FAQs: What floors do dogs not slip on?
Dogs slip most often on smooth, shiny surfaces like tiles, polished wood, or budget vinyl. This can be a real welfare issue, particularly for senior dogs or those with arthritis. To prevent slips, you need flooring with a high slip-resistance rating. In the UK, this is measured using the PTV (Pendulum Test Value) The higher the score, the safer the surface.
Floors with built-in grip, such as specialist slip-resistant vinyl, are the best option. They provide enough traction so your dog’s paws don’t skid, while still being easy to clean and maintain. At Floors for Paws, our PawSafe range has been independently tested for slip resistance, meaning it performs even in wet conditions (like after a bath or muddy walk).
So if your goal is a home where your dog can walk, run, and play safely, look for flooring specifically designed with anti-slip technology. It keeps them confident on their feet and protects their joints for the long term.
Luxury vinyl flooring is the best flooring for dogs
Our PawSafe domestic range is offered in a choice of finishes to suit every home and offers all the features and benefits outlined above. However, it is where a home has pets that this flooring really comes into its own. The range is endorsed by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) and has been designed with your pets’ comfort in mind. With a non-slip surface and extra layer for comfort, our LVT also features a textured surface to enable older, infirm dogs or even gangly puppies, to maintain their footing and therefore reduce the risk of injury, allowing them to move safely.
Upgrade your floors today with Floors for Paws
Free samples available
If you would like to see for yourself what our PawSafe domestic range can offer you and your pets, order up to three free samples, or more for a small charge.
Try our new room visualiser to see our products in your own home here
If you like what you see/receive, ordering with us couldn’t be simpler. Send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com or give our friendly team a call on 01522 300218, and we will do the rest.
