What flooring is best for dogs?

A guide to the best flooring for dogs in any situation.

At Floors for Paws, we believe that the best flooring for dogs should be suitable for the setting, the dogs and their humans. Here we tell you why we believe a Floors for Paws solution is the best for everyone!

Dog friendly flooring

As our four-legged friends spend the majority of their time on the floor, it’s vital we understand what they need from it. We also need to understand that what they need from flooring isn’t necessarily what we, as owners, need. We have discussed the difference between pet-proof and pet-friendly flooring previously but here is a quick recap.

What do dogs need from flooring?

  • Dogs need a flooring solution that allows them to move around with confidence, while feeling safe and secure on their paws. Pups finding their feet are prone to joint damage and dislocation on slippery floors, and need stability while developing muscles gain strength. Likewise, elderly dogs risk pain and breakages if they fall. So, a non slip flooring for dogs that offers them good grip, is essential.
  • All dogs deserve to lie down and be comfortable, especially older dogs who may have canine arthritis. Comfort means a forgiving surface that isn’t hard and one that remains at a consistent temperature – cold surfaces will exacerbate joint pain.

What do owners need from flooring?

  • We know that our customers want the best flooring for their dogs by what do they need it to do/have to meet their needs?
  • Easy to clean – this is especially true in high traffic areas of the home or anywhere that will encounter muddy paws and shoes.
  • Tough and durable and resistant to claws and scratches – unless you opt for a tiled surface, other flooring will succumb to claws, with wood, carpet and laminate quickly showing signs of damage.
  • Waterproof is important. From toilet accidents caused by training puppies or age-related canine incontinence, to upturned water bowls, our floors need to be waterproof.
  • A great aesthetic – let’s face it, we want our floors to look good, whichever room they’re in. For businesses that welcome dogs it’s important that human visitors get the right impression as soon as they cross the threshold too.

Why Floors for Paws offers the best flooring for dogs in the UK

At Floors for Paws, we offer a choice of three dog-friendly flooring solutions that are also dog owner friendly! So, whether you need a stylish yet traditional floor in your dining room, or a hardwearing floor for your veterinary practice, we have the floor for you.

Pawsafe Domestic Range

  • A textured surface layer gives dogs a secure footing
  • Offers a consistent temperature year-round
  • Sound absorption 15db
  • Will withstand scratches from dog claws
  • Low maintenance and waterproof
  • Approved by Canine Arthritis Management
  • Vet endorsed
  • Offered in a choice of plank size
  • Suitable for any room in the house and ideal for commercial reception areas
  • 30 year domestic guarantee/10 year commercial guarantee when professionally installed
  • See the entire range here

Pawsafe Commercial Range

  • A textured non slip surface layer
  • Offers a consistent temperature year-round
  • Will withstand scratches from dog claws
  • Low maintenance and waterproof
  • Approved by Canine Arthritis Management
  • Offered as a continuous piece off the roll (like carpet)
  • Perfect for high traffic commercial areas (veterinary consultation rooms, dog day care centres, canine cafes)
  • See the entire range here

Luxury Vinyl Range

  • Textured surface
  • Double wear layer
  • Choice of wood- or stone-effect finish
  • Offered as tiles (great for creating traditional floor patterns)
  • Low maintenance and waterproof
  • Durable and scratch resistant
  • 30 year domestic guarantee when professionally installed
  • Perfect for hallways, living rooms and dining rooms, kitchens and bathrooms
  • See the entire range here

For information about any of our ranges, email the team at info@floorsforpaws.com or give us a call on 01522 300218 today.

Pet friendly flooring options – A guide for dog owners

dog on Pet friendly flooring

Best pet friendly flooring options: A comprehensive guide

When it comes to finding the perfect flooring for homes with dogs, there are several factors to consider, such as durability, scratch resistance, ease of cleaning, and comfort. As pet owners ourselves, we understand the importance of choosing flooring that meets both your aesthetic desires and practical needs. Here’s everything you need to know about the best flooring options for dogs.

Why Flooring Choice Matters for Dog Owners AND dogs

Time to switch our thinking from ‘how can my dog damage my floor’ TO ‘how can my floor damage my dog’ Dogs are not just pets; they are family members who spend a lot of time indoors. The right flooring can make a significant difference in their comfort and your home’s maintenance. Poor flooring choices can lead to scratches, stains that will upset you and much worse – joint issues for your pets.

Top Pet Friendly flooring Flooring Options for Dogs

1.Standard Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)
Durability: LVT is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches and stains.
Comfort: Provides a softer surface compared to hardwood or tile, which is easier on your dog’s joints.
Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain, perfect for households with multiple pets.

2. Laminate Flooring
Scratch Resistance: High-quality laminate flooring is resistant to scratches and dents.
Affordability: More budget-friendly compared to hardwood.
Variety: Available in various styles and colors to match any decor.

3. Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles
Waterproof: Ideal for homes with dogs that might have accidents.
Durability: Extremely durable and resistant to scratches.
Cool Surface: Provides a cool surface in warm climates, which dogs may find comfortable in summer.

4. Bamboo Flooring
Eco-Friendly: A sustainable option that’s also durable and resistant to wear.
Scratch Resistance: Comparable to hardwood in terms of scratch resistance.
Maintenance: Easy to clean but may require refinishing over time.

Worst pet friendly flooring options for dogs; What to Avoid

Carpet: While comfortable, carpets can stain easily and trap pet hair and odors.
Softwood Flooring: Prone to scratches and dents from pet claws.
High-Gloss Finishes: These can show scratches more readily and are slippery for pets.

Tips for Maintaining Pet Friendly Flooring

Regular Cleaning: Sweep and mop regularly to keep floors free of pet hair and dirt.
Use Rugs and Mats: Place them in high-traffic areas to protect your floors and your dog’s joints
Nail Trimming: Keep your dog’s nails trimmed to prevent scratches.

Why Choose Floors for Paws?
At Floors for Paws, we specialize in pet-friendly flooring solutions that cater to the needs of both owners AND their dogs. Our flooring options are designed to be durable, easy to clean, waterproof, claw resistant and most importantly; comfortable and safe flooring for dogs. Whether you’re looking for luxury vinyl tiles, laminate, or other types of pet-proof flooring, we’ve got you covered. Our PawSafe domestic and commercial ranges are Vet endorsed and championed by Canine Arthritis management.

Conclusion
Choosing the right pet friendly flooring options for your home is crucial when you have pets. By selecting durable, easy-to-maintain, AND safe/comfortable flooring options, you can ensure a happy home for both you and your pets.

Explore our range of pet-friendly flooring options today and give your furry friends the safety and comfort they deserve and the hassle-free floor that you deserve.

For more information on our Vet endorsed products, visit PawSafe domestic range.

 

The benefits of LVT flooring

LVP flooring dogs

A guide to luxury vinyl flooring and its benefits to pets and their owners.

What are luxury vinyl tiles?

Luxury vinyl tiles or LVT, is a manmade flooring option. It is available in a plank format like laminate flooring and traditional square tiles. Although a manmade synthetic product, LVT can have the realistic appearance of stone, ceramic or wood, thanks to production techniques.

LVT Vs. laminate

LVT is a more flexible product and has a more forgiving surface compared to the plastic-coated, pressed wood pulp construction of laminate. Being more durable than laminate means that vinyl flooring often has a much longer guarantee.

Glue down or vinyl click?

LVT is available in two varieties, depending on how it will be installed – glue down or click. Like laminate boards, vinyl click flooring panels lock into each other and because it is not permanently fixed to the floor, is also known as floating vinyl flooring. Contrary to popular opinion, click flooring does need sub-floor preparation and an underlay, unlike glue down vinyl that requires only subfloor prep. LVT Vs. click flooring – Which is best for dog owners? has more on this.

Why owners love LVT from Floors for Paws

  • Maintaining LVT – LVT flooring is low maintenance and needs little beyond sweeping or vacuuming regularly, and mopping with plain water. Of course, as with any flooring, spills should be dealt with immediately. For the dos and don’ts of caring for LVT flooring, see How to clean vinyl floors – a guide for pet owners
  • Durability – luxury vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws has a multi-layer construction, with layers heat fused together to give extra strength and durability.
  • Aesthetics – available in real wood- or stone-effect designs, LVT offers high end looks for any style of interior. Our luxury vinyl planks can be used to create traditional designs such as herringbone, while our stone-effect tiles give the look of a ceramic floor.
  • Kind to pets – a textured, anti-slip surface layer helps to stabilise dogs that are unsteady on the legs and the high density fleece backing gives comfort to ageing joints.

Why pets love LVT from Floors for Paws

Comfort – hard surfaces such a real wood or laminate floors, are uncomfortable to lie down on for prolonged lengths of time so LVT offers the older dog a more comfortable option. The soft comfort layer provides cushioning not found in other hard floors.

Textured surface for grip and stability – for arthritic senior dogs or dogs with hip dysplasia, it is essential to reduce the risk of injury through slipping. And young and old dogs alike will love the feeling of security they get from a stable, non-slip surface.

Warm – the backing prevents the LVT from feeling cold to the touch, like ceramic or porcelain tiles, making it nicer to lie on for any length of time. Dogs seem to love lying on it!

Pet-friendly LVT from Floors for Paws

Our luxury vinyl flooring range offers customers a choice of 6 stone-effect finishes and 6 wood-effect finishes to appeal to all tastes. To help you narrow your choice, order up to three free samples today.

https://www.floorsforpaws.com/luxury-vinyl-range/

Alternatively our friendly sales team is available via email at info@floorsforpaws.com or phone on 01522 300218

The best flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

A guide to the best flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws.

As a nation of dog lovers, we all want the best flooring for dogs but what exactly is that and how do our flooring ranges tick all those boxes? Read on to find out!

Best flooring for dogs

When our pets are either very young, or starting to age, it’s important that they are kept comfortable and safe, to support their development and to avoid any unnecessary discomfort.

Features of pet-friendly flooring

  • Dogs of all ages, but particularly those at either end of their lives, need non-slip flooring. For the young, unsteady pup, a floor that will provide stability under-paw and not increase their chance of slipping will help them to develop without fear of injury. Older dogs who may be suffering from canine arthritis need the same stability to make them feel safe and secure – injuries to older dogs from slipping can be life-threatening, painful and for owners, expensive!
  • When we think of how long our dogs spend lying down and sleeping, it’s easy to see why pet-friendly flooring needs to be comfortable and warm. Cold hard surfaces will add to any arthritic pain your dog may be experiencing and we know ourselves, that sleeping on a hard surface does not contribute to a good night’s sleep!

So, if the above is what our dogs need, what do we as owners need from our floors for them to work for us too? It goes without saying that we want the best for our dogs, but we also need the best flooring for us, and that means our floors have to be pet-friendly and pet-proof!

Features of Floors for paws best flooring for dogs 

  • Durability – pet-proof flooring will withstand the wear and tear from dogs (thinks claws and teeth!).
  • Waterproof – flooring that will not perish under the inevitable ‘accidents’ from puppies and incontinent senior dogs is a must.

Flooring from Floors for Paws that ticks all the boxes

At Floors for Paws, we offer home owners a range of vinyl flooring that is not only pet-friendly but is also pet-proof. Add in to the mix that our flooring is aesthetically pleasing and low maintenance and you’ll see why our flooring is the best flooring for dogs.

Pawsafe Domestic range

With the highest slip rating of any luxury vinyl flooring in today’s market, the Pawsafe Domestic range has a textured surface layer to safeguard against slips and falls, plus a generous comfort layer. When professionally installed, the Pawsafe Domestic range comes with a 30-year domestic guarantee and is easy to keep clean. Waterproof and stylish, the range is available in a choice of finishes to please even the most discerning homeowner – from wood-effect planks perfect for creating a herringbone pattern to stone-effect tiles.

Benefits of Pawsafe Domestic range for dogs:

  • Safe
  • Comfortable
  • Hypo-allergenic

Benefits of Pawsafe Domestic range for dog owners:

  • Waterproof
  • Durable
  • Zero maintenance
  • 30 year domestic guarantee
  • Stain resistant
  • Dog claw resistant

The range is fully endorsed by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) to give you the confidence that you will get the perfect flooring for you that is also the best flooring for your dogs.

To find out more email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or by phone on 01522 300218. And if you’d like to try before you buy, you can also order up to three free samples.

A guide to commercial flooring

Representing a financial and strategic investment for business owners, the right commercial flooring is essential. Our guide tells you what to look for!

What is commercial flooring?

Commercial flooring refers to flooring used in any commercial setting or business. However, as commercial spaces include shops, hotels and restaurants, offices, schools, veterinarian practices, factories and so much more, it’s not surprising that not every flooring will suit every business. So, for business owners, what options are there and what qualities do you need in your flooring?

Types of commercial flooring and the businesses they are suitable for

Carpet – great for busy offices where it will be comfortable and sound absorbing.

Luxury vinyl tiles/sheet vinyl – good for settings that need durability and low maintenance, such as healthcare settings.

Ceramic or porcelain tiles – ideal for high end establishments such as luxury hotels and independent, boutique shops.

Hardwood flooring – for anywhere wanting to create a timeless atmosphere, combined with durability. Great for retail spaces and offices.

Laminate flooring – a cost-effective way of recreating the look of a hardwood floor, laminate works well in communal office areas and retail spaces.

Features of good commercial flooring

Commercial flooring has to tick many boxes, depending on the setting, as follows:

  • Low maintenance flooring is a must where it experiences high volume traffic.
  • Aesthetics – do not underestimate the importance of the look of your floor – it needs to suit your business and work with your interior.
  • Flooring has to be durable enough to withstand the volume of traffic and still maintain its looks.
  • Moisture resistant – does the flooring need to cope with a variety of conditions? For example, wet foot traffic? Spillages in restaurants? A high volume of cleaning? Your flooring choice is important!

But what happens when your business involves four-legged paw traffic? You might be a bustling veterinary practice offering a fear-free environment, or a dog daycare centre, or you may have a dog-friendly café. Does your commercial flooring need to tick different boxes? Almost certainly!

Features of good commercial flooring for dogs

  • Non slip flooring for dogs is essential in any setting but commercial non slip flooring is vital for pets and their owners. All dogs particularly puppies and seniors, can slip and fall, injuring themselves. A flooring that offers stability and helps them maintain their balance is non-negotiable.
  • For our pets, who spend the majority of their waking hours lying down, a safe and comfortable floor is a must to avoid pressure sores.
  • Durability is key if your pet-friendly flooring is to cope with the wear and tear inflicted by paws and claws. It needs to be pee-resistant too, stand up well to being chewed and scratched, and be easy to maintain.
  • Waterproof flooring is essential for floors that will be washed and cleaned on a daily basis.
  • A steady stream of noisy paws on your commercial flooring could upset your neighbours very quickly so a sound absorbing flooring is useful.

Head over to The importance of non-slip flooring for dogs and their owners to find out more.

At Floors For Paws, we believe that vinyl flooring is the best flooring for dogs, and we have worked hard in conjunction with CAM (Canine Arthritis Management), to develop a range of commercial vinyl flooring that we believe is the best non slip flooring for dogs currently on the market.

Commercial non slip flooring from Floors For Paws

Our Pawsafe Commercial range has the highest slip rating for any commercial vinyl on today’s market and features a cushion comfort layer to ease old bones, that also increases its ability to absorb noise. Supplied on the roll (like carpet), the vinyl requires very few, if any joins (depending on the area to be covered) making it completely impervious to moisture penetration and therefore completely waterproof. It is offered in a choice of colours and patterns to give a more welcoming aesthetic to your business and, when used alongside the Pawsafe Domestic range, can offer a completely coordinated look for your premises.

To find out more or to order up to three free samples, click here or contact us by phone on 01522 300218 or email at info@floorsforpaws.com

 

Best flooring for homes with dogs

best flooring for dogs

Here at Floors for Paws we only sell vinyl flooring because it is universally recognised as the best flooring for dogs. Vinyl flooring is a top choice for dog owners. It’s completely waterproof, which means it handles accidents and spills with ease. Vinyl is also known for its durability and resistance to scratches. The Pawsafe Domestic range offers a textured, anti-slip surface, perfect for preventing slips and providing comfort for dogs and owners alike. Additionally, vinyl is easy to clean, making it a low-maintenance option.

Let’s look into the other options that are available on the market:

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is another option for homeowners with dogs. It’s durable and scratch-resistant, although not as waterproof as vinyl. To improve traction and reduce the risk of slipping, opt for laminates with a textured finish. Laminate can mimic the look of wood or stone, offering a stylish yet practical solution for pet owners.

Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo flooring is an eco-friendly and durable option that’s more resistant to scratches than traditional hardwood. It’s also more water-resistant, although not entirely waterproof. Bamboo is hard enough to withstand dogs’ nails and is less likely to dent, making it a solid choice for pet-friendly homes but can be slippery.

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is a timeless and beautiful option, but it requires more care when you have dogs and may need re-sanding regularly. Harder woods like oak or hickory are more resistant to scratches and dents. Engineered hardwood is a good alternative, offering more stability and moisture resistance compared to solid hardwood.

Cork Flooring

Cork flooring is softer and provides excellent comfort for dogs, reducing strain on their joints. It offers good traction and is naturally antimicrobial, resisting mould and mildew. However, cork is prone to scratches and dents, so it might not be suitable for homes with dogs.

The Importance of Subfloor Preparation

No matter what type of flooring you choose, proper subfloor preparation is crucial. Ensuring your subfloor is level, clean, and dry will maximize the performance and longevity of your flooring. Poor subfloor preparation can lead to issues like uneven surfaces, poor adhesion, and ultimately, a shorter lifespan for your flooring. It is a common misconception that many floors do not need sub-floor preparation.

Floors for Paws dog-friendly flooring features

When choosing flooring for your home, consider these key features from Floors for Paws:

Scratch Resistance: Can withstand your dog’s nails and prevent visible scratches.

Waterproof: Floors that are waterproof or highly water-resistant are ideal for dealing with spills and accidents.

Traction: Floors with good traction help prevent slips and falls, which is especially important for older dogs or those with mobility issues.

Durability: Choose flooring that can handle the wear and tear of daily dog activity.

Cushioned backing: Our PawSafe domestic and commercial ranges have a cushioned backing to provide support for your dog’s joints.

Vet approved: We have supplied flooring to many veterinary practices including The Hampshire Vet.

Finding the best flooring for your home with dogs involves balancing durability, comfort, and aesthetics. Vinyl flooring stands out for its waterproof properties and ease of maintenance. Laminate, bamboo, and engineered hardwood also provide excellent alternatives depending on your specific needs but can be slippery and have their limitations in terms of damage. Remember, proper subfloor preparation is key to ensuring your new flooring performs well and lasts long.

At Floors for Paws, we are committed to helping you find the perfect flooring solution for you and your dogs. Explore our range of pet-friendly flooring options and give your home the perfect blend of style, practicality, and safety. 

If you have any further questions after that, we’re here to help. Contact us at info@floorsforpaws.com or on 01522 300218.

Canine Arthritis – Prevention is the best solution

Canine arthritis

Thanks to Canine Arthritis Management, headed by Super Vet Hannah Capon we know have a much better indicator of the best treatment for dogs with Arthritis. If you have a dog who is, or you think is struggling with this head over to their website for an in depth look at the best options to help your dog. https://caninearthritis.co.uk/managing-arthritis/

Arthritis is a condition that tends to appear later in life but is often due to the accumulation of joint wear and tear and injuries throughout a dog’s life. 

One of the main pieces of advice relates to slippery floors. If you have a dog with any condition which affects their gait it is important that you look at your flooring in and around the home. Many dogs in the later stages of Arthritis will need rugs, runners or carpet offcuts if the home has hard, smooth flooring. 

But how do we prevent so many cases of arthritis? We at Floors For Paws believe that having an Anti-slip floor will go a long way to protect the joints of your dog. One of the main causes of injury in canines is from slipping on floors. Our work with Animal physios highlighted the correlation between smooth flooring and injury in dogs. 

A safe flooring for your dog will limit the risk of joint injuries and potential Vet bills. 

Along with arthritis Floors For Paws has helped dogs with ACL/CCL injury, hip dysplasia, spinal injury, and degenerative myelopathy who had previously struggled on smooth flooring. 

 

Video below: Donna Wills (PGC A Phys, RVN. Member of IAAT, BVNA and RAMP – Founder of Animal Physiotherapy Ltd) and Hannah Capon (MA Vet MB MRCVS Director of Canine Arthritis Management) discuss flooring effects on Canine Arthritis.

 

  

A guide to choosing the best flooring for dogs: everything you need to know

Best flooring for dogs

Searching for the best flooring for dogs can often seem a daunting task as you want something stylish and durable, but also comfortable and safe for your furry friend. When you search ‘Best flooring for dogs’ or ‘Pet friendly flooring’ you will mainly see results that point you to flooring options that are best for dog owners. That is not always the same thing.

In today’s comprehensive guide, we deconstruct what dogs want in a flooring as opposed to what most dog owners prioritise.

Let’s take Jenny. She has just bought a new puppy. She currently has carpets throughout but wants something that will be more appropriate for the onslaught the flooring will take with a news puppy in tow!

What are her initial needs? Scratch-resistant flooring for dogs, waterproof flooring for dogs, easy to clean flooring for dogs.

Scratch-resistant best flooring for dogs

This will be essential in order to maintain an attractive floor. What would be good floor options for scratch resistant flooring for dogs?

  • Laminate flooring
  • Tile flooring
  • Luxury vinyl flooring with a PU layer of over 0.55mm
  • Stone flooring

Waterproof best flooring for dogs

Young pup is bound to have some accidents, so this is a no brainer. What would be good floor options for waterproof flooring for dogs?

Easy to clean best Flooring for Dogs

High on the list of Jenny’s priorities is likely to be easy to clean flooring for dogs. What floor options does she have?

  • Laminate flooring
  • Tile flooring -ceramic or porcelain
  • Luxury vinyl flooring
  • Click LVT

So, Jenny has researched her options and the one that ticks all the boxes is vinyl flooring.

Now let us look at what her puppy would prioritise.

Pup wants the following:

  • Secure footing/good grip
  • Comfortable under foot
  • Cool in summer and not cold in winter
  • Hypo-allergenic

What is the best option for your dog?

Estimates suggest that around 1 in 3 dogs will develop arthritis in their lifetime, with the percentage increasing significantly in older dogs (80% of dogs over 8 years old might have some degree of arthritis). As with everything, prevention is better than the cure. By giving your dog safe flooring from an early age, it can help to prevent slips that can lead to joint issues, injuries and osteoarthritis in dogs.

But let’s not forget Jenny. She is the one who pays the bills after all! Her priorities are:

  • Scratch resistance and durability
  • Waterproof
  • Ease of cleaning and maintenance

If only there was a dog-friendly and pet-proof flooring that could tick all the boxes…

Floors for paws PawSafe domestic range

  • Secure footing/good grip for dogs
  • Comfortable under foot
  • Cool in summer and not cold in winter
  • Hypo-allergenic
  • Scratch resistance and durable
  • Waterproof
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Vet endorsed

Ready to find the perfect balance for you and your furry friend in your home? Order your free samples from the PawSafe Domestic range today.

If you want the best flooring for your dogs, simply call us today on 01522 300218 to find out more, or  drop us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

Discover the best flooring options for dogs?

Best flooring for dogs

 

At Floors for Paws, we know that our customers all want the best for their pets but when it comes to our homes, what is the best flooring for dogs? Here, we look at which flooring is good for our four legged friends.

 

When it comes to our homes, we are spoiled for choice – do we want carpet, or ceramic tiles, or laminate or vinyl? But which of these is good flooring for dogs and are we confusing Pet-proof or pet-friendly and what’s the difference?

Ceramic tiles

Arguably a fine-looking flooring solution and practical in terms of maintenance and cleaning, ceramic tiles are cold underfoot and underpaw. Unyielding too, ceramic tiles are hard and uncomfortable to lie on and will cause pain in older, arthritic joints. The smooth finish of ceramic tiles also represents a huge slip hazard to dogs and humans. For young, gangly pups trying to find their feet, and senior dogs trying to maintain their stability, ceramic tiles are hard to navigate safely and pose a serious risk to our pets.

Laminate flooring and solid wood floors

Representing a comparable slip hazard to ceramic tiles for our pets, solid wood floors and laminate flooring have a further disadvantage for pet owners – their reaction to liquid spills. The wood content in laminate floors (its core consists of compressed wood fibres) means it can never be classed as waterproof and, when exposed to excess liquids, will buckle and warp. Similarly, solid wood floors can cause slips and are uncomfortable, and can become seriously discoloured through continuous exposure to moisture.

Carpet

Carpet is lovely for our pets – it’s comfortable to lie on and warm – and nothing beats the feel of a deep pile carpet underfoot for us. Sadly though, we rarely walk barefoot outdoors, unlike our pets, and transfer from their paws can include dirt, mites, pollen and much worse! This unwelcome matter gathers in the carpet pile and can be difficult to clean away effectively. Add to this the sponge effect of carpet when it comes into contact with liquid (think toilet training pups and incontinent senior dogs) and you can see that while carpet is a kind solution to pets, it is not ideal for pet owners.

So, does the elusive solution exist that is not only a dog friendly flooring but that will tick all the boxes for pet owners? At Floors for Paws, we believe it does!

Luxury vinyl flooring from Floor for Paws

At Floors for Paws, we offer three ranges of vinyl flooring, which are all pet friendly and which will keep pet owners very happy too!

The Pawsafe ranges from Floors for Paws

Developed in conjunction with Canine Arthritis Management (CAM), our Pawsafe Domestic range is ideal for any room in the house. Offered as planks or tiles, the range comes in both wood- and stone-effect finishes in a wide choice of colourways. The textured surface layer makes this the best non-slip flooring for dogs as it has the highest slip rating of any vinyl flooring in today’s market and a comfort layer means that older dogs will be able to lie down on it comfortably. Pet owners love this range too as it is scratch resistant, waterproof and easy to maintain, while its great aesthetic will suit any interior.

The Pawsafe Commercial range from Floors for Paws has also been developed alongside the expert veterinarians at CAM. With the same brilliant features and benefits of the Pawsafe Domestic range, the Pawsafe Commercial range is offered as sheet vinyl on the roll. With hardly any joins, depending on the area to be covered, this is a completely waterproof flooring that is hardwearing enough to cope with the high traffic of commercial premises.

Luxury vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws

Our luxury vinyl range offers pet owners a wide choice between wood-effect finishes (great for creating traditional herringbone designs) and a stone-effect look (great for those who want the aesthetic of a ceramic floor).

To find out more about the best flooring for dogs (and their owners!), get in touch with our friendly team by email at info@floorsforpaws.com or by phone on 01522 300218.

Preventing Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: The Importance of Non-Slip Flooring

vet in practice

Hip dysplasia is a common musculoskeletal condition in dogs, particularly in large breeds such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Great Danes. This debilitating condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to instability and eventual degeneration of the joint. While genetics play a significant role in the development of hip dysplasia, there are environmental factors that can contribute to its onset or exacerbate its symptoms.

One often-overlooked factor in the development of hip dysplasia is the type of flooring in a dog’s environment. Slippery surfaces, such as hardwood or tile floors, can exacerbate the symptoms of hip dysplasia by causing dogs to splay their legs outward in an attempt to maintain their balance. This unnatural gait puts additional strain on the hip joints, increasing the risk of injury and accelerating joint degeneration over time. For more information on joint issues and canine arthritis please visit Canine Arthritis Management.

To mitigate the risk of hip dysplasia and alleviate discomfort for dogs already suffering from the condition, pet owners should consider implementing non-slip flooring in their homes. Non-slip flooring provides dogs with better traction and stability, reducing the likelihood of slips, falls, and injuries.

There are several short-term options for non-slip flooring that pet owners can explore, including rubber mats, carpeting, and specialized non-slip coatings. Rubber mats offer excellent traction and can be placed strategically in high-traffic areas where dogs are most likely to walk. Carpeting provides a soft and comfortable surface for dogs to walk on while also offering improved grip compared to hard flooring materials. However, If you prefer to have more hygienic options that will last a lifetime then Floors for paws is for you.

Pawsafe Domestic Range

Our Pawsafe Domestic range is a luxury vinyl plank flooring offering the aesthetic and choice that our customers want. Durable and scratch resistant, the luxurious cushion comfort layer is kind to old bones and sore joints, while the anti-slip wear layer will help your dog not to slip and slide. A textured surface aids traction and allows infirm dogs to move around confidently, without the fear of losing their balance. Available in a choice of plank sizes and a herringbone option, Pawsafe Domestic is low maintenance and, when professionally installed, completely waterproof with a 30-year domestic guarantee.

Pawsafe Commercial Range

Our Pawsafe Commercial range has been developed in conjunction with Canine Arthritis Management (CAM) and when weighing up the best and worst flooring for dogs, it’s easy to see why so many people love this floor. For humans, the range is durable and hardwearing and waterproof when professionally installed. This vinyl flooring is easy to maintain, scratch resistant and comes on a roll in a choice of colours and finishes to create individual looks in any style of interior.

For dogs, this flooring is second to none. It has the highest slip rating of any vinyl flooring currently on the market with a textured upper surface to aid traction. What’s more, its high density, fleece comfort backing gives better cushioning for older, painful joints.

Best flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

To chat through your requirements for the best flooring for older dogs, please get in touch, and our friendly sales team will be happy to help. Email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or give us a call on 01522 300218.