Why dogs slip on smooth floors
As an owner, you’ve likely seen your dogs slip on smooth floors. Whether it’s a quick sprint down the hallway or a playful dash in the kitchen. While humans might find these smooth, hard surfaces easy to navigate, for dogs they can be hazardous. At Floors for Paws, we understand the struggles pets face when navigating slippery floors, which is why we provide flooring solutions that combine style and safety. But why do dogs slip on smooth floors more than humans? And how our specialised flooring can prevent these accidents.
According to veterinary experts, the primary reason dogs slip on hard flooring like hardwood or laminate is due to their anatomical differences compared to humans. Dr. Lauren Davis; For dogs with joint issues or arthritis, slipping on smooth floors exacerbates their pain, making it harder for them to move comfortably. Although hardwood or laminate can be visually appealing, they can be slippery for arthritic dogs.’
Despite popular belief, dog’s paws are relatively hard compared to human feet and cannot gain as much traction. This means that, unlike humans who have more natural grip on these surfaces, dogs can find smooth floors treacherous. Their paws don’t have the same gripping ability, especially on surfaces like hardwood, tile, or laminate, where they might slide unexpectedly.
The impact on older or larger dogs
The issue is especially pronounced in dogs with mobility challenges, such as older dogs, overweight dogs, or larger breeds. Dogs with arthritis or hip dysplasia, for instance, can experience increased pain when trying to walk on slippery floors, leading to falls, joint strain, and further discomfort.
Dogs are more likely to experience sprains and strains due to these sudden movements on slippery floors. This is a significant concern for dog owners, as it can lead to higher veterinary costs and affect the overall well-being of the dog.
The benefits of Floors for Paws flooring
What is the solution? At Floors for Paws, we provide a range of flooring options designed specifically to address this issue. Our floors are designed to give dogs the traction they need while also maintaining a stylish and durable finish for you.
1. Enhanced traction and grip for them
As noted by Canine Kinetics, ‘slippery floors can be a safety hazard for dogs, but there are various anti-slip methods that you can use to help your furry friend navigate them safely.’
Our LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tiles) and roll vinyl options provide a textured surface that increases friction between your dog’s paws and the floor, reducing the chances of slipping.
2. Joint protection and comfort for them
Unlike smooth floors, our PawSafe ranges of flooring are cushioned, reducing the shock impact on your dog’s joints when they walk or run. This is especially important for older dogs or those with arthritis. As Dr. Harris explains, ‘Softer, shock-absorbing flooring can relieve stress on a dog’s joints, which is important for all dog and especially dogs with mobility issues. This can make a world of difference in improving their comfort while moving around the house.’
3. Easy to clean and maintain for you
Not only does Floors for Paws provide the necessary traction, but it’s also easy to clean. Our flooring is designed to be non-porous and resistant to stains, so whether your dog is tracking in mud or an accident happens, cleanup is simple and quick and the floor is maintenance free.
4. Durability and longevity for you
So we can protect your dog from floors but can we protect your floor from the dogs? Another key benefit of our flooring is its durability. Floors for Paws is designed to withstand the wear and tear that comes with having pets. The durability of our products means they’ll look great for years, even with the paws of active dogs running over them.
Why smooth floors like hardwood or laminate are risky for dogs
While hardwood and laminate floors are popular for their aesthetic appeal, they present a number of challenges for dogs. These floors are typically too smooth, offering little grip and a high potential for slipping. Additionally, they are hard, meaning that if your dog does fall, the impact could cause injury. Hardwood and laminate floors can also become slick when wet, whether from a spilled drink, rain, or even from your dog’s paws after coming inside.
In comparison, Floors for Paws flooring options, such as our LVT and roll vinyl are designed to be more slip-resistant and provide that necessary grip. These floors help maintain your pet’s stability, reducing the risk of falls, slips, and joint pain.
Conclusion
You and your dog deserve a home that is both safe and stylish. At Floors for Paws, we combine the best of both worlds by offering flooring solutions that protect your pet’s health and improve their mobility but also offer you the durability and longevity you need with dogs. Our textured, cushioned floors ensure that your dog won’t have to deal with the painful and dangerous effects of slipping on smooth surfaces. Whether you’re dealing with a playful pup all the way through to an older dog with mobility issues, our flooring is the perfect solution.
Investing in Floors for Paws is investing in your dog’s comfort, safety, and long-term health. We believe that every pet should be able to roam freely in your home without worrying about slipping or falling. Visit us today to discover how our pet-friendly floors can transform your home.
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Explore our range of flooring options today. Contact Floors for Paws for a free consultation or to learn more about how our floors can improve your dog’s quality of life.
