What Is The Best Type of Flooring For A House With Pets?

When you're a pet owner, your home has to cater not just to your family’s needs—but also to your furry companions. From muddy paws to sharp claws and the occasional accident, pets can take a toll on your floors. So, what’s the best type of flooring for a house with pets?

In this guide, we’ll break down the top flooring options, along with pros and cons for each and pet-friendly picks that balance durability, comfort, and style.

1. Laminate Flooring

✅ Pros:

• Scratch-resistant: Great for homes with dogs or cats that have long nails.

• Easy to clean: Spills and accidents can be wiped up without much hassle.

• Affordable: Often less expensive than hardwood or luxury vinyl.

• Durable:  Overall stronger than most similarly prices SPC flooring

❌ Cons:

• Moisture-sensitive: Not ideal if your pet has frequent accidents.

• Can be noisy: Nails may click against the hard surface.

Pet-Friendly Pick:

Mohawk RevWood
This waterproof laminate features an ultra-tough wear layer and All Pet Protection warranty, making it ideal for households with both dogs and cats.

2. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Tile (LVT)

✅ Pros:

• Waterproof and scratch-resistant

• Comfortable underfoot: Softer than laminate or tile.

• Low-maintenance: Great for high-traffic areas.

❌ Cons:

• Can be prone to dents: Heavier pet furniture or crates can leave marks.

• Lower resale value compared to hardwood.

Pet-Friendly Pick:

COREtec 
Both offer enhanced scratch and moisture resistance, with styles that mimic real wood or stone for a premium look.

3. Engineered Hardwood

✅ Pros:

• More durable than solid hardwood

• Attractive and timeless appearance

• Easier installation than traditional hardwood

❌ Cons:

• Still vulnerable to scratches and water damage

• Can be pricey

Pet-Friendly Pick:

Anderson Hardwood

Engineered wood with a tough finish like aluminum oxide. Look for options labeled as “pet-safe” and consider a matte or hand-scraped finish to help hide scratches.

4. Tile (Ceramic or Porcelain)

✅ Pros:

• Waterproof and stain-resistant

• Extremely durable—perfect for heavy pet traffic

• Cool underfoot: Especially beneficial in warmer climates.

❌ Cons:

• Hard and cold surface: May not be comfortable for pets to lie on.

• Can be slippery for energetic animals.

Pet-Friendly Pick:

Textured or slip-resistant tiles: Shaw Tile
Pair with washable pet mats or area rugs to soften the space and improve comfort.

5. Carpet

✅ Pros:

• Soft and cozy: Gentle on joints and comfortable for pets to rest.

• Quieter environment: Reduces nail clicking and noise.

• Economical: Usually cheaper to install 

❌ Cons:

• Absorbs odors and stains easily

• Can trap pet hair and allergens

Pet-Friendly Pick:

Shaw Pet Perfect Plus or Anderson Pet Perfect Plus Collections
Features built-in protection against pet accidents and is easier to clean than traditional carpet fibers.

Final Verdict: Best All-Around Flooring for Pet Owners

In recent years, carpet has evolved and become much much easier to clean and more stain and odor resistant, but it is still not as easy clean as any hard surface.  If your main concern is comfort, carpet will be the next choice and there are some options in the market.  On the other hand, if durability and easier maintenance are your main concerns, a hardsurface will be your best option.  There are different flooring options when it comes to hard surface.  Which option is the best option for pet owners depends on your budget.  Most economical options (below $3.00) would be laminate.  For mid-cost flooring option ($3.00 to $6.00 range), vinyl would be the best option.  For higher budgets, depending on the area, hardwood or tile is the best option.