We love our pets. They’re family, after all. But let’s be honest, they can also be a little… chaotic.

From muddy paws to scratch-happy claws, life with pets presents a unique design challenge. The good news? You don’t have to choose between a stylish space and a pet-friendly one. With the right materials, thoughtful planning, and a few smart upgrades, you can have both.

Let’s explore how to create a home that’s comfortable, functional, and beautiful for both you and your furry friends.

Start with the Foundation: Durable, Pet-Friendly Flooring

Floors take the brunt of pet life: claws, spills, fur, and the occasional “oops.” That’s why your flooring choice makes all the difference.

• Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and tile remain top picks for pet owners. They’re durable, waterproof, and easy to clean, all while offering stylish finishes that mimic wood or stone.
• Engineered hardwood can also work beautifully with pets when finished in matte or wire-brushed textures that hide scratches.

Avoid soft woods (like pine) or glossy finishes, which show wear quickly. For extra coziness, layer washable rugs in high-traffic areas. They protect your floors and make cleanup easier when muddy paws strike.

Choose Performance Over Perfection: The Right Fabrics Matter

If your pet loves the sofa as much as you do, fabric choice is everything. Performance fabrics like Crypton, Sunbrella, and Revolution are built for real life:stain-resistant, durable, and easy to clean. They also come in beautiful textures and tones, so you won’t have to sacrifice aesthetics.

Leather and faux leather are also great options since fur doesn’t cling and spills wipe away easily. If you prefer a softer look, microfiber and velour provide plush comfort with less maintenance.

Avoid silk, chenille, and natural velvet as they are magnets for fur and prone to snags.

Built-Ins for the Win: Design with Pets in Mind

The smartest pet-friendly homes integrate pet features right into the design.

Think:

• Built-in feeding stations tucked into kitchen cabinetry

• Integrated pet beds under benches or in mudroom cubbies

• Hidden litter box enclosures that blend seamlessly into millwork

• Pet showers or rinse stations in mudrooms or garages

These small touches make daily routines smoother and keep your home looking intentional, not cluttered.

Durability Meets Design: Furniture and Finishes That Last

When selecting furniture, durability doesn’t have to mean boring. Look for solid wood or metal legs instead of soft materials, and choose medium-tone finishes that disguise wear.

In high-paw areas like entryways, tile wainscoting, or washable wall panels add personality while protecting from splashes or scuffs. For an elegant, pet-proof upgrade, try semi-gloss paint or wallpaper with a wipeable finish.

Layered Comfort: Rugs, Throws & Lighting for a Cozy Feel

As the days get shorter, cozy layers make your home feel warm and inviting for both you and your pets.

1. Rugs, throw blankets, and pillows add warmth and texture while protecting your furniture. Washable, low-pile rugs are ideal for homes with pets.

2. Lamps and accent lighting create flexibility, allowing you to keep things soft and ambient in the evenings.

3. Plants, books, and art bring personality and story to your home, helping it feel lived-in (and loved).

Small touches make a big difference when you’re curling up on the couch with your furry friend after a long day.

Pet-Safe Cleaning: Keep It Fresh and Healthy

Even the most stylish home loses its charm if it smells like “wet dog.” Regular cleaning is key — but so is using safe products.

Michelle recommends non-toxic, pet-safe cleaners, such as enzyme-based sprays and vinegar-baking soda solutions. Skip anything with bleach or ammonia, and look for fragrance-free or naturally scented options that won’t irritate sensitive paws or noses.

Bonus tip: Keep washable covers on sofa cushions and pet beds for easy cleaning. You’ll thank yourself later.

Design for Joy and Real Life

A pet-friendly home doesn’t have to mean dull, industrial finishes or constant cleanup. When you design with both beauty and function in mind, your space feels more like you — just with a few extra paw prints.

“Good design isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating spaces that work beautifully for the way you actually live — pets and all.” ~Michelle Murphy

So go ahead, let them nap on the sofa. With the right design choices, your home can stay stunning and pet-approved.

Need Help Designing a Pet-Friendly Home That Still Feels Luxurious?

MMID specializes in homes that blend style, comfort, and everyday functionality, whether that includes kids, pets, or both.

Contact MMID today.