November 21, 2024

Transform Your Space: Expert Dog-Friendly Home Tips That Will Change Your Life

By Ian Russell

How to Create a Dog-Friendly Home Every Owner Will Love

Introduction: Why Every Dog Deserves a Dog-Friendly Home

Bringing my first puppy home, a boisterous spaniel named Max, was one of the most joyful (and chaotic) experiences of my life. I quickly realised my house wasn’t quite ready for his boundless energy and curious nose. After a chewed slipper or two and some late-night cleaning sessions, I learned that creating a dog-friendly home requires a few clever adjustments.

If you’re a dog lover like me, you’ll know that your furry friend is more than just a pet—they’re family. That’s why I’ve put together these dog-friendly home tips to help you create a space that’s safe, comfortable, and welcoming for your dog while still being stylish and practical for you. Whether you’re bringing home a new puppy, caring for a senior dog, or just looking to make your home more dog-friendly, these tips will make life easier for everyone.

1. Start by Understanding Your Dog’s Needs

Before diving into redecorating, it’s important to consider what your dog really needs. These dog-friendly home tips work best when tailored to your pup’s personality, breed, and age.

Consider Their Personality and Breed

High-energy breeds: Create dedicated spaces for play and exercise.
Small breeds: Provide cosy, safe spots where they can retreat.
Seniors: Focus on comfort, accessibility, and warmth to support aging joints.

When Max was a pup, his endless curiosity meant I had to keep breakables out of reach and invest in baby gates. Now that my rescue greyhound Luna has joined the family, her love of soft surfaces means our home includes oversized beds in every room!

2. Choose Dog-Friendly Flooring

One of the most important dog-friendly home tips is to pick flooring that stands up to scratches, spills, and muddy paws. Dogs and carpets don’t always mix, so it’s worth considering alternatives.

Best Flooring Options for Dog Owners

Vinyl and laminate flooring: Durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean.
Tile: Great for kitchens and high-traffic areas.
Washable rugs: For carpet lovers, look for rugs with machine-washable covers.

3. Create a Comfortable Dog Zone

Dogs need their own space to unwind, just like us. One of my favourite dog-friendly home tips is to create a cosy “dog den” where your pup can relax.

How to Set Up a Dog Den

Choose a quiet corner away from busy areas.
Add a comfy dog bed or crate with soft blankets.
Include toys and chews to keep them entertained.

When Luna first arrived, I noticed she loved hiding behind the sofa when she needed a break. So, I added a soft bed and a blanket there, creating her favourite nook.

4. Pick Pet-Friendly Furniture and Fabrics

Your sofa can be stylish and practical—just follow these dog-friendly home tips for choosing furniture and fabrics that stand up to paws and fur.

Best Fabrics for Dog Owners

Leather: Easy to wipe clean, though it may scratch.
Microfibre: Durable and resistant to stains.
Slipcovers: Protect furniture and throw them in the wash when needed.

5. Organise Your Dog Supplies

Dogs come with a surprising amount of “stuff”—leads, toys, grooming tools, and more. Keeping these items organised is one of the most practical dog-friendly home tips.

Storage Tips for a Tidy Home

Use decorative baskets or bins to keep toys in one place.
Install hooks by the door for leads and harnesses.
Repurpose furniture like a sideboard or cabinet to store food and treats.

I recently added a woven basket to our living room for Luna’s toys. It keeps things tidy, and she loves rummaging through it to pick her favourites!

6. Set Up a Dog-Friendly Feeding Area

Feeding areas can quickly get messy, but these dog-friendly home tips will help you keep things clean and organised.

How to Create a Practical Feeding Station

Use spill-proof mats under bowls to protect your floors.
Invest in elevated feeders for large or senior dogs.
Store food and treats in airtight containers to keep them fresh and pest-free.

7. Keep Your Home Clean and Odour-Free

Keeping a clean, fresh-smelling home with a dog is entirely possible with the right tools. Here are my top dog-friendly home tips for tackling fur and odours.

Cleaning Essentials for Dog Owners

Pet hair vacuums: Designed to pick up fur and dander.
Enzymatic cleaners: Perfect for accidents and odour removal.
Air purifiers: Reduce allergens and keep your home smelling fresh.

8. Make Your Garden Safe and Fun

The garden is an extension of your home, and these dog-friendly home tips will ensure it’s a safe, enjoyable space for your pup.

Garden Ideas for Happy Dogs

Add secure fencing to keep them safe.
Create shaded areas for sunny days.
Avoid toxic plants like daffodils and foxgloves.

When we moved to a house with a garden, I built a small sandpit for Max to dig in—saving my flower beds from destruction!

9. Stimulate Their Mind and Body Indoors

Dogs thrive on mental and physical stimulation, especially on rainy days. These dog-friendly home tips will help keep your pup entertained indoors.

Indoor Enrichment Ideas

Use puzzle toys and treat dispensers.
Create an indoor obstacle course with cushions and boxes.
Play games like hide-and-seek or tug-of-war.

10. Dog-Proof Your Home for Safety

One of the most critical dog-friendly home tips is ensuring your home is safe for your pup.

Dog-Proofing Tips

Secure cabinets with cleaning supplies or medications.
Cover electrical cords to prevent chewing.
Use baby gates to restrict access to certain areas.

Conclusion: A Home Both You and Your Dog Will Love

Creating a dog-friendly home is about more than just keeping things clean—it’s about fostering a space where your dog can thrive and feel like part of the family. These dog-friendly home tips will help you strike the perfect balance between style, practicality, and comfort.

What’s your favourite tip from this list? Share your ideas or photos of your dog-friendly home in the comments below!