Sharing a home with a dog means loving moments, but sometimes also hair, muddy paws and a curious four-legged friend who goes exploring everywhere. Fortunately, there are many ways to furnish your home in such a way that it remains clean, safe and dog-friendly. With the right furnishings, you can ensure that your dog feels completely at home, while you enjoy a practical, clean and stylish home. Below we share tips for a dog-friendly interior.
1. Choose durable and dog-resistant floors
The flooring in your home takes a lot of abuse when you have a dog, from sharp nails to muddy paws. Some flooring materials are better able to withstand the heavy use of a dog household.
- Tiles and laminate: Tiles and hard laminate are a good choice because they are scratch-resistant and easy to clean. Dog paws and nails leave marks less quickly on them than on wood.
- Vinyl or PVC: Vinyl floors are water-resistant, sound-absorbing, and scratch-resistant. They are also gentle on your dog's paws.
- Avoid high pile carpet: Carpet can trap dirt, hair and odors. If you do choose carpet, a low pile carpet is easier to clean. Vacuuming a few times a week helps keep the carpet clean and fresh. Sprinkle a packet of baking soda over your carpet once a month, let it sit for an hour and then vacuum it up again. Baking soda removes unpleasant odors from the carpet.
2. Make room for a comfortable sleeping place
A place of your own for your dog is important for his comfort and safety. Make sure your dog has a quiet place where he can retreat and relax.
- Choose a sturdy basket or bed: Depending on the size of your dog, you can choose a dog basket, bed or cushion. Choose a bed that is washable, so you can easily keep it clean.
- Place the basket in a quiet place: Choose a place that is not in the hallway, so that your dog has a place to really retreat. Near the living room is ideal, because then he can be there without feeling rushed.
3. Use durable and washable fabrics
When your dog is a couch potato, hair, odors, and stains can quickly become a problem. Luckily, there are materials and fabrics that make it easier to keep your home clean.
- Choose removable and washable covers: Fabric sofas with removable covers are ideal because you can wash them regularly. Microfiber and leather are easy to clean and can withstand a knock or two.
- Plaids and rugs: Place a plaid on your dog's favorite place to lie on the couch or rug. You can wash it regularly, and it helps to keep hair and dirt to one place.
4. Provide storage space for dog toys and accessories
Dogs love to play, which often means your home is full of toys. By creating clever storage solutions, you can keep your home tidy without your dog losing his toys.
- Use baskets or bins: Place a sturdy basket or bin in the corner of the room where you can put all of your dog's toys. You can even try to teach your dog to put his toys back in the basket.
- Place a hook for the leash and harnesses: Provide a fixed place for the leash, collar and possibly the towel for dirty paws, for example near the door.
5. Secure dangerous places and objects
Just like with small children, it is important to block off or put away certain areas and items when you have a dog. This will create a safe environment and prevent your dog from accidentally hurting itself.
- Lockable cabinets: Many dogs are curious and can easily open cabinets. Make sure that dangerous products, such as cleaning products or medicines, are stored in lockable cabinets.
- Closing off stairs and balconies: If your dog likes to explore, it may be wise to install stair gates. This prevents him from going up or down the stairs unsupervised.
- Hide electrical cords: Many dogs, especially puppies, have a tendency to chew. Hide electrical cords so they are not tempted to chew on them.
6. Practical solutions for a dirty coat and muddy paws
Muddy paws and wet coats are inevitable, especially during rainy periods. With a few simple adjustments you can limit this mess and clean it up easily.
- Create a “dog station” by the door: Place a mat, a bowl of towels, and possibly a paw cleaner by the door to quickly clean your dog before he goes inside.
- Use a mat at the entrance: A sturdy doormat at the front door helps keep dirt and sand out. Choose a mat that is easy to beat out.
- Towels and a drying cloth: Always have a towel by the door to dry your dog off after a walk. There are special drying cloths and gloves for dogs that help to remove mud quickly.
7. Dog-friendly plants and accessories
A dog-friendly home also means paying attention to the accessories and plants you have in your home, as some plants can be poisonous to dogs if they nibble on them.
- Safe Plants: Plants such as the palm lily, areca palm, and banana plant are safe for dogs. Avoid poisonous plants such as the lily, monstera, and sansevieria.
- Sturdy accessories: Choose sturdy vases, cushions and other accessories that can withstand a knock or two. A swishing tail or curious nose can sometimes cause an accident.
8. Ventilation and air quality
Dogs can bring odors with them, especially when they have wet fur. Good ventilation and some air purification measures will keep the air fresh.
- Air purifying plants: Some plants help improve the air quality in your home, such as the rubber plant and the golden palm.
- Regular ventilation: Provide daily ventilation by opening windows so that fresh air can dispel dog odors.
- Air purifier: For those with sensitive airways, an air purifier with a HEPA filter can help keep the air fresh and clean.
9. Personal space for nutrition
To prevent water and food from being strewn around the house, it is useful to set up a special feeding area. A separate feeding corner also provides peace and structure for your dog.
- Food bowl in a fixed place: Choose a corner where your dog can eat and drink undisturbed. Use a non-slip mat to keep the food and water bowls in place.
- Easy to clean: Choose a stainless steel or ceramic feeding bowl, which is easy to clean and does not easily retain odors.
10. Give your dog time to get used to the layout
When you add new things to your interior, such as a new basket or a different feeding place, give your dog time to get used to it. Let him discover it calmly and reward desired behavior. This way he will feel more at home in the dog-friendly spaces that you have set up.
Conclusion: a dog-friendly home where everyone feels at home
With the right adjustments, you can create a dog-friendly home where both you and your dog feel comfortable and safe. A well-furnished home not only helps keep your home neat and clean, but also ensures that your dog feels at ease. By choosing sustainable materials, creating practical storage space and taking your dog's safety into account, you can enjoy your shared living environment together.
