Woof-ing for the best rugs for dogs? This comprehensive guide will help you find the perfect pet friendly rug, whether it’s to protect your floors from muddy paw prints (and accidents) or to cozy up their napping spot.
If you’re like most dog owners, your furry companion is more than just a pet–they’re part of the family. And just like any member of the family, you want the best for them.
We have researched and reviewed everything you need to know about finding the best fit rug, from the different considerations you should keep in mind to what materials to avoid. By the end of this guide, you’ll be confident to choose the best rug for your dog!
Keep reading:
Considerations in choosing the best rug for dogs
When it comes to finding the best rug for your dog, there are a few key considerations to help you create a healthy and pet safe environment.
Material
Choose a material that is easy to clean, durable and has stain and mold resistance. Natural fibers like wool and cotton are soft and plush for your dog to lie on, but can be more expensive and require more care. Conversely, synthetic fibers like polyester and propylene are toxic free, affordable and easier to clean, but may provide less cushioning.
Pile
Rug pile height varies between low to medium (½ inch or less) to high (½ inch or more). A longer pile may provide more cushioning for your dog, but will require more care to keep clean. A shorter or medium pile rug is best for homes with dogs as they are less likely to chew or claw at the fibers. Rug pads can make thinner rugs more comfortable and protect your floors.
Ease of cleaning
Rugs with a shorter pile or synthetic fibers are typically easier to clean than those with a longer pile or natural fibers. If you have a dog that is prone to accidents, you may want to choose a rug that is machine washable for easy cleaning.
Color
The color of your rug can also be important for both aesthetic and practical reasons. Light colors may show dirt and hair more easily, while dark colors can help to hide these things.
Pattern
The pattern on your rug can also be a factor to consider. Some dogs may be attracted to certain patterns or textures, while others may find them irritating. It’s best to choose a rug with a simple pattern or no pattern at all if you’re not sure how your dog will react. Small patterns also hide dirt and stains better.
Size
The size of your rug will depend on the size of your dog and the area you have available. You’ll want to make sure the rug is big enough for your dog to stretch out on, but not so big that it takes up too much space in your home.
So there you have it, a few things to consider when choosing the best rug for your dog. Ultimately, the best rug is the one that suits your needs and that of your pet.
Best Rugs For Dogs: Top 9 Picks
To help narrow down your search, we’ve compiled a list of the top 9 rugs for dogs. We considered factors like material, pile height, durability, ease of cleaning, and sizing when making our selections. And of course, we also took into account style – because let’s face it, your dog probably doesn’t care what color or pattern their new rug is, but you do!
- Best Overall
- Best Value
- Best Comfort
- Best Washable
- Best Indoor/Outdoor
- Best Natural Fiber
- Best Multi-Purpose
- Best Training Mat
- Best Door Mat
- Best Rug Pad (Bonus)
- Best Rug Cushion (Bonus)
Best Overall:Artistic Weavers Chester Boho Moroccan Rug
It is no wonder the Artistic Weavers Chester Boho Moroccan Area Rug is one of the most popular rugs around. It ticks all the boxes for the best rug for dogs (and pets): safe, functional, stylish and affordable. It is constructed of non toxic propylene, making it durable and easy to clean. With its medium pile, the rug offers a little more softness as compared to its low pile counterparts. Available in a variety of colors and sizes, the boho design is also sure to add design charm into any part of your home. It is recommended to vacuum the rug regularly with a low powered vacuum and spot clean stains to keep your rug looking newer for longer.
Specs
- Material: Propylene
- Pile: Medium
Pros
- Easy to clean and stain resistant
- Durable
- Affordable
- Pretty design with many colors, shapes and sizes
Cons
- May feel thin as compared to high pile rugs
- Reviews indicate that rug is not washing machine friendly
- Needs time to settle upon unboxing
Reviews
- “Great rug for the price. The only downfall— our new dog had a peepee accident and the moisture sort of distorted the shape (it raises up in certain areas bc it’s a bit thin) BUTTT it seems to be going back down over time.The upside to this, it SUPER easy to clean. With it being such a light colored rug, the pee (and later Poo) stain came out completely. No visible stains :)))” Kelsoo
- “Very cute and great for the price. It is a tad on the thin side so I recommend some kind of slip resistance, especially if you have hyper pets like I do. Over all I would purchase again for my other rooms.” Nicole Reed
- “I think this is a really nice rug for the money. Rugs can be VERY expensive and if you don’t want to invest $900+ on something your cat is going to ruin anyway , this is perfect. It’s neutral but adds a bit of style too. I got mine in the 5×7 black color and it’s like a faded black which is perfect. I have pets and this is great for pet owners. My cat also appreciates it’s camouflaging nature.” Amazon Customer
Best Value: Unique Loom Sofia Collection Area Traditional Vintage Rug
The Unique Loom Sofia Area Rugs are the best bet for an efficient straightforward rug. It is made of synthetic fiber and has a low cut pile, making them great for dogs. The rug is also very easy to clean and has a long lifespan. Though it is not as lush as natural fiber or thicker pile rugs, adding rug pad or cushions underneath will increase the cushiness immediately.
Specs
- Material: Propylene
- Pile: Low
Pros
- Easy to clean and stain resistant
- Durable
- Affordable
- Many colors, shapes and sizes
Cons
- Feels flat underfoot
- Vintage distressed design may not be appealing to some
Best Comfort: Gorilla Grip Thick Fluffy Faux Fur Washable Rug
Fancy the plushness of wool without hurting your pocket or pet? The Gorilla Grip Thick Fluffy Faux Fur Washable Rug is a wonderful alternative. Not only is it cozy and super soft to the touch, it is made of durable fibers which are machine washable. Unlike wool which is highly absorbent and can be hard to clean, you need not worry about accidents or removing dirt. It also comes with a rubber backing to prevent slippages.
Specs
- Material: Faux fur
- Pile: High
Pros
- Comfortable and fluffy
- Affordable alternative to wool
- Easy to clean as it is machine washable
- Many positive reviews from dog and cat owners
Cons
- Recommended to get darker or frosted tips to mask dirt
- Reviews recommend a rug pad or cushion for added cushioning.
- Some reported shedding of loose fibers which will reduce or stop over time.
Reviews
- “Bought this as a place for our dogs to lay instead of buying multiple pet beds or laying on the tile. They love it! I bought the 3×5 and it’s big enough for a German Shepherd. Kids love it too! It’s beautiful, soft, plush, and stays in place! Does not skid like other rugs. These photos are after the first wash, as you can see it survived a cold wash and air drying. Did not put it in the dryer as instructions say to lay out to dry. Will probably buy a larger one whenever this one starts to show wear.” Amazon Customer
- “ People say they shed all over their homes. Both of mine do not. I have 5 animals and a baby who frequent these rugs. They love laying and crawling on these rugs. I put a 1/4 inch carpet pad under both and they are awesome to lounge and walk on. I use a cheap vacuum which I bought on Amazon for $30 and it gets it clean of crumbs and pet hair easily. The rug hair stays on the rug. Lastly, both rugs were ordered separately and shipped to Alaska. Both rugs only took 4 days from order date to arriving on my front porch. I am very happy with these rugs.” Chris
Best Washable: Peach Ria Geometric Washable Area Rug
The Peach Ria Geometric Washable Area Rug is ideal for dogs, especially for dogs that pee. Not only is the rug spill and stain resistant, it is made of hard wearing polyester, perfect for high traffic households with kids and pets. It also comes to dark or brighter geometric designs which will mask dirt or mud better. Best of all, it launders easily with cold water. It is recommended to line dry or without heat on an air-only drying cycle. A low heat iron can be utilized if needed.
Specs
- Material: Polyester
- Pile: Low
Pros
- Many design options: colors, shapes and sizes
- Easy to clean and dry
- Durable material
- One piece design fold/unfolds easily
- Versatile for different areas of the home
Cons
- Might feel thin underfoot
Reviews
- “Love this rug so much I ordered a second rug in a different size for another room! Good quality; as advertised— a perfect addition to our home!” Tamlee
- “I luv the colors in this rug. Subtle and yet vibrant. So far works well with my dog.” Toni
Best Indoor/Outdoor: nuLOOM Wynn Braided Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug
The nuLOOM Wynn Braided Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug is the simple solution that can help to keep your floors clean and your dog happy. Designed to stand up to heavy traffic and messy pets (and children), the hardwearing construction can withstand damp paws and shedding fur. The easy to clean surface means that you won’t have to spend hours vacuuming or shampooing and mild stains can be easily hosed down. Aesthetically, the beautiful braided weaves bring a rustic natural feel into the surroundings.
Specs
- Material: Propylene
- Pile: Medium
Pros
- Durable material
- Easily hosed down
- Versatile for indoor/outdoor function
- Beautiful design
- Variety of colors and sizes
Cons
- May contain temporary creases on unfolding
- A little pricey compared to other synthetic rugs
Best Natural Fiber: nuLOOM Rigo Hand Woven Farmhouse Jute Area Rug
It is easy to see how the nuLOOM Rigo Hand Woven Farmhouse Jute Area Rug will make your home look like it’s straight out of a magazine. This stylish handwoven rug adds old world charm with sophistication and is relatively inexpensive. Jute is also durable and traps dust and dirt very well, making them a great choice for busy households.
However, you might wonder – are jute rugs good with dogs? Unlike synthetic fibers, jute is not stain-resistant, so spills and accidents can quickly ruin the look of your rug. Jute rugs also tend to shed more than other types of rugs. Opt for a runner rug if you want the look and function without the hassle of shedding.
Specs
- Material: Jute
- Pile: Low
Pros
- Stylish and durable
- Environmentally friendly
- Durable
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Need for low powered vacuuming
- Can expect shedding of loose fibers
- Due to its natural fibers, creases take time flatten when opened
Reviews
- “I bought two of these rugs six months ago to help pick up dirt in high traffic areas. I wanted to leave a review after a good bit of use. The rugs themselves are fine. Not the high quality jute I expected but also they were pretty cheap so I can’t complain! They do the job! I have 3 dogs and a toddler and my house has substantially less dirt. I mopped the hardwood floors once this month and they weren’t even dirty! The mop picked up nothing! When I pick up the rugs there’s tons of dirt in and under the rug. They do their job! The rugs did start to fall apart about a month ago. The hems are coming away from the rug so I’m bummed about that but again, cheap rugs in high traffic areas.” ST
- “Came nicely wrapped .. a lot softer than I was expecting .. great quality for the price especially.. very pleased looks great and our pup loves it too .” Tami
Best Multi Purpose: ThermaNAP Dog Blanket Mat
Specifically designed for pets, the Furhaven ThermaNAP Dog Blanket Mat is a safe, electricity-free alternative to keeping our pet buddies toasty and snug. Equipped with a layer of mylar material that reflects body heat and waterproof interior coating to protect against dirt or spills, you can confidently use this thermal blanket as a throw, mat or car set cover. It is also machine washable for easy care.
Specs
- Material: Velvet
- Pile: Low
Pros
- Multipurpose
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy care machine washable
- Chew proof reviews
Cons
- Highly popular so not all colors or sizes are available
- Lighter colors show dirt
Reviews
- “Our dog has Cushings disease and it makes her and her beds smell really bad. This rug is easy to wash and dry and doesn’t hold the smell like her other beds. It doesn’t slip around when her overweight body gets up and she loves it. I’m grateful for a good solution for her.” Kah
- “My dogs will destroy any bed I give them. I have lost a lot of money trying to find a bed for them that they will not destroy. This one is perfect. It’s flat but yet soft and I was able to secure it under the dog gate I use so they can’t pull it out. There’s no incentive to chew on it. My Maltipoo in the photo is 19 inches long and I ordered the small size.” Belle
Best Door Mat: Gorilla Grip Soak Stopper Absorbent Indoor Chenille Doormat
Want a trustworthy and soothing welcome rug to capture mud and moisture from muddy boots and paws and keep your floors clean from unwanted messes? The Gorilla Grip Soak Stopper Absorbent Indoor Chenille Doormat is the answer to all of your problems! It is made with heavy-duty chenille, which helps absorb excess moisture and prevent seepage onto the flooring. It is perfect for pet owners as it is machine washable and dries quickly.
Specs:
- Material: Chenille
- Pile: Low
Pros
- Highly absorbent
- Trusted durable quality
- Effortless to clean and dry
- Adorable designs with many sizes
Cons
- Low color quality
- Might slip around on tiles
Reviews
- “We love these so much, we have recommended them to anyone with pets. It’s great for when they walk in from outside – they always have SOMETHING on their feet. This stops it in it’s tracks. You’ll find chunks of dirt or clumps of grass IN the rug, but not in your house, so woo! I call that a win. We now have one for outside of the dog’s crate, and one at both entrances. I think it would be great for folks with cats and kitty litter. It keeps it all right there. Then we just take it outside and shake it out. I haven’t washed them yet.’ Steph D
- “I have a Corgi, Aussie & German Shepherd all with fluffy paws constantly going in and out and this rug by my back door has been a GAME CHANGER!! Buy it now!! Buying another in a bigger size bc it’s just that good!” Kelsey Lynn
Best Reusable Training Mat: Sinco Pet Reusable Pee Pad
A great eco and pet friendly option you’d want to consider is the Sinco Pet Reusable Pee Pad. Made with four layers of materials and an anti slip mat, it is built for absolute comfort and absorption. It is highly suited for dogs with incontinence issues as it has a waterproof bottom layer that can withstand any amount of liquid and dirt. It is also machine washable, making clean up easy as pie. The pads also come in a variety of sizes so they can accommodate any sized dogs. Alternatively, if you prefer a non fuss method, there are disposable dog training pads.
Specs
- Polyester
- Pile: Nil
Pros
- Waterproof and non-slip
- Versatile eco friendly rug
- Machine washable
- Very comfortable
Cons
- May take longer to air dry
Reviews
- “This pad has been amazing! I wanted to wait a few weeks to use it before giving a review. It’s absorbent, very large, and durable. It is also soft and easy to clean. You can wash it when needed. The smell comes off easily. The design is very beautiful. I love the paw prints. It has been a huge help for our new 6 week old puppy! Our 1 year old cat + 2 month old kitten have also enjoyed it in their play areas. We even bought two!” Timothy Dent
- “I was hopeful but doubtful that this large pad would work in my stacked washer/dryer. I’ve had bathmats that failed. BUT IT WORKS WELL!!! This pad makes puppy’s playpen sanitary and easy on the eyes. It is all I needed it to be and more! (It is not the perfect ‘potty’ training tool as it is large enough to give puppy an excuse, but that is not a flaw in the pad, but my methods). I bought smaller pads as well.” Lori S buley
Best Rug Pad: Veken Non Slip Rug Pad Gripper
Veken’s Non Slip Rug Pad is perfect for any type of floor, whether it be wood or ceramic. The signature grip will keep your rug in place and protect your floors from getting scratched by furniture pieces or itchy nails! Not only do they come at affordable prices they offer different sizes to match your rug. They can also be effortlessly trimmed with a pair of household scissors.
Specs
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride
Pros
- Secure rugs to prevent slippage
- Extra protection and cushioning
- Can also be used for futons, seat cushions and mattresses
- Alternative to stick on tape or anchors
Cons
- Not for use on certain surfaces such as carpet, vinyl, lacquered, acrylic, natural stone, porous, concrete or heated floor.
Reviews
- “My 90 pound Doberman runs and plays and without this rug slip on our rug was useless as it was always rolled and slipped maybe 15 times a day. As soon as we put this down I knew the real test would be how it stood up to my dog running on it. It stays perfectly definitely the best thing I’ve bought on Amazon this far” Tony
- “Works great! Got one for the rug in the foyer that usually becomes a crinkled mess when our dog gets the zoomies (dog parents, you know). Well today we put it to the test (due to getting an ice cube as a snack) and the rug DID NOT BUDGE!5 stars!” Steph
Best Rug Cushion: RUGPADUSA Protective Cushioning Rug Pad
The RUGPADUSA Protective Cushioning Rug Pad is an extra buffer and cushion for your rug and floor. Anchored by heavy furniture or rugs, it’s not meant to be used for anti-slip purposes. This pad comes with different thicknesses and sizes so you can choose the level of comfort you need.
Specs
- Material: Felt
Pros
- Extra plush cushioning and protection
- Additional sound absorption and insulation
- Eco friendly construction – no glue, pvc or latex
Cons
- Not anti slip
- Not for use on certain surfaces such as carpet, vinyl, lacquered, acrylic, natural stone, porous, concrete or heated floor.
Reviews
- “Rug is softer and nicer to sit or stand on, easy trim with a box cutter and measuring tape” J Foster
- “Thick rug pad perfect for our 9 x 12 rug. It’s only held down by one sofa but so far no slippage. It is soft on foot, but not ULTRA cushy. When paired with our medium-pile rug it’s soft enough for our little one to crawl and play on.” Ankar Dhillon
Which rug should you avoid?
Not all rugs are created equal. These are some types of rugs and materials you should keep in mind and avoid.
1. Shag or high pile rugs
Shag rugs or rugs with high pile ( ½ to ¾ inch) may be luxurious and fluffy but are not the best choice for homes with pets. The long, shaggy fibers are the perfect place for dog and cat hair to collect, and they’re also a magnet for shedding pet dander. And if you have a dog breed that is accident prone or difficult to potty train, those shaggy fibers are the perfect place for urine to seep in and be difficult to clean. In addition, shag rugs can be difficult to vacuum, and the long fibers can become tangled around your vacuum cleaner’s brush roll, potentially damaging the vacuum.
However, if you do choose to purchase a high pile rug, be sure to find one that is machine washable or vacuum it regularly on low power. Bonus tip: Keep your pet’s nails trimmed!
2. Rugs with fringe or tassel (aka chew toy)
Fringe or tassel rugs may look pretty and add sophistication but similar to shag pile rugs, they are not highly recommended for homes with dogs. Dogs love to chew on things, and the fringes of a rug can be tempting (and dangerous) for them to nibble on. If Zoey is a puppy and a chewer, it’s best to steer clear of rugs with fringes.
3. Rugs with looped holes
Looped carpets are often left as loops in their woven state and not sheared straight like cut piles. Commonly made from nylon, wool or olefin, curious pets may be tempted to tug at the loops of the rug, which can loosen the threads and cause the rug to unravel. When selecting a natural fiber rug, opt for flat or power loomed weaves as pet-friendly alternatives.
4. Light-colored rugs
The light colors can show dirt and stains more easily, and they can be difficult to keep clean. In addition, light colors can make pet hair more visible, making it appear that your rug is shedding more than it actually is. If you have a light colored rug, be prepared to vacuum and shampoo it on a regular basis. Dark colors are a better choice for homes with pets because they are more likely to hide dirt and hair. In addition, dark colors don’t fade as easily from exposure to sunlight. So if you have a pet, go with a dark colored rug.
5. Vintage rugs
Many people love vintage rugs for their beauty and uniqueness, but they are often made of delicate materials like viscose or silk which can be easily damaged by picking or chewing. In addition, vintage rugs may not be as stain or dirt resistant as a new rug. As a result, vintage rugs may require more care and attention, making them less suitable for homes with pets.
6. Rugs with glued on backs
Rugs with glued on backs especially tufted rugs are not as durable as rugs that are heat set or woven, and they can come unstuck over time especially if your pet likes to scratch or chew. In addition, the glue used to adhere the backing to the rug can be toxic to pets if ingested.
FAQ
How do I choose a pet friendly rug?
When it comes to choosing a pet friendly rug for your home, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
- Opt for materials that are durable that can withstand some wear and tear (which is nearly impossible to avoid with a dog in the house).
- Go for easy to clean or washable rugs as accidents are inevitable.
- You’ll want to choose a rug with a short or medium pile – longer piles can be tough on your dog’s nails and can also be a magnet for shedding fur.
- Select a rug in darker colors or with patterns color- lighter colors tend to show dirt and grime more easily, and no one wants their home to look like the dog park.
What kind of rug will dogs not pee on?
While there’s no guaranteed way to stop a dog from peeing on a rug, there are some things that can help prevent or deter it from happening:
- Use of enzymatic cleaners to clean up the pee. This will help break up the enzymes from the pee trapped in the rug and prevent the dog from going back to pee or mark its territory.
- The use of vinegar such as white vinegar or apple cider vinegar on the corners to turn off your pet from the rug. They can also be used as a natural alternative to chemical spot cleaners.
Are wool rugs durable with pets?
The answer really depends on the type of dog or pet you have. While wool has many benefits such as its hypoallergenic properties, comfort and durability, it is also prone to shedding and absorbing stains. As such, while wool may be better for pets with health issues or are older, they might not suit hyper easily excited pups.
Wrap Up
So there you have it, everything you need to know about finding the best rug for your furry companion. While there are a few types to avoid altogether, there are plenty of safe and stylish rugs on the market that both you and your pup will love!
Flat weaves or low-pile rugs made from propylene or polyester are a safer choice – they’re durable, easy to clean and less likely to cause problems for your dog. Natural fibers like wool and jute are generally a good bet, although you’ll want to avoid shaggy styles that can trap dirt and debris. As for color and pattern, it’s best to stick with solid colors or simple designs that won’t attract too much attention.
Happy spotting and fetch with confidence! We hope you’ve found this article helpful. Thank you furry much for reading!