Adam Robertson, Managing Director at Urbane Living, shares his expert advice on selecting wood flooring that stands up to muddy paws, scratches and everyday family life.

When choosing flooring, my advice is always to think long term. Flooring forms the foundation of a room and is one of the most expensive finishes to replace, so it's important to select something that will stand the test of time both aesthetically and practically. Pets can be tough on surfaces, whether it's muddy paws, scratches from claws or the occasional accident, so choosing the right flooring can make a huge difference to both the appearance and longevity of your interiors.

Choose engineered wood over solid wood

For homeowners who love the look of timber flooring, engineered wood is often the most practical choice. High quality engineered wood offers excellent stability and resilience, making it particularly well suited to busy family homes with pets. It's also less susceptible to movement caused by fluctuations in temperature and humidity, making it a reliable long term investment.

Opt for matte and textured finishes 

When it comes to finishes, I would recommend matte, brushed or lightly textured surfaces. These help disguise minor scratches, dust and paw prints far more effectively than highly polished floors, and also provide better grip for dogs. Smooth, hard floors for example, can be difficult for older dogs or larger breeds to walk on comfortably, which is something many people don't consider until it becomes a problem. Glossy finishes tend to show every mark and can quickly lose their pristine appearance in a home with pets.  

Mid toned woods work best

Mid toned oak flooring is often the sweet spot for pet owners. Very dark floors can highlight pet hair, dust and scratches, while extremely light floors can show muddy paw prints more readily. Natural oak tones offer a practical balance and remain timeless from a design perspective.

What to avoid

If durability is a priority, avoid softer timber species that can dent or scratch more easily. Oak remains one of the most popular choices because it combines beauty with excellent wear resistance, making it well suited to busy households.

Highly polished or high gloss finishes are best avoided in pet friendly homes. They may look stunning in a showroom but will show every scratch, footprint and smear in real life.

Consider wider planks

Wide plank flooring can be particularly beneficial in family homes because there are fewer joins and gaps where dirt, dust and pet hair can accumulate. The result is a cleaner, more seamless appearance that is also easier to maintain.

Think long term

A truly pet friendly home doesn't mean compromising on style. The best interiors balance practicality with beautiful design. Investing in quality materials, durable finishes and timeless colours will ensure your home remains both elegant and functional for years to come, no matter how many four legged family members you have.