Remember when pet furniture was strictly about function and not much else? Well, times and tastes have changed. Today’s pet owners want furniture that enhances their home’s aesthetics and is dually functional for both them and their pets.
Of course, many pet owners refer to their dogs, cats and other pets as members of the family. As such, the concept of humanising the pet industry is bringing more options for dog lovers to the forefront. From the right furniture protection to owner-friendly furniture, here’s what to look for in dog-approved furniture that will last.
Protect your furniture
Regardless of the type of furniture you buy, it needs the right protection to be dog-friendly. With this in mind, make sure to protect it with the right covers and materials from the start. Dog lovers that snooze with their pooch will need a comfortable, reliable mattress that will prevent them from tossing and turning all night.
But pet owners also need a durable mattress cover to protect it from scratches, fur and dander. The same thing goes for your couch. Choose a slip-cover that’s easy to wash and guards against your dog’s nails and fur. Microfibre or cotton canvas slip-covers are easy to clean up, durable and not too expensive to replace.
Choose the right fabrics
If you’re not interested in seeing slip-covers all around your house, then choose the right fabrics for your furniture and rugs that will stand up to the wear and tear of dog ownership. Microfibre and cotton are good places to start, but you can also opt for more durable leather for dogs that aren’t prone to destroy furniture.
Conversely, owners with especially overzealous and active dogs who love playing outside may need an option like Sunbeam fabric. Commonly found on outdoor furniture, the fabric is durable and easy to clean. And, the good news is there are plenty of fabrics, colours and designs from which to choose, allowing you to still embrace your favourite aesthetic.
Add dog-friendly accents
It’s not just the furniture that makes your home feel welcoming – it’s those little accents, too. Durable throw pillows, blankets and rugs are perfect accents to enhance a dog-friendly home. But what about rugs that tend to attract fur and take a beating from happy, little paws?
Cowhide is surprisingly dog-friendly and repels fur, keeping it looking new and fresh. There are also a variety of washable rugs on the market that can be thrown into the washer in a pinch. Choosing brightly coloured patterned rugs can also draw the eye away from any chew or claw marks and keep the focus on your home.
Make your dog furniture owner-friendly, too
There are more ways to make a home doggy-friendly than getting creative with your made-for-humans furniture. Instead, explore dog furniture that’s also human-friendly. For example, a wooden dog crate cover can double as a bench for an owner to sit down after a walk.
Simply place it at the end of your bed or in a hallway so your dogs can snuggle with it with their favourite cushions and blankets. Coffee tables with a customised area underneath can also double as a dog bed with the right pillows to make it pet-friendly.
The ball is in your court
With so many options on the market, it’s not difficult to transform your home into a dog-friendly oasis that still aligns with your home’s aesthetic. From furniture protection to pet-enhanced accents, embrace your home’s new dog-friendly style.
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