Hardwood flooring can be one of the largest and most expensive home improvement projects you can undertake. Before you set your heart on a particular hardwood floor type, make sure you consider your lifestyle needs. Choosing hardwood flooring that can withstand your pets' wear and tear is essential in prolonging the lifetime of your floors' surface.

The hardwood floors that are best suited to your pet depends upon a few factors, including the size of your pet and your pets' habits. Large dogs (e.g. Labrador; Rottweiler) that like to run and jump indoors may require a denser hardwood floor type. Hardwood floors that rank higher up on the Janka Hardness Chart can usually withstand heavier wear with less damage than softer hardwood types (e.g. Chestnut; Leopardwood).

In addition to choosing a harder hardwood floor type, minimize floor damage by placing area rugs and mats in high traffic areas. Keeping pets' nails trimmed and sweeping on a regular basis can also help prevent surface scratches and dings. Note that even hardwood floors that rank high on the Janka Hardness Chart are still susceptible to damage as a result of standing water. It's important that you lay down mats under your pets' food bowls and in other water-susceptible areas.

Have more suggestions in regard to pet friendly flooring? Feel free to leave a comment at the end of this blog.