Dogs have a way of squirming into your heart and getting away with murder. Let’s face it, when your dog has been naughty but they look at you with those big, sad, loving eyes, all is forgotten. If you have a dog, you may worry about things such as your furniture. Obviously, you do not want your dog damaging your furniture, especially if it is expensive or new.
Some dogs, especially puppies, may end up doing this, so you try to train them not to go on top of it. Sometimes, you may give in as they jump on top and give you kisses! In the event you are someone who allows your dogs onto the furniture, let’s take a look at some of the best furniture for dogs. These materials will hopefully cause you the least amount of headaches!
1. Tightly Woven Fabric
If you have, or are about to get a couch with tightly woven fabric, then this could be helpful, since claws are less likely to get caught. The best furniture for dogs will be made with denim, canvas or a micro-fiber that is man-made.
In fact, it will be helpful even if you had a cat, since some people have both in their household. If you have a dog and are looking to get a new or used piece of furniture, try to get one that matches your dog. This way, it can be harder to see the hair. The ideal situation would be to have a dark-coloured dog and couch. This way, it is harder to see dirt as well.
2. Leather Furniture
For any dog owner (or pet owner, for that matter), leather must be the number one choice of furniture, hands down. Nothing, but nothing can beat it. Leather won’t snag claws and it is also durable. If there is some kind of accident, which can happen, it is easily wiped away. Dogs have an amazing habit of vomiting whenever you are in the bathroom. It is quite common for a dog to throw up, as any dog owner will attest to. If they have one such episode while your back is turned, at least it can be cleaned quickly and easily.
Dogs are also over the moon to see you, especially when you’ve been away (sometimes even for two minutes, bless them). There are some dogs that have a problem when they get so excited to see you. They may pee a little. If they are on your sofa, you would want it to be leather.
Genuine leather is probably the best furniture for dogs, since leather can age well and give it a unique look. It is more expensive than the man-made stuff, but it will also last longer and not have to be replaced as often.
3. Patio Furniture
While this may not be everyone’s cup of tea, you need to be aware that some patio furniture can be quite attractive and stylish. Have you ever considered having outdoor furniture indoors? Such outdoor furniture is strong and durable.
Patio furniture, if you are open to it, is the best furniture for dogs in the outdoors. Not everyone wants to have delicate sofas in their living room. There is also no law that says outdoor furniture cannot be used indoors. Consider this type of furniture if you have a dog, or dogs.
4. Consider Synthetic Materials
Try not to choose any natural materials, but instead, go for synthetic materials. Materials such as acrylic, nylon or high polyester are much easier to clean than natural materials. They can also withstand daily wear and tear much better. Whatever synthetic material you choose for your furniture, check the cleaning instructions.
Use the recommended cleaners, and consider a dry microfiber cloth to remove pet hairs. Certain breeds tend to shed more than others. No matter what breed of dog you have, removing their hairs from your furniture should be simple enough, except you may need to do it daily. The things we do for our dogs!
5. Slipcovers
One thing you can try, especially if budget is an issue, is slipcovers. Maybe new furniture is not in the budget at this time. Instead of worrying, get slipcovers that can be easily removed or put on. If the furniture you currently have is not considered ‘dog-friendly’, slipcovers may be your best bet. This way, they will take the brunt of your dog’s shenanigans. When visitors come over, you can easily remove them.
6. Patterned Fabric
Try choosing furniture that has a patterned fabric. This would be a better choice than one with a solid colour. A solid colour can show up your pet’s hair. It would not jump out so easily if it was a patterned fabric, so keep this in mind. This goes for stains as well.
7. Durable Furniture
If you have a dog, try to avoid furniture with fabrics that are considered fragile. These include materials such as silk, linen or wool, unless you are 100 percent sure that your dog will never get on top of the furniture. If you are not, steer clear of it.
Loose weave fabrics are also to be avoided. This can get caught in claws and over time, it can unravel! Tweed and corduroy should also be avoided. An open weave couch can really trap hair and dust. This can also lead to your couch having a bad smell.
When it comes to the best furniture for dogs, avoid high maintenance fabrics like velvet. If an accident were to occur, it will be costly to have it cleaned professionally. Velvet is also like a hair magnet. Suede is another that is best avoided, unless you have protective covers. While it does look good, trying to clean spots of liquid can bring you to your knees!
8. Dog Beds
You could always get your dog a little bed so that they lay there, instead of climbing onto the furniture. As mentioned, slip covers are a good idea, so is something with zips. This allows you to remove the covering from the cushion and clean it easily.
Also, try choosing low maintenance furniture, otherwise you’ll be spending all your time on cleaning it. Choose synthetic fibers to protect from stains and cuts. If you know your dog is going to be on the sofa, best to just cover it and avoid any problems. In the end, the best choice does appear to be leather.
