If you’re looking for pet-friendly flooring, you can’t go wrong with porcelain tile. A recent article from This Old House points out that not only is porcelain tile moisture-proof, it’s also not prone to scratches.

Concrete can also be a good flooring choice. Epoxy grout (tile) or an epoxy finish (concrete) can help minimize the upkeep further.

Hardwood flooring – particularly oak, hickory, or Brazilian cherry – can also be a good options for pets. “Prefinished wood floors with a factory-applied aluminum oxide top coat resist scratches and dings best,” This Old House notes. “A matte penetrating-oil finish can disguise scuffs and is less slipper – just touch up nicks with a stain pen or putty.”

Vinyl and linoleum also can be a good low-maintenance option. However, frequent pet accidents eventually can become an issue with these flooring types since they are glued-down.

Some of the worst options are laminate (it can be prone to moisture damage and noisy with pet feet) and carpets and rugs (prone to staining).

Source: “Ground Rules for Dog-Friendly Flooring,” This Old House (June 2016)