When you want to liven up your home, indoor rugs are a great place to start. A new rug can protect hardwood floors, decrease foot traffic noise, and make your living space much cozier. However, the difficulty in choice comes when you need to pick a rug when you have dogs in the house. So what are the best indoor rugs for dogs?
Our furry friends are members of our families. As such, their comfort and safety matter too. The best rugs for dogs are easy to clean, pose little risk to your pooch, and are durable enough to withstand frequent use while also being comfortable and soft. To find out about our top 11 picks, read on with us today!
Top 11 Best Dog Indoor Rugs
Our top picks for durable indoor rugs for dogs that are easy to clean and safe for your pooch to run across. We also always recommend non-slip features to avoid injuries.
ReaLife Machine Washable Rug is machine-washable, comes with non-slip backing, is made with soft but low-piling material, and is lightweight for easy transport. These qualities put it at the top of our list!
| Product Name | Best Feature | Size | Material | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ReaLife Machine Washable Rug | Machine-washable | 7 sizes | Polyester | 5.0 |
| Mohawk Home Rug Pad | Resizeable | 13 sizes | Felt & vinyl | 4.9 |
| Gorilla Grip Soft Faux Fur Area Rug | Slip-resistant | 8 sizes | Faux fur | 4.8 |
| MaxRugr Area Rug | Cleaning tool | 6 sizes | Polyester | 4.7 |
| JONATHAN Y CTP106A-3 | Non-shedding | 9 sizes | Polypropylene | 4.6 |
| Fab Habitat Machine Washable Area Rug | Eco-friendly | 8 sizes | Polyester | 4.5 |
| CAROMIO Machine Washable Rug | Water-resistant | 6 sizes | Polyester | 4.4 |
| Perga Rugs Machine Washable Area Rug | Machine-washable | 5 sizes | Polyester | 4.3 |
| HT Design Rectangular Area Rug | Stain-resistant | 4 sizes | Polypropylene | 4.2 |
| Ophanie Rugs for Bedroom | Machine-washable | 3 sizes | Polyester & velvet | 4.1 |
1. ReaLife Machine Washable Rug – Abstract Modern – Beige
ReaLife Machine Washable Rug is the perfect addition to any pet-filled household. These printed rugs are machine-washable, making their care super convenient for pet parents. Its flat woven texture, made with recycled polyester, makes for a lightweight yet durable finish that can withstand high foot traffic, without the added risk of your dog’s nails catching on it. ReaLife’s rugs also feature a non-slip backing for superior grip on the floor, preventing dangerous slips and slides when your dog runs. Positive reviews note that the rug is softer and thicker than expected.
There are a few critical reviews for the design listed here. However, the few that do exist note the lack of flexibility of the rug. Some pet parents may struggle to load this rug into their washing machine, as the material could be more flexible. It does, however, spot clean well. The critical reviews also note that the non-slip backing is not as effective as it could be. Lastly, the large label on the back may leave a sticky residue that can be difficult to clean.
Pros
- Machine-washable
- Non-slip backing
- Thick and soft material
- Low piling
- Lightweight material
Cons
- May not be flexible enough for some washing machines
- Large label backing may leave a sticky residue
2. Mohawk Home 8 x 10 Waterproof Non-Slip Rug Pad
Mohawk Home’s Rug Pad is designed to stay in place while providing plush cushioning to you and your pets’ feet. This rug comes with superior moisture resistance, preventing any accidents from permeating through it and onto the floor. This pet-friendly rug also features a vinyl backing, preventing harmful slips and slides as your pooch runs about the home. It’s also easy to clean – just spot clean with a mild detergent to keep it fresh and looking new! Lastly, this rug comes in 13 sizes, so you’re sure to find one that suits your home décor. If it doesn’t quite fit your living space, you can even trim the rug using scissors to fit any shape or size.
The main issue among critical reviews is quality control. Some pet parents have received damaged or pre-used products through Amazon. Others have found that sizes don’t quite match up to the description.
Pros
- Made with felt and vinyl
- Made in the USA
- Vinyl backing for anti-slip quality
- Can trim to any size or shape
- Moisture-resistant
Cons
- Some issues with quality control
- The size may not fully match the description
3. Gorilla Grip Soft Faux Fur Area Rug
Gorilla Grip Soft Faux Fur Area Rug is the ideal child and pet-friendly addition for any busy family home. Its ultra-thick, high-pile inner foam layer offers double the comfort, making it great for pets with joint problems. Its durable backing also features hundreds of grip dots, preventing dangerous slips and slides as your pooch bounds about the home. As well as this, the Gorilla Grip Rug is machine-washable – no need to worry about spills and messes ruining your new décor! Lastly, this rug is highly versatile, available in eight sizes and a whopping 34 colors.
The main issue among critical reviewers is the slippery quality of the rug. Some pet parents say that the rug moves around too easily on the floor, making it possible for accidents to happen. Others say that it’s difficult to vacuum this product.
Pros
- Super soft faux fur material
- High-pile inner foam for superior comfort
- Durable non-slip backing
- Machine-washable
- Available in 8 sizes
- Available in 34 colors
Cons
- Non-slip backing may not stand up to frequent use
- May be difficult to vacuum dog hair from the product
4. Stain Resistant Machine Washable Area Rugs Runner for Hallways
MaxRugrs Rugs are a great addition to any pet-filled household. These polyester rugs are stain-resistant, ensuring that liquids cannot permeate through the material and into the floor. They are also machine-washable, making them simple and convenient to clean – perfect for the accident-prone or active pooch! As well as this, the rug is non-slip with its specialized rubber backing. Lastly, the product comes with a cleaning tool included to remove pet hair and other debris from your décor. Overall, this rug is a great option for pet parents of active and house dogs alike. Lastly, it comes in six sizes and three colors, so you’re sure to find an option that matches your needs!
The main issue among critical reviews is that the non-slip quality of the rug doesn’t stand up to frequent use. Some people find that it doesn’t stay in place as much as they would like. Others say that the rug isn’t entirely machine washable, as its quality may reduce after a few washes.
Pros
- Stain-resistant polyester material
- Machine-washable for easy cleaning
- Non-slip rubber backing
- Comes with a cleaning tool to remove pet hair
- Available in 6 sizes
- Available in 3 colors
Cons
- Non-slip quality may not stand up to frequent use
- May be difficult to machine-wash
5. JONATHAN Y CTP106A-3 Contemporary Indoor Area-Rug
JONATHAN Y CTP106A-3 rugs are durable, soft, and comfortable, making them perfect for your furry friends. Their low-pile polypropylene fibers don’t trap dirt or debris, making them pet-friendly and super easy to clean. You can easily spot-clean the products as well using a clean, dry cloth. As well as this, they are stain-resistant and non-shedding, keeping them looking fresh and new for longer. Lastly, this rug is available in two colors and nine sizes. All of these qualities put this rug on our list of the best indoor rugs for dogs!
One main complaint with this product is its inability to flatten after months of use. Some pet parents also say that the colors don’t match the advertised pictures. Lastly, some customers complain of a “chemical” odor coming from the rug.
Pros
- Low-pile polypropylene material
- Easy to spot clean
- Stain-resistant and non-shedding
- Available in 2 colors
- Available in 9 sizes
Cons
- Some issues with flattening quality
- May give off an unusual smell
6. Fab Habitat Machine Washable Area Rug
Fab Habitat Machine Washable Area Rug is an eco-friendly polyester rug, making it ideal for the environmentally-conscious pet parent. It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, so even your outdoor pup can benefit from this décor. Unique to this product is its handwoven material, made with skill and precision for extra durability. It’s both strong and hard-wearing, but soft and comfortable under your pet’s paws. As well as this, it’s stain-resistant and machine-washable according to the Amazon listing, so it’s great for mucky pups too. Lastly, this product is available in eight sizes and seven colors.
Some pet parents note that the product is not machine-washable as the Amazon listing describes. Rather, the label states to “hose off only” as it will not re-form after machine-washing.
Pros
- Eco-friendly polyester material
- Suitable indoors and outdoors
- Extra durable design
- Stain-resistant material
- Machine-washable (according to Amazon listing)
- Available in 8 sizes
- Available in 7 colors
Cons
- May not be machine-washable (according to the label)
7. CAROMIO Machine Washable Rug Stain Resistant Vintage Area Rug Non-Slip
CAROMIO Machine Washable Rug is made with low-pile premium polyester fibers, allowing for seamless placement in your home whilst keeping your pooch safe from injury. This rug is both stain-resistant and water-resistant, making it suitable for accident-prone pups. The machine-washable quality makes it even easier to clean too. Its non-slip backing is made with high-quality TPR to keep it from sliding as well. Lastly, this rug is available in six sizes and three colors. All of these qualities place this rug on our list of the best indoor rugs for dogs!
There are few critical reviews for this product. Those that do exist note that it can be difficult to clean with a vacuum and that it can fade faster than some other rugs.
Pros
- Low-pile premium polyester
- Stain-resistant and water-resistant
- Machine-washable for easy cleaning
- Non-slip backing for extra protection
- Available in 6 sizes
- Available in 3 colors
Cons
- May be difficult to vacuum clean
- Some issues with color fading
8. Perga Rugs Machine Washable Area Rug for Bedroom
PERGA Rugs are machine-washable, pet-friendly with their low-fuzz design, and made with high-quality polyester. This rug is machine-washable and easy to vacuum, making it ideal for mucky pups who love the outdoors. It’s also non-slip, offering extra safety for your active pooch who loves to run about the house. Lastly, this rug is available in three colors and five sizes.
Although this rug is non-slip, the manufacturer recommends using a rug pad for the best experience. In line with this, some reviews note that the rug slips too much for their liking.
Pros
- High-quality polyester material
- Machine-washable
- Non-slip backing for extra protection
- Available in 3 colors
- Available in 5 sizes
Cons
- Best used with a rug pad for extra sturdiness
9. HT Design Rectangular Area Rug for Living Room, Abstract Black/Red
Hometash’s Rectangular Rug is made with durable machine-tufted polypropylene and is easy to clean. The manufacturer states that the rug is stain-resistant, easy to clean, and super hygienic due to its ease of vacuuming. All of these qualities make it ideal for accident-prone dogs. It’s also highly durable and may be able to withstand frequent use by your pooch. Lastly, the Hometash Rectangular Rug is available in four sizes and 22 designs.
To date, there are very few reviews for this product. However, we note that this product does not come with a non-slip backing. This could put your pooch at risk of harmful slips and slides as they run across the material. Lastly, it may not be machine-washable. The listing does not claim whether it is machine-washable or not.
Pros
- Durable polypropylene material
- Stain-resistant
- Easy to vacuum
- Available in 4 sizes
- Available in 22 colors
Cons
- No non-slip backing
- May not be machine-washable
10. Ophanie Rugs for Bedroom
Ophanie’s Rugs are machine-washable, come with a non-slip durable base, and are made with eco-friendly polyester and velvet materials. We think you’ll love the higher-density faux fur finish of this rug with its non-shedding material. Its feel is super soft, making it perfect for both humans and pets with sensitive skin or allergies. Lastly, this rug is available in three sizes and seven colors.
Some pet parents say that this rug is difficult to clean, despite it being machine-washable. It may be difficult to lift stains and small objects from the fibers. Others say that the rug loses its shape after one wash. We note that the high-pile material could also pose a small risk to your pup’s nails if they get caught.
Pros
- High-density faux fur material
- Non-shedding
- Non-slip backing
- Machine-washable
- Available in 3 sizes
- Available in 7 colors
Cons
- May be difficult to clean
- High-pile material
11. AMIDA 3×5 Rugs for Entryway Grey Non-Skid Machine Washable
AMIDA 3×5 Rugs for Entryway are easy to clean, non-skid, and stain-resistant. All of these qualities make them great for you and your pup to use in your home! These rugs feature rubber dot backing for extra traction on the floor, preventing harmful slips and slides that could injure your energetic pooch. Furthermore, the high-quality Chenille yarn is soft and expertly woven to be low-pile, protecting your pup from catching their nails as they walk. Lastly, this product is available in two sizes and six colors.
As with some other rugs on our list, the main issue among critical reviews is the presence of lasting creases. Even with months of use, it appears that some pet parents cannot remove the creases from this product. This rug, although stylish and versatile, is not water-resistant, putting it at the bottom of our top 11 picks.
Pros
- Chenille yarn material
- Non-skid backing
- Stain-resistant
- Machine-washable
- Available in 2 sizes
- Available in 6 colors
Cons
- Lasting creases
- May not be water-resistant
What to Look For in an Indoor Rug for Dogs
When looking at indoor rugs for dogs, there are several helpful qualities to bear in mind. These include their ease of cleaning, their pattern, their durability, and their materials.
Easy to Clean
When looking for a dog-friendly indoor rug, one of the most important qualities is that it should be easy to clean. You will fare best with a product that can be thrown into a washing machine for your convenience. Some rugs will also be easy to spot clean using a damp cloth. Others will be stain-resistant and water-resistant, helping to prevent your pup’s accidents from damaging the material. Not all dog-friendly rugs are washable or stain-resistant, but if your pooch is prone to accidents, it pays to keep this quality at the top of your list when searching for an indoor rug for dogs.
Pattern
As well as matching your home décor, picking a rug with a design can pay off in the long run. Even though many dog-friendly indoor rugs are stain-resistant, there’s still a risk that your pup’s accidents could leave lasting stains. So, rugs with more complex designs can be forgiving of stains by camouflaging them. Other unavoidable accidents like vomiting may cause lasting odors and stains if they cannot be removed thoroughly. This applies to pet hair as well. Picking a darker rug for a light-haired dog can help to camouflage any shedding.
Durability
As your pup is an active member of the household, your indoor rug should be able to withstand frequent uses. This is especially important if your dog is prone to chewing on soft materials. A durable rug will be able to stand up to your dog running on it, chewing on it, and having accidents on it. Be sure to search for a product that is not too flimsy or made with shedding materials. If your rug sheds materials onto the floor, it may entice your dog to rip the fibers from it. It’s best to lean towards rugs with sturdy, non-slip backing and inner layers if your pooch is likely to have a go at them!
Material
When picking your new indoor rug, take its pile and materials into consideration. It sometimes pays to look for a low-pile rug because it’s more difficult for debris to cling to shorter pile rug fibers. This is especially important if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors. Your active dog is at a higher risk of bringing flea eggs and ticks home with them – a low-pile material makes it easier to remove these pests before they can pose a risk to your pooch. As well as this, high-pile rug fibers may snag on your dog’s nails as they run across them. Also, it’s best to lean towards materials that are easy to clean, like polyester or polypropylene. Products made using flatweave materials like sisal or jute may be more difficult to vacuum or spot clean.
Rug Pad
One of the most important qualities that make an indoor rug safe for dogs is its non-slip quality. Does the rug come with a non-slip backing of some kind? Look for rugs with rubber or dotted backing that will prevent harmful slips and slides. If your dog is particularly energetic, you don’t want them to run across the rug and fall, as they could injure themselves in the process.
What to Avoid When Looking for an Indoor Rug for Dogs
It goes without saying to avoid rugs that are difficult to clean, will show stains and pet hair, and slip around on the floor a lot. However, there are two other qualities to bear in mind: if the rug is fringed or made with shag material.
Fringed Rugs
While fringed and tasseled rugs look great as home décor, they pose a risk to mouthy dogs who like to chew. Not only can this quickly destroy the look of your new décor, but it can also pose a risk to your furry friend. Even dogs who don’t usually chew may be attracted to the loose threads of a fringed rug. These can pose a safety hazard and lead to intestinal blockages if your pooch swallows them.
Rugs With Tassels and Fringe – We love a good tassel as an accent in home decor, but tassels or fringe tend to become chew toys for mouthy pups who like to chomp. Not only can this ruin the look of your fug, but it can also become a potential hazard for your dog.
Shag Rugs
While shag rugs look attractive and feel cozy, their longer fibers tend to collect dog hair and dirt a lot easier than low-pile rugs do. This can make them more arduous to clean. More importantly, shaggy rugs pose a small risk to our furry friends. They are easier for pets to chew on or paw at, causing unsightly threads to be pulled. And, in doing this, your pet may sustain injuries by getting their nails caught in the loops of the rug. To be on the safe side, stick with a low-pile material.
Cleaning Tips for Indoor Rugs
Even a stain-resistant and water-resistant indoor rug for dogs may run into some issues. However, there are plenty of ways to maintain your rugs to keep them looking new and fresh!
Clean It Immediately
As soon as you spot urine, paw prints, or other stains on your rug, tend to it immediately. This reduces the likelihood that stains and odors will linger on your new décor. It is recommended to vacuum your rugs and carpets once a week to control pet hair. If you cannot remove pet hair effectively with a vacuum, consider using a pet hair removal tool before vacuuming. The care instructions for your rug will vary depending on the manufacturer, so always be sure to check there as well!
Use Pet Odor Eliminator
When buying a new rug or carpet, always be sure to arm yourself with a pet odor eliminator or a household remedy for bad smells. If you don’t have a specialist pet odor eliminator, baking soda is your next best weapon. After blotting up urine, paw prints, or other messes with a wet paper towel, spread baking soda evenly across the damp spot. Let the baking soda sit overnight and then vacuum thoroughly. Another method to remove pet odor is to use vinegar, a household staple. In a clean spray bottle, mix distilled white vinegar with water and baking soda. Shake it up thoroughly to mix these up, then spray onto the smelly stain. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes before blotting it up with a damp paper towel.
Call a Professional
If you have some tough stains on your new rug, a professional rug cleaner may be best equipped to tackle it. Check out local businesses in your area or ask around for recommendations.
Indoor Rugs For Dogs: FAQ
Have any more questions about indoor rugs for dogs? Feel free to check out our Frequently Asked Questions for more details.
The best type of rug when you have dogs is one that is low-pile, machine-washable, and non-slip. Your dog brings accidents, muddy paw prints, and shedding hair along with them – these qualities will make the rug easier to maintain and keep looking new and fresh!
Indeed, Ruggable rugs are made to be pet-friendly. They are machine-washable, stain-resistant, and water-resistant. These qualities make them easy to maintain in the face of your pet’s accidents, hair, and messes.
The best pet-friendly rugs will be machine-washable, low-pile, have a non-slip backing, and are easy to vacuum. Conversely, avoid rugs that are high-pile, less durable, and slippery.
Luxury vinyl flooring is one of the best options for a living room with dogs. A vinyl floor is easy to clean, sustains fewer scratches, and is less prone to moisture damage than some other materials.
To conclude, the best indoor rugs for dogs are easy to clean, low-pile, and non-skid.