10 Pet-Friendly Home Design Ideas

Creating a home that welcomes their boundless energy (and occasional mischief!) is a smart way to promote a happy, healthy life together.

Fortunately, you don’t have to sacrifice style for function. From choosing fabrics that stand up to claws to designing a cozy nook just for them, you can have your home be as pet-friendly as it is picture-perfect.

Monaco 28 Floor Plan, Front Garage Conventional Collection, Livingston Community, Calgary, Alberta

1. Choose Flooring That Can Handle Paws and Play

Flooring options like luxury vinyl plank or tile are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to scratches, so your home will look beautiful for years to come. You’ll want to avoid soft hardwoods or high-gloss finishes, which may show scratches more easily.

If you have an aging pet, use non-slip area rugs or mats wherever your animal walks or rests most often to provide traction and insulation.

Carpet can feel cozy underfoot, but it often traps hair, dander, and odors. Many pet owners prefer washable rugs instead—they provide the same warmth and softness while being much easier to clean or replace as needed.

The Orchards Community, Edmonton, Alberta

2. Use Pet-Friendly Fabrics

Your pet will inevitably find “their spot” in your home, whether it’s on the couch, a window seat, or your favorite chair. That’s why performance fabrics are an animal lover’s best friend (after your pet, of course). These materials are treated to resist stains, moisture, and odors, making cleanup quick and easy.

• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics, such as microsuede or micro-velvet, are known for their durability and stain-resistance. They are also resistant to pet hair and easy to clean with a damp cloth or vacuum.
• Crypton: The name may make you think of a superhero, and rightly so! This super-performance, synthetic fabric is nearly indestructible and engineered with a protective barrier that is resistant to stains, smells, bacteria, and muddy paws.
• Outdoor Fabrics: Outdoor fabrics, made from durable materials like polyester or acrylic, are specifically designed to withstand the elements. These fabrics are resistant to fading, stains, and moisture, making them a great option for pet owners.

Avoid loosely woven fabrics, chenille, or velvet, which tend to collect fur and can be difficult to clean. If you still want to have soft touches in your space, incorporate them through machine-washable throw blankets and pillow covers that can easily be swapped out when needed.

3. Go for Easy-Care Walls

Pets may rub along walls, leave the occasional muddy pawprint, or shake water everywhere after a bath. Choosing the right finishes will save you time and frustration while keeping your home looking brand new.

Opt for satin or semi-gloss paint finishes in high-traffic areas like hallways, the laundry room, and near pet feeding stations. These finishes are easier to wipe clean than flat or matte paint. Take your paint’s durability to the next level by investing in scrubbable paint for areas such as the mudroom, where messes are more common.

Artisan 4 Floor Plan, Artisan Portfolio, Brighton Crossings Community, Brighton, Colorado

4. Add a Dog Wash Station or Pet Spa

If you’ve ever tried to wash a muddy dog in the bathtub, you know it’s not always an easy chore. A dedicated dog wash station in the mudroom, laundry room, or garage makes bath time faster, cleaner, and easier on your back.

Include a handheld sprayer for targeted rinsing, a slightly raised platform to reduce bending, and slip-resistant flooring for safety. Built-in shelves or hooks can hold shampoos, brushes, and towels to keep everything you need within reach.

Paisley Community, Edmonton, Alberta

5. Create a Built-In Feeding Station

Scattered food and water bowls can be a tripping hazard and take up valuable space. A built-in feeding station keeps things tidy and stylish. These can be integrated into lower kitchen cabinetry, the end of an island, or a mudroom nook.

For extra convenience, consider running a water line to the feeding station so you can easily refill the water bowl. Pull-out drawers or shelves can hide the bowls, and nearby cabinetry can store food and treats.

Purcell 24 Floor Plan, Front Garage Collection, Livingston Community, Calgary, Alberta

6. Plan for Pet Storage

Just like the kids’ toys, pet toys often end up all over the house. Planning for dedicated pet storage keeps clutter to a minimum and makes it easier to grab what you need in a hurry.

Built-in cubbies, cabinets, and hooks in the mudroom can hold leashes, harnesses, and waste bags. A pull-out drawer with an airtight bin is perfect for storing kibble and keeping it fresh. Open top, decorative baskets maintain your aesthetic while keeping it easy to throw everything in for a quick cleanup.

7. Designate Pet Zones and Add Gates

Sometimes you need to keep your pet out of certain areas—like the dining room during meals or the front entry when guests arrive. Pocket doors, Dutch doors, or decorative half-height gates can provide separation without blocking light or airflow.

If your budget allows, go for a more stylish option like built-in gates that match your cabinetry or trim. These blend seamlessly into your home’s design while still giving you the functionality you need.

Brighton Crossings Community, Brighton, Colorado

8. Make Outdoor Time Safe and Easy

Just like people, pets need fresh air, sunshine, and room to stretch their legs. Make the most of your outdoor space by creating a secure area where they can run and play freely. A fenced yard is ideal, but even a smaller patio can be turned into a pet oasis with turf, shade, and a few of their favorite toys.

Some communities have access to shared green spaces or a neighborhood dog park. These spaces are perfect for giving your furry friend extra exercise while also connecting you with fellow pet-loving neighbors. Regular visits provide both physical activity and socialization, which can go a long way toward keeping pets healthy and happy.

9. Give Them Their Own Space

Like anyone else in your household, your pet deserves a place to retreat when they need space. Creating a dedicated area, such as a cozy bed, crate, or designated room, helps establish a sense of security and comfort for your pet. It’s a safe haven where they can keep their toys and relax when they feel overwhelmed by household activities.

Soft bedding or a sound machine are great additions to help block out stressful noises like fireworks or thunderstorms. If your pet struggles with anxiety, consider making this space slightly enclosed to give them an added sense of safety.

10. Keep it Clean & Safe

Even with the perfect flooring and fabrics, staying on top of regular cleaning is key. Pet hair can carry natural oils that attract dirt, so investing in a high-quality vacuum makes a big difference—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Cleaning regularly applies to your pet, too! The cleaner you keep your pet, the longer your house will stay clean. Trimmed nails protect floors and furniture from scratches, while routine brushing and bathing reduce shedding before it spreads through the house. The cleaner and more comfortable your pet is, the less time you’ll spend on deep cleaning.

Safety matters too. Pet-proof your home by securely storing household chemicals, medications, and plants that may be toxic. Conceal or secure electrical cords, and use baby gates to limit access to areas you’d rather keep off-limits.

Finally, take a moment to observe your pet’s habits. Do they love exploring the trash can, sneaking into the kids’ playroom, or chewing on small objects? A little extra attention to the spots that tempt them most will help you create a safer, more comfortable environment tailored just for them.

Designing a pet-friendly home isn’t about sacrificing style or comfort—it’s about creating a space that works beautifully for every member of your household, furry ones included. With the right materials, thoughtful features, and a little planning, you can enjoy a home that’s easy to maintain, safe, and welcoming for both people and pets.

Brookfield Residential’s commitment to building the best places to call home extends to all family members, including our pets. From innovative dog park designs to dedicated spaces within our pet-friendly homes, we’re incorporating modern features at every turn.

Start your journey to homeownership today with Brookfield Residential! Explore where we build and connect with our sales team when you’re ready to learn more. We’ll be expecting you!