Dogs and hardwood flooring do not go together. Unlike cat claws, dog claws never retract and easily scratch and scuff hardwood floors. Dogs with lots of hair between their paw pads can cause even more damage because they slip on hardwood flooring and dig their claws in. If your house features one or more canines, keep your wood floors looking beautiful with these tips.

5 Hardwood Flooring Protection Methods for Dog Owners

1. Work With Baby Gates

Section off hardwood flooring areas with baby gates, such as a formal living or dining room. If you do not like the look of baby gates, consider training your pet to avoid hardwood areas. Depending on the layout of your home, you may also be able to close doors to keep the dog off the floor. Because dogs don’t like slippery floors, they may stay off the floor without the use of baby gates or closed doors.

2. Trim Your Dog’s Nails

Trim and buff your dog’s nails regularly, so they do not get too long and inflict damage. Also consider purchasing nail clips, or plastic caps that cover dog nails to keep hardwood, upholstered furniture, and other surfaces throughout your home damage-free.

3. Use Rugs & Mats

Place runners on high-traffic hardwood areas to keep them free of scratches. Add backing material to the rugs to avoid human and canine slips and falls. If the dog’s bowls are on a hardwood kitchen floor, place a rubber mat underneath to protect it from food and water stains. Rugs also shield floors from acidic urine stains and odors.

4. Keep the Floors Waxed

Apply wax every six months or year depending on the degree of household traffic. Wax creates an effective buffer that reveals a lustrous shine. It also provides more traction, so your dog does not dig its claws in as much.

5. Schedule Professional Hardwood Refinishing

Get your hardwood professionally refinished if the damage has become too much despite your best efforts. Applying a strong, scratch-resistant finishing product fortifies your floors against dog claws and other damage so they maintain their timeless appeal.
 

Request refinishing services from Hardwood Rescue in Chesterfield, MO, to keep your hardwood flooring pristine. The company has served the Greater Saint Louis area for over 17 years and offers dustless sanding and refinishing as well as installations. All jobs are completed on time and within budget. Call (636) 532-5476 today for a free estimate or visit this National Wood Flooring Association member online for more service information. Enjoy additional maintenance tips on Facebook.