Many pet owners believe they have to choose between a stylish living room and a pet-friendly one — but that's not necessarily true. While it might require a bit more thought, finding a rug that looks great and holds up to paws, claws, and fur is absolutely doable if you know what to look for.
Hali director, Dan Swart weighs in on the advice around choosing a pet friendly rug for your home.
In reality, rugs that are suitable for households with pets often align with high-quality craftsmanship and timeless design. “We don’t subscribe to the idea that pet-friendly rugs are all function, no form,” says Dan. “If a rug is well-made, with premium natural fibers and hand craftsmanship, it will absolutely hold up in a busy household.”
When selecting a rug for a pet-inhabited space like the living room, the three most important factors are the rug’s material, construction, and color. These elements can make or break how your rug performs under daily wear and tear from furry companions.
Durability starts with how a rug is constructed. “Choose hand-knotted rugs made from 100% natural materials,” advises Dan. “These are the most durable rugs you can buy. Hand-knotted pieces are made to last, not just look good for a season. They’re breathable, easy to clean, and wear in beautifully over time, which is exactly what you want in a home with pets.”
Image: The Torben is one of Hali's recommended large living room rugs pefect for pet owners. Its a hand-knotted wool rug with a cut pile in mid-tones.
Cut-pile rugs, particularly those made from wool, are another smart choice. They’re gentle underfoot, pet-friendly, and tend to have a refined appearance that complements most interiors.
However, not all textures are created equal when it comes to animals. Loop pile or shag rugs, for example, are best avoided. “Loop pile rugs might look plush, but can become a playground for claws,” explains Swart. “Cats in particular love to dig into the loops, which can quickly pull and unravel.”
Shag rugs also pose a challenge in terms of upkeep — the long fibers trap fur and dirt, and they’re more prone to staining and damage, especially from scratching.
While jute rugs often come up in conversations around pet-friendliness, there are plenty of other (and often better) alternatives. “Prioritize natural fibers, especially premium hand-spun wool,” says Swart. “This is our go-to for pet-friendly homes.”
Image: Our Taza Collection is an excellent large living room rug for a home with pets, with its cut pile and choice of mid-tone colours
Though lower-priced synthetic rugs might be tempting, Dan warns against them. “If they’re made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene, viscose, bamboo silk, or art silk, they’re far less forgiving.” These materials are more likely to trap grime and show wear more quickly than their natural counterparts. “These are the real 'not pet-friendly' options,” he adds.
Even the best rug materials won't completely save you if the color doesn’t work with a pet-filled home. Very light-colored rugs — think cream or white — tend to show dirt and stains easily. On the other hand, dark rugs can highlight every speck of dust, fluff, or fur.
Rugs can — and should — still play a starring role in your living space, even if you share it with a few four-legged friends. A well-chosen rug can enhance your interior style while standing up to everything from muddy pawprints to daily zoomies.
If you want to invest in something that won’t need replacing any time soon, the best choice is a hand-knotted rug made from natural fibers, in a color and pattern that hides mess and wear. As Dan puts it, “Buy once, buy right, and your rug will love your home as much as your pets do.”
