How to Design a Dog-Friendly Home – Without Giving Up on Style and Order
- מאיה שינברגר
- Feb 18
- 3 min read
Dogs are part of the family—but unlike us, they don’t ask whether the sofa is too light, if the rug is too delicate, or if the kitchen is covered in fur. The good news? You can design a home that looks amazing and still works for your dog—without giving up on comfort, order, or aesthetics. So how do you do it? Here are some practical tips for smart design that both you and your dog will love.
By Maya Sheinberger | 18.02.25
Durable Materials – Because Your Dog Has No Boundaries
Let’s be honest—dogs aren’t always gentle with furniture. They run around the house, jump on the sofa, and sometimes bring in surprises from outside (yes, mud—we’re talking about you). So when choosing materials for your home, think long-lasting:
Scratch- and water-resistant flooring – like matte-finish porcelain tiles, polished concrete, or high-quality wood flooring.
Washable and durable upholstery – synthetic, stain-resistant fabrics are perfect for dogs who love lounging on the sofa.
Washable wall paint – because sometimes those paws aren’t exactly clean when they lean against the wall.
Give Your Dog a Spot of Their Own
Why let the dog bed look like a design afterthought, when it could be a stylish feature that blends in? A dog bed can become an integrated part of your living room—by the window or even under the stairs. Pick one in tones that match your overall decor, add a basket of toys and a designated feeding area, and voilà—everything looks more organized and cozy.
Smart Storage – So the Leash Doesn’t End Up on the Sofa
Treats, leashes, toys, poop bags—your dog has more gear than you think. Without smart storage solutions, all that stuff ends up scattered around the house. Here’s how to keep it under control:
A dedicated drawer near the entrance – for everything you need when heading out for a walk.
Decorative storage boxes – to keep toys from taking over the living room.
A stylish wall hook for leash and collar – looks much better than tossing them on the nearest chair.
A drawer or cabinet for food and treats – accessibility and convenience are key.
Dogs Have Preferences Too – Have You Thought About That?
Every dog has their favorite spot in the house. Some love to lounge next to you while you work, others want to watch the world go by from the window. Instead of fighting these habits—incorporate them into your design!
A low bench by the window – for doggy observations of the outside world.
A small rug by the sofa – if your dog is going to lie there anyway, might as well make it comfy.
A designated armchair just for the dog – they’ll claim one anyway, so pick one that suits your style.
Cleanliness – Because the Vacuum Is Man’s Best Friend
If you have a dog, your vacuum is probably working overtime. So how can you make life easier?
Easy-to-clean rugs – go for materials that are quick and simple to maintain.
A robot vacuum – saves time and hassle.
Fur-camouflaging colors – if you’ve got a white dog, maybe rethink that black sofa.
Who Said Practicality and Aesthetics Can’t Go Hand in Hand?
It’s absolutely possible to design a beautiful home that’s also comfortable for your dog. It all comes down to the right materials, smart storage, and rethinking how the space is arranged. Want to see what it looks like in real life? Watch the video tour of a home that’s perfectly designed for four-legged friends!