How To Protect Hardwood Floors From Dogs?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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  1. Trim the Dog’s Nails. The reason many floors become damaged is because the dogs will scratch with their nails. …
  2. Apply a Scratch-Resistant Coat on the Floors. …
  3. Go the Extra Mile and Install a Waterproof Coat. …
  4. Protect Vulnerable Areas with Rugs. …
  5. Conclusion.

Will a dog ruin my hardwood floors?

Dogs—especially young ones—can easily can have an accident on a hardwood floor, but if you clean it within a reasonable time, no problem.

Yes, dogs could possibly damage hardwood floors

, but a dog lover will gladly take the simple steps to prevent that.

Do dogs paws ruin hardwood floors?

The answer is a definite

yes; you can stop dog nails scratching wood floors

. The best way is to use the above preventive measures, and you will not only have a happy dog, but your hardwood floor will stay in the best condition possible.

Do dog nails scratch hardwood floors?


Nails scratch a typical hardwood finish

.

Over just a few months, your wood floor will begin to look dull and worn just because of all the scratches on the finish from dog nails. Unlike cats, dogs do not fully retract their nails, so they are always clicking on the floor when they walk.

Why are dogs scared of hardwood floors?

Hardwood floors and smooth surfaces such as tile

don’t play to your dog’s natural gripping abilities

. Your dog’s paws were made for gripping the earth. The nails “dig” into the ground for traction like soccer cleats. “dig” into the ground for traction.

Can polyurethane prevent dog scratches?

Train the dog to stay only in certain areas where the rugs are situated.

Apply a few coats of industrial-strength polyurethane wood floor finish

. Also apply a protective wax to the floor. These products will help to make the floor scratch-resistant.

When can dogs walk on refinished hardwood floors?

Q: How long until pets can be on the floors? A: Cats can be on the floors after around 48 hours. Dogs on the other had, we recommend that they stay off the floors for

up to two weeks

. The reason being their nails can be harsh on the new finish while setting up.

How long before dogs can walk on refinished hardwood floors?

After you’ve refinished your hardwood floors, you need to wait before walking on them and/or moving (or returning furniture). At a minimum, you should wait

at least 24 hrs

before walking on the floors; for hours 24-48, it’s best to wear socks only (no shoes, no bare feet).

Do goldendoodles scratch wood floors?


Yes, they can

. Most dogs with long nails can scratch hardwood floors. Proper nail trimming can help prevent scratching. Other steps to take include using carpets and adding protection to the floor.

What wood floor is most scratch resistant?

Selecting a floor such as

Hickory, Hard Maple or White Oak

can protect your floor from damage, as these hardwoods are less susceptible to scratches than softer woods like Pine, Cherry or Black Walnut. Hardwoods with more dramatic grain patterns can help to hide scratches more easily.

Should I hear my dog’s nails on the floor?


If a dog’s nails are too long, you will hear them clack when the dog walks on hard surfaces

. Deciding if your dog’s nails are too long is quite simple. The claws should not protrude over the pad and should not touch the ground when standing.

Is there scratch resistant hardwood flooring?


There is no such thing as “scratch proof wood flooring”

, however, choosing a lower gloss will definitely get you a wood floor that appears scratch resistant.

Why do older dogs slip on wood floors?


Hair in between the pads

is one major cause for dogs slipping on hardwood floors. Once again, your vet or groomer may be able to help you with this delicate task considering that it requires your dog to be extra collaborative and many dogs do not like having their paws touched.

Why does my dog walks backwards on hardwood floors?

Why Does My Dog Walk Backwards On Hardwood Floors? This nervous behavior

may be due to an unsafe feeling on the hardwoods or the room where the hardwoods are making the pup feel unsafe

.

Why do old dogs slip on floors?

PROBLEM:

Dry Paw Pads

Dry paw pads are the most common cause for dogs having traction and slipping issues. Healthy paws are meant to be flexible and almost spongy, which allows for their paws to get better and more secure contact with the surfaces they walk on.

Why do dogs scratch hardwood floors?


The sweat that is released from special glands on the bottom of the paws is a unique scent that is enhanced when your dog scratches at the ground or floor

. When this scent is released it serves as a means for your dog to claim their territory. The most simple reasoning behind this scratching behavior is entertainment.

Can I stay in my house while floors are refinished?


The house is not inhabitable for a minimum of 2 days after the job is completed

, and better to stay out for at least 5 as the fumes/off-gassing is not advisable to breathe in, even if there are other rooms to sleep in.

What to do with pets when refinishing floors?

Picking satin or matte will keep your floors looking their best for much longer. Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed will go a long way toward protecting your floors.

Dogs should have their nails trimmed once every one or two months

. Use this simple rule of thumb – if they click when they walk, it’s time to get it done.

How long do hardwood floors take to cure?

It takes a full

30 days

for the floors to cure, so it’s ideal to wait 30 days before putting area rugs on the surface. If you want to put area rugs back sooner, than 2 weeks is another good benchmark.

How many coats of polyurethane should you put on a hardwood floor?

So, how many coats of polyurethane to add? You should apply

at least three coats

of polyurethane on hardwood floors.

How long do you wait to put rugs down on refinished floors?

Wait

3 weeks

before putting area rugs on newly refinished/finished hardwood floors. Wait 48 to 72 hours after the hardwood has been refinished/ finished before “PLACING” furniture back in its place. Keep a steady temperature and humidity within your home.

How often do wood floors need to be refinished?

A solid hardwood plank at least 3/4 inches thick will likely need to be refinished four to six times during its total lifespan. It’s commonly accepted that you refinish

every seven to ten years

. Important note: some hardwood is only 1/4 inches thick. In this case, a refinish could strip away all traces of the floor.

Emily Lee
Author
Emily Lee
Emily Lee is a freelance writer and artist based in New York City. She’s an accomplished writer with a deep passion for the arts, and brings a unique perspective to the world of entertainment. Emily has written about art, entertainment, and pop culture.