As a dog owner, you know how much love and joy your furry friend brings to your home.
However, the reality of sharing your space with a dog also comes with some challenges, especially when it comes to keeping your furniture in good condition.
Dogs love to lounge on the couch, curl up during naps, and occasionally get a little too excited.
That's why it’s important to choose a couch upholstery fabric that can handle the wear and tear that comes with being a dog-friendly home.
At Urner’s, we understand how important it is to find the perfect balance between style, comfort, and durability.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you choose the best pet-friendly sofa material that can withstand your dog’s paws, claws, and occasional accidents.
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Find a couch that stands up to your furry friend! Urner’s offers pet-friendly fabrics designed for durability, easy cleaning, and style. Shop now to upgrade your home
Shop SofasFactors to Consider When Choosing Dog-Friendly Fabrics
According to the home and design experts at House Beautiful, “Pet-proof fabrics should be durable, stain-resistant, and impervious to claw marks.”
Before you start shopping for a new couch, it’s essential to consider several factors that will affect how the fabric holds up in your home.
When searching for the best sofa fabric for dogs, you'll want to look for a combination of durability, ease of cleaning, comfort, style, and aesthetics. Here’s a closer look at each of these factors:
Durability
Durability is one of the most important factors when selecting the best couch fabric for dogs. Your pet’s nails, jumping, and general wear and tear can cause damage to the fabric over time.
Look for fabrics that are sturdy, tightly woven, and resistant to snags or rips. Some materials are naturally more durable than others, making them a better choice for high-traffic areas.
Cleanability
With dogs come accidents, dirt, and shedding. You’ll want a fabric that is easy to clean, especially if your dog is prone to shedding or having accidents on the couch.
The best fabric for couches with dogs can be wiped down, vacuumed, or even removed and washed entirely. Removable cushions or slipcovers are a great option for easy cleaning.
Comfort
While durability and cleanliness are essential, comfort should not be overlooked. You want a couch that’s not only practical but also comfortable for you and your dog to enjoy.
Fabrics that are soft to the touch and provide enough cushioning for relaxation will make your home even more inviting.
Style and Aesthetics
Your couch should also match your home’s aesthetic. Fortunately, you don’t have to sacrifice style for function. There are plenty of stylish, dog-friendly fabrics that come in various colors and textures to suit your taste.
Whether you prefer a modern or traditional look, you'll be able to find a fabric that complements your décor while providing the durability your pet requires.
➜ Learn More: 12 Comfy Chair Ideas for Your Family Room
Top Couch Fabrics for Dog Owners
If you have a dog, choosing the right couch fabric is essential to keeping your furniture clean and damage-free. Here are the best fabrics for durability, ease of cleaning, and resistance to pet hair and stains
1. Microfiber
Microfiber is a top choice for dog owners because it’s:
- Durable – Made from tightly woven synthetic fibers that resist wear and tear.
- Stain-resistant – Repels spills and pet accidents.
- Easy to clean – Wipes down easily with a damp cloth or vacuum.
- Pet hair-friendly – Hair doesn’t cling, making cleanup simple.
2. Leather
Leather is another great option because:
- It doesn’t collect pet hair, making it easy to clean.
- Wipes down easily – Great for cleaning dirt and spills.
- Resistant to minor scratches – Though deep claw marks may leave lasting damage.
- Genuine leather is best – Faux leather tends to wear out faster
3. Canvas & Denim
These fabrics are tough and ideal for homes with dogs:
- Highly durable – Withstands heavy use and claws.
- Tear and abrasion-resistant – Great for active pets.
- Machine washable – A huge plus for messy dogs.
- Denim has a rugged texture that holds up well to scratches.
4. Performance Fabrics (e.g., Revolution, Sunbrella)
Performance fabrics are specifically engineered for pet-friendly homes:
- Stain-resistant and moisture-repellent – Ideal for accident-prone puppies.
- Resists odors – Helps keep your couch smelling fresh.
- Easy to clean – Often only requires a damp cloth or mild soap solution.
5. Outdoor Fabrics (e.g., Sunbrella)
Outdoor fabrics aren’t just for patio furniture—they work great indoors too!
- Water-resistant and fade-resistant – Built to withstand tough conditions.
- Tightly woven – Prevents pet hair from getting embedded.
- Highly resistant to stains and odors – A smart investment for pet owners.
6. Polyester
A budget-friendly, pet-friendly option that offers:
- Stain resistance – Synthetic fibers repel spills.
- Odor resistance – Doesn’t absorb smells like some natural fabrics.
- Tight weaves – Reduces snags and claw damage.
➜ Learn More: How Long Will a Flexsteel Couch Last?
Couch Fabrics to Avoid if You Have a Dog
Some fabrics just don’t mix well with pets. If you have a dog, you may want to steer clear of these options:
1. Velvet
Velvet looks luxurious, but it’s a nightmare for pet owners. It’s prone to snagging, scratching, and staining, and cleaning it can be difficult if accidents happen.
2. Silk
Silk is delicate, tears easily, and is nearly impossible to clean if it gets soiled. If your dog sheds or has frequent accidents, silk will require constant maintenance and isn’t worth the hassle.
3. Wool
While wool is durable, it absorbs moisture and dirt, making it difficult to clean. Pet hair clings to it, and it’s also prone to pilling over time, making it a poor choice for dog-friendly homes.
At Urner’s, we offer a variety of high-quality fabrics that are not only stylish but also dog-friendly. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best and worst couch fabrics for dog owners so you can make an informed decision.
➜ Learn More: Are Flexsteel Recliners Any Good?
5 Couches for Homes with Pets
Keep reading for five stylish sofas made with the best couch material for dogs from Urner’s.
Signature Design by Ashley Cascilla Slate Sofa
Shop Signature Design by Ashley Slate Sofa
Got a furry friend? Choose Slate to blend with darker coats or Pewter for a lighter touch—this Signature Design by Ashley sofa has you covered!
The polyester upholstery is durable and ready to stand up to the daily wear and tear of life with pets. Overall, we recommend synthetic over natural fabrics when it comes to dogs because they are designed with durability in mind.
In terms of style, this sofa features a streamlined contemporary silhouette and patterned throw pillows to throw in a bit of contrast.
You can pair this sofa with almost any color palette, and it would work well in a contemporary, modern, or transitional living room design.
Signature Design by Ashley Draycoll Pewter Power Reclining Sofa
Shop Signature Design by Ashley Power Reclining Sofa
This plush sofa by Signature Design will keep you and your pets comfortable!
Available in Pewter or Slate, both options are neutral hues that easily adapt to a variety of design styles and color palettes.
The polyester fabric is durable and easy to clean, making it ideal for pet owners. And the comfort isn’t limited to the comfy cushions—this sofa features power reclining.
With the touch of a button, you can adjust positions and curl up to read, nap, or watch TV with your furry friend.
➜ Learn More: Flexsteel Zecliner Review: A Closer Look
Flexsteel Clive Brown Power Reclining Sofa with Power Headrests and Lumbar
Shop Flexsteel Reclining Sofa with Power Headrests
Another reclining sofa, this Flexsteel couch features an adjustable headrest and lumbar support.
It offers a six-button power hand control so you can find the perfect position with ease, and you can even charge your devices with the built-in USB port.
In terms of style, this tailored sofa is perfect for a transitional living room design.
The polyester-synthetic fabric is easy to clean and resistant to pet hair, though it may not be ideal for resisting scratches.
Benchcraft Buntington Pewter Manual Reclining Sofa
Shop Benchcraft Manual Reclining Sofa
This soft sofa from Benchacraft is perfect for a cozy living room lounge. You’ll love the high-resiliency foam cushions and the reclining function.
This one is a manual recliner with a pull-tab reclining motion, allowing you to find the optimal position.
This light gray fabric has a bit of texture and color variation, making it perfect for hiding pet hair. And, of course, the polyester is ideal for standing up to your pets.
➜ Learn More: Power Recliner Chair and Loveseat Buying Guide
Benchcraft Galemore Quarry Sofa
Shop Benchcraft Galemore Quarry Sofa
Love a classic look but need something pet-friendly? This Benchcraft sofa blends traditional and transitional styles with durability in mind.
We love the rolled arms, nail-head trim, and low-profile accent legs. This sofa features a polyester-synthetic fabric with texture, offering durability and hiding away hair and stains.
The seat and back cushions are reversible, which can come in handy with precocious pets around.
This neutral sofa easily fits your existing living room design or is the perfect backdrop for the remodel you’ve been dreaming of.
How to Choose the Best Sofa Fabric for Dogs
When choosing the best couch fabric for dogs, consider the following factors to find the right balance of durability, comfort, and style:
- Consider Your Dog's Behavior: If your dog is particularly active or has a tendency to scratch furniture, fabrics like microfiber and leather are great choices for their durability. On the other hand, if your dog is more relaxed and doesn’t cause much damage, a soft fabric like canvas may be sufficient.
- Choose Easy-to-Clean Fabrics: Look for fabrics that can be wiped down, vacuumed, or spot-cleaned easily. Microfiber and leather are great for this. Also, removable covers or slipcovers can make cleaning even easier.
- Choose a Tight-Weave, Low-Pile Fabric: A tight weave resists snags from claws, while low-pile fabrics like microfiber and performance fabrics prevent pet hair from getting trapped. Smooth textures also make cleaning dirt and fur easier. For a pet-friendly choice, opt for upholstery that feels smooth and tightly woven.
- Match Your Home’s Style: Dog-friendly fabrics are available in a variety of colors and styles. Whether you’re looking for a modern leather couch or a cozy denim option, you’ll find plenty of choices that will complement your home décor.
- Consider Your Dog’s Size, Breed, and Color: Larger dogs need sturdier fabrics, while smaller dogs allow for more flexibility. To minimize visible pet hair, match your sofa color to your dog—light sofas for light-colored dogs and dark sofas for darker breeds.
Durable & Stylish Couches for Pet-Friendly Homes
Choosing the best couch fabric for dogs is crucial if your home is filled with furry family members.
By selecting a durable, easy-to-clean fabric that suits your style and meets your dog’s needs, you can keep your home looking beautiful without compromising on comfort or functionality.
At Urner’s, we offer a variety of dog-friendly fabrics that combine durability with style so you can find the perfect couch for your pet-friendly home.
Visit one of our California locations today to test out fabrics and cozy couches in person.
➜ Learn More: 6 Stylish Dining Room Sets with Bench Seating
Frequently Asked Questions
The best couch materials for dogs are microfiber, leather, canvas, denim, and performance and outdoor fabrics. These materials are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to pet hair and damage.
Leather is a great option for dog owners because it’s easy to clean, doesn’t attract pet hair, and is resistant to some scratching. However, it can be damaged by sharp claws, so it's important to maintain it properly.
To prevent scratches, choose durable, tightly woven fabrics like microfiber or canvas. Leather can also be a good option if well-maintained. Adding a pet-friendly couch cover or throw blanket can provide extra protection.
A couch that matches your dog's fur color will help conceal shedding. Light-colored dogs blend well with beige, gray, or white sofas, while dark-colored dogs pair best with darker hues like navy, brown, or charcoal.
Yes! Performance fabrics like Revolution, Sunbrella, and Crypton are designed to resist stains, moisture, and odors, making them ideal for pet-friendly homes. These fabrics are easy to clean and help keep your couch looking fresh.
At Urner’s, we carry a variety of dog-friendly sofas in different fabrics, styles, and sizes. Visit one of our locations to explore our selection, or shop online to find the perfect couch for your home.
Why Trust Urner's and Urner's Mattress?
Urner’s started on the back of a bicycle - yup! A bicycle! David E. Urner, a local high school teacher, who spent his summer months selling Wear Ever cookware off the back of a bicycle (think 100+ degrees). David teamed up with another local teacher, Errol P. Janes to create “a new type of store – one that would cater exclusively to providing an easier way of living for the women of Kern County”, and on September 19, 1919, Home Appliance Store was opened to the public. The store boasted a rather impressive selection of “modern” appliances, including a washing machine, a freezer, a gas range, an automatic dishwasher, and an assortment of small appliances. Since then, Urner’s has expanded selections to appliances, furniture, mattresses and cabinetry!
For nearly one century, the Urner family and Urner’s business have both been an integral part of Bakersfield and Kern County, with contributions to community (Better Business Bureau, Sister City Projects, Bakersfield Symphony), charity (Ronald McDonald House, St. Jude’s Dream Home, House of Hope) and education (CSU Bakersfield, Ray Dezember Leadership Development Center. Explore the website, visit the store, or join us socially. We’re all about home, all about fun, and all about you… and we’re ready to make you a part of the Urner’s family today.
Shop Sofas at Urner’s
Stop by any of the 6 Urner’s and Urner’s Mattress locations in Bakersfield, CA to see what a difference buying local with an experienced staff can make. Or shop sofas online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you find a stylish and pet-friendly couch — whether you call us at 661-396-8400, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.
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