How To Protect Sofa From Dog? Comprehensive Guide

There are two phases involved in learning how to safeguard your sofa from your pet. The usage of dog-proof materials and a dog bed as a more permanent fix are both possibilities. As a companion piece, “Tips on Keeping Your Dog Off the Sofa” is also highly recommended as it details training methods that are essential for all dog owners.

So then, I say we begin!

How Dogs Destroy Furniture

Dogs do not necessarily have evil intentions when they destroy furniture. It’s not as if they look around and determine the house needs a makeover because they don’t like the paint job or the furniture. Dogs typically destroy furniture unintentionally.

Claw Marks

When they leap on and off the furniture, their nails can scrape or even shred the fabric. This is the most manageable preventable cause, thankfully. Simply maintain a regular grooming schedule and clip your dog’s nails regularly. They won’t be able to snag it this way. Alternatively, you may get a sofa covered in a densely woven material.

Relieving Themselves

Although, a dog’s nails aren’t the only thing to watch out for. Sometimes dogs have accidents where they urinate in inappropriate places, such on the couch. Possibly a young, hyperactive dog simply can’t hold its urine in. Also, maybe your senior dog has started having accidents. It needs to be cleaned up any way. In the case of certain pieces of furniture, this is a breeze. A quick moist cloth cleaning should do the trick.

Anxious Energy

Having your dog rip your sofa or couch to shreds is the worst case scenario when it comes to furniture destruction. It is common practice to do this when you leave your dog alone and it is experiencing separation anxiety. To avoid this, teach your children early on how to safely exit and enter the home.

How Can I Protect My Couch From My Dog?

1. Dog Proof Your Furniture By Using Covers

The best piece of advice is to always cover your furniture to keep your dog from chewing on it. You might picture your grandma draping plastic wrap over her furniture, but today there are many more sophisticated solutions. Washable blankets, slipcovers, and throws can be used to protect your furniture from spills and stains.

Your dog likely has a favorite spot to relax, and it’s probably on the couch. Cover that section of the couch with something that can be easily removed for cleaning.

My home is never without multiple blankets and throws. Tossing a blanket in the washing machine is far more convenient than daily vacuuming the sofa. Slipcovers can be purchased if a more refined aesthetic is desired. You may find them in about any hue and design conceivable. If you’re particularly skilled, you may even sew your own covers out of any fabric you like.

Do you want to keep your pet from ruining your couch? The easiest thing to do is to keep it covered with a blanket or throw.

2. Avoid Bare Wood If Your Dog Chews

It’s frustrating to come home to chewed up chair legs, but you can avoid that by not bringing any wood furniture into your home. While most dogs won’t chew on anything, small puppies often can’t resist the temptation, especially when wooden legs of tables are within easy reach. In particular, if your dog chews while you’re away from home, it can be difficult to train him or her to stop.

There are items on the market designed to deter your dog from chewing, such as bitter apple spray, which can be used if you have wooden furniture that you don’t want him to destroy. To prevent your dog from chewing on your table legs, simply spray this solution on them.

It is recommended that you crate train your dog until you have a better handle on the matter if he or she is particularly destructive while you are away. Chewing on wood is bad for your dog’s health and can cause furniture damage.

Depending on the severity of the damage done, you may be able to restore wood furniture that your dog has chewed.

3. Choose Pet Friendly Materials For Your Furniture

Pet-friendly upholstery materials include leather and microfiber. Leather is a common option since it can be cleaned quickly and easily, while microfiber is favored by many because of its resilience. First, if you aren’t looking to buy new furniture, keep in mind that pretty slip covers may be put on just about anything.

Leather

Pet owners will appreciate leather (or pleather) seating because it is easy to clean with a damp cloth and does not attract hair like fabrics. In addition, it resists odors better than most other fabrics.

While leather is often a preferred material, remember that it can easily scratch. Keep your dog’s nails neatly clipped if you allow it on leather furniture. Scratches from pets are easy to fix using leather care solutions.

Microfiber – Cat Owners Swear By It

Furniture made of microfiber is an excellent option for households with pets because of its resilience. Microfiber is meant to resist moisture and stains better than most woven materials, but pet hair will still cling to it.

Cleaning microfiber requires little more than a damp towel, and the material doesn’t appear to retain odors as much as other fabrics. Microfiber is a popular choice among cat owners because felines typically ignore it. Maybe it’s because it doesn’t provide the loud ripping sound they crave.

4. Regularly Groom Your Dog to Cut Down on Shedding

Grooming your pet frequently is the most effective way to control excessive shedding. Regular bathing and brushing of your dog can reduce the amount of shed hair in your home. Get a de-shedding gadget like the Furminator and vacuum frequently to reduce the amount of hair that your dog sheds.

If you keep up with regular nail trims, your furniture will be less likely to sustain scratches. You can also file the tips of your dog’s short nails to make them less dangerous if you notice that they are still too sharp. I got bored of replacing the cheap nail files I was using on Laika every month, so I invested in a steel nail file.

And trust me, I know that even the best-groomed dogs still shed. I’m sorry you’re having to deal with additional shedding, but luckily there are some easy do-it-yourself solutions for dealing with pet hair.

5. Color Coordinate Furniture & Covers With Your Pet

However much you clean and vacuum, stray pet hairs will always remain. Buy a blanket that is the same color as your pet’s hair or one where the hair doesn’t stand out as much if you don’t want them to be seen. Thankfully, I don’t have to do this with Laika, but if I did, I might give it some serious thought if I had a white dog and dark furniture.

6. Use the Same Entry For Cleaning up Messy Paws

When bringing your dog in and out of the house, a mud room is a great idea. If your home lacks a designated foyer, make due with a small area and stock up on towels just in case. Before letting your dog into the rest of the house, make sure to clean his dirty paws.

In an ideal world, everyone would have a dedicated canine mudroom. Nothing like that exists in my mudroom.

Nothing too fancy there; just a washable mat on the floor, some towels on a rack, and a place to hang leashes for when we come in from the outside. But if I make that same entry every time, I know I’ll always have towels around to wipe up Laika’s muddy paws.

7. Invest in a Nice Dog Bed

It’s possible that your dog’s favorite spot on the couch could be replaced by a lovely, soft bed. I elected to get Laika an orthopedic bed with padding, and she seems to really enjoy it. To find her while she’s napping and I’m not around, I need only look at her dog bed.

There is a wide variety of dog beds available. There are many different types of beds available, including those that are bolstered, orthopedic, heated, or comprised of pillows. Hartz compiled a helpful checklist of criteria to think about while selecting a dog bed.

Some dogs may take some time to warm up to their new beds. Laika’s bed was a hit or miss until we moved it close to the couch. If your dog suffers from velcro dog syndrome (the desire to be physically attached to his owner at all times), you may want to position his bed so that he can keep an eye on the action. Your dog may not immediately take a liking to his bed, but there are simple ways to help him adjust.

If you can get your dog to spend more time on his bed, you should expect to find fewer fur, scratches, stains, odors, and vomit on your furniture.

Do you wish to aid in the upkeep of your furniture? Consider purchasing a high-quality bed for your dog.

8. Keep Certain Rooms Closed Off From Pets

Keep the doors closed to the rooms you don’t want your dog in if that’s the case.

Baby gates are a great way to keep your dog confined to one room or section of the house while you’re away. Yes, (crate training is effective, too)

9. Choose a Sofa With Removable Seats

Having a couch with detachable seats is one of my favorite tricks for keeping the furniture clean when you have pets.

If you’re on the market for a new couch and want one that’s pet-friendly, search for one with removable seats. The fact that each of those cushions can be unzipped and washed separately makes them ideal for households with pets.

10. Have Lint Rollers or Packing Tape on Hand for Picking Up Fur

It doesn’t matter how often you brush your dog, he or she will still shed. And if you’re like me, you’ll find dog hair in unexpected places, including the cabinets, on the TV stand, and in the window treatments. Drive-by shedding seems to be an art form that dogs have perfected.

Applying a lint roller to your furniture is a quick and easy way to remove any stray fur. Is there no lint roller in the house? A roll of packing tape may replace lint rollers, which is one of my favorite life hacks.

What Type Of Sofa Fabric Is Best For Dogs?

The finest sofa fabric can be affected by whether or not you have a dog. For the same reason, if you have pets, it’s not a good idea to acquire a sofa made of a high-maintenance material, since it will need to be professionally cleaned more frequently. Materials that can be washed and reused, such as cotton or olefin, which are also water- and abrasion-resistant, can help you save time, energy, and money.

If you’re looking to replace your sofa and have a dog, microfiber is another option to consider. You won’t have to worry about odor or stains if your dog drools or has an accident on it. If you don’t mind sharing your couch space with your pet, the microfiber upholstery is easy to clean and has the added bonus of being comfortable for your dog.

The 7 Best Couch Materials and Fabrics for Dogs

1.Real Leather

What is the greatest material for furniture to have when you have a dog?, you can question a panel of seasoned pet owners. The most common response will most likely be “real leather.” Additionally, that shouldn’t come as a shock. For a number of reasons, leather is a great option.

To start, it stands the test of time. However much you try to prevent it, your dog will eventually learn that the couch is a better place to nap than the floor. When used on other materials, a sharp claw might easily pierce through them. This is not a concern while working with leather.

Second, the fabric won’t get ripped up by their claws. The reason is that leather is quite sturdy. They won’t be able to snag their nails on any loose threads in the weave. And if they do damage the sofa, it will only add to the distressed look and feel that so many people pay a premium for.

Leather’s ease of maintenance extends to its cleanliness. Don’t worry about sending it to the dry cleaner or anything. Simply use a moist cloth to wipe it down and it will be as good as new.

The high cost is the primary detractor from leather’s popularity. Leather couches and chairs tend to be expensive. However, you should view it as an expense. You won’t have to replace your sofa nearly as often and it’s pet-friendly. In reality, leather furniture has the potential to last for many years.

Pros

• Extremely solid
• Fabric that isn’t going to budge
• Easily maintained
• In some cases, scratches add character.
• Very durable and long-lasting

Cons

• Expensive
• Extreme heat is possible in the summer.

2.Outdoor Acrylic Fabrics

If you have a pet and are in the market for new indoor furniture, you might want to look into patio sets. Outdoor furniture is built to withstand the elements, including rain, sleet, snow, and even direct sunlight. If you’re dog approves, then it’s good enough for him.

You also need not stress over matters of taste and choice. Outdoor furniture has come a long way from being relegated to the patio or sundeck, and there are many fantastic options available. This set by Polaris Garden is equally at home in an indoor or outdoor setting. Plus, it’s constructed of long-lasting rattan, so Fido can go wild on it without worrying about ruining anything.

The price of outdoor furniture is often substantially lower than that of its indoor version. If you’re trying to get the most out of your money when furnishing your home, you should learn the “ins” of outdoor furniture.

When searching for new outdoor furniture, pay close attention to the quality of the cushioning. The cushions are easily washable, although they might be too thin and flimsy for your taste. There are more pet-friendly choices to consider if you need more help.

Pros

• Reasonably priced
• Quick and simple to disinfect thoroughly
• Numerous variations on styles

Cons

• Maybe the idea of bringing your patio set inside doesn’t appeal to you.
• Having only the barest of structural integrity

3.Denim

Maybe denim isn’t the first fabric that comes to mind when you think of furniture. But don’t let it slip your memory. Denim is a versatile fabric that can be used to make anything from sturdy outdoor furniture to plush indoor pieces that are safe for pets. Furniture made from denim can give any room a cool, laid-back vibe that’s perfect for entertaining or just relaxing.

However, the same qualities that make jeans popular amongst workers all over the world also make them ideal for pets: they are extremely long-lasting and protective. As a matter of fact, it’s nearly as durable as real leather. However, the airflow is significantly better. Because even though it is knitted, the weave of denim is quite close and snug. It lets air circulate but stops debris like your dog’s teeth and nails from entering.

One major drawback of denim furniture is that it is made from a somewhat uncommon fabric. This could make it tough to locate denim furnishings that appeal to you and that also work with the rest of your decor. Denim, on the other hand, can be a fantastic option for any dog owner doing a major renovation.

Pros

• Extremely durable and sturdy
• Stylishly unconventional, yet effortlessly comfortable
• Intricately weaved

Cons

• Rare and specialized textiles
• Perhaps not a good match for your interior design

4.Canvas

Canvas has several uses besides canvas paintings and sails. It’s great for upholstery material. Because another choice that is both long-lasting and comfortable is canvas. It’s a lot like denim in that it’s a sturdy fabric made from densely woven threads. It has a really natural feel, therefore the roughness will be enjoyable.

Furniture made with canvas is hard to come by because most companies prefer to work with different fabrics. But you can get one built specifically for you for a price. The natural feel of this cloth is unparalleled. It has the look and feel of linen without the hassle of ironing, the durability of denim without the restriction of color options, and the low maintenance of leather.

Pros

• Robust and enduring
• Intricately weaved
• Pure and simple style
• Easily maintained

Cons

• Irregular in its occurrence
• Pricey

5.Tight Weave Twill

Actually, twill is more of a weave technique than a cloth. Cotton or cotton and polyester blends make up most twill, which also comes in a wide range of thread counts. And it’s one of the most sought-after finishes for furniture. It shouldn’t be hard to track down a sofa or couch made of twill.

However, some searching around may be required to locate the ideal thread count and weave. There is a wide variety of textured and printed twill options. Finding a textured pattern is the key. As a result of the tighter weave of twill designs, they are better able to withstand the wear and tear caused by your dog’s claws than ordinary printed fabrics.

Choose pet-friendly furniture from among a wide variety of twill patterns, including herringbone, houndstooth (go figure), and serge.

Pros

• Locating this article was a breeze.
• Huge variety of styles

Cons

• To make matters worse, cleaning it can be a real pain.
• However, it tears more easily than leather or canvas.

6.Microfiber

If you want the luxurious feel of leather without the hefty price tag, microfiber is a great option. It offers the same feel and look of leather (or suede), but without the drawbacks.

Unlike some types of leather, microfiber sofas are typically stain-resistant and might be even easier to clean. Even though they clean up like leather, they typically include machine-washable, removable covers for the seats and backs. In addition to being more comfortable to sit on than leather, they are also easier on the wallet.

For dog owners in the market for new furnishings, this option couldn’t be better, and it’s a lot easier on the money, too. However, microfiber couches aren’t as long-lasting as their leather counterparts. The likelihood of them needing replacement is high much before your genuine leather furniture does.

Pros

• Frequently used
• Inexpensive
• It’s simple to clean

Cons

• Contrasted with other materials in terms of durability.
• To be torn or ripped still possible

7.Protected Fabrics—Crypton, Scotchgard

You have a handful of more options in pet-friendly protective fabrics if you’re not too concerned about rips and tears but do want to prevent stains. These can be new materials made to resist spills and odors, or they can be applied as a protective spray to your current furniture.

The Crypton used to make the furnishings in many hotels and cruise ships. Crypton fabric is a proprietary technology that prevents stains and the growth of microorganisms on upholstery.

However, there is an alternative to buying Crypton fabric if you don’t want to spend the money. Get a couple of cans of Scotchgard, or some other brand name, to protect your furniture’s fabric. These products are fantastic for protecting against spills, keeping liquids at bay, and eliminating unpleasant scents caused by pets. Although using Scotchgard is only a stopgap measure, it is significantly more cost effective than buying brand new furniture.

Pros

• Affordable substitute
• Prevents bacterial proliferation

Cons

• Not a lot of appealing formats are seen in the norm
• Sprays designed to prevent damage need to be reapplied frequently.

Is Leather Or Cloth Couch Better For Dogs?

If you have dogs, your choice between a leather sofa and a fabric sofa will depend on how you want to use the sofa. A leather couch, for instance, is easier to keep clean since it repels pet hair and can be wiped down quickly. However, you’ll need to know how to repair pet scratches on leather to restore its beauty if your dog ever manages to harm it.

So, you need to decide if you’ll let your dog on the couch or train him not to. Is it necessary to dog-proof the sofa, or can you trust that the piece will hold up to the abuse that comes from being used by humans and animals? As long as the fabric can be easily cleaned by vacuuming and spot-treated, a cloth sofa might still be a good alternative for a family’s living room.

What Can I Spray On My Couch To Keep My Dog Off?

A pet deterrent spray is another option to keep your dog off the couch in addition to a sofa cover or dog-proof upholstery. Since dogs despise spicy flavors, you can easily make one at home with just cayenne pepper and water. Some dog owners have also discovered that using citrus or sour scents is an effective way to keep their pets off the furniture.

Does Tin Foil Keep Dogs Off The Couch?

In addition to keeping cats off the furniture, tin foil can also keep dogs off the couch. Dogs may find the sound and texture of this material unpleasant, thus it can be used to help dog-proof furniture. Try leaving a sheet of aluminum foil on the sofa when you’re not there to see whether your dog notices.

What Fabrics to Avoid with Dogs

Not all fabrics are suitable for use around dogs. Certain materials are readily damaged and should be avoided if at all feasible.

Tweed

Although tweed can add a pleasant country feel to your home, it is not a good choice if you have pets. This makes it more simpler for your dog’s nails to catch on your couch’s fabric and start unraveling it. The loose weave also attracts hair and dust, both of which contribute to an unpleasant odor in your furniture.

Suede

Suede is like the kinder, gentler cousin of leather, yet it should never be worn around canines. Durable though it may be, water spots are attracted to and become embedded in the surface. Wet patches, whether from drool, urine, or mud, become very noticeable and challenging to clean.

Silk

You can make beautiful furniture out of a variety of materials, but silk is up there with the best. Even for people who don’t have pets, the upkeep is substantial. To make matters worse, bringing a dog into the equation makes maintaining a spotless home next to impossible. Silk is a delicate fabric because of its thinness and loose weave. Moreover, it is difficult to clean and should be left to the experts. If you are a parent of a puppy, you should probably just avoid silk entirely.

Velvet

Velvet is another fabric that requires a lot of care and attention. Although velvet is not as delicate or flimsy as silk, it still has its drawbacks. This stuff attracts dog fur like a magnet. There will be enough dog hair on your velvet sofa to construct another dog, even if you have a very low-shedding dog breed. It also has a high capacity to soak up unpleasant odors as they mature. When you factor in the expense of hiring a professional cleaner, most people who own dogs will opt to avoid velvet couches and chairs.

Conclusion

The couch could be a source of comfort for your dog, or it could be hiding food scraps. Whatever the case may be, this article provided you with two options for dog-proofing your sofa. Cover the sofa or find him another bed option. Aluminum foil, pet deterrent sprays, and dog-friendly furniture are some other options.

Why not learn how to Scotchgard a sofa at the same time you’re teaching your dog good manners, keeping him clean, and eliminating any lingering odors from recent meals? Your sofa will be safe from any accidents your pet may produce.