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Hard-Surface Flooring a No-Go for Your Dog? We Have Solutions!

Mary Simpson
by Mary Simpson
Published:  December 27th, 2024

(photo credit: Christine Bird/shutterstock.com)


For some strange reason, the most recent addition to my pack of three refuses to walk on hard-surface flooring. When she’s out for her daily constitutional or is touring the dog park, she’s fine. Running and exploring appears to be her outdoor passion. But move inside, and any floor surface not covered by a rug or runner is like molten lava that sees her crouching low, visibly psyching herself up to make a move, and then launching herself from carpet to carpet.


Yes, I do indulge her and in addition to carrying her for some of the longer stretches (she’ll stay on one mat for hours on end), I’ve allowed my main floor living space to resemble a flight path with a string of strategically placed mats and dog beds providing safe haven and appropriate landing spots. Did I mention, that these run all the way from the sofa to the back door?


Now, I know this isn’t unique to my dog and it’s not as rare and quirky as I first thought. It seems there can be several reasons my Miniature Schnauzer prefers to avoid hard surface flooring and the most common causes could be:

  1. Medical issues including loss of vision, hip dysplasia or arthritis make gripping a hard, slippery surface feel treacherous. Not the case with my dog.
  2. A previous slip and fall that has a pet overly cautious. Again, not in my experience with her.
  3. A simple lack of traction may cause them to shy away from tile or hardwood. A distinct possibility with my pooch.


Now, if you suspect a traction issue and notice your dog’s feet splay out in every direction when he crosses the floor, he may need foot grooming to remove excess fur between his pads. While I believe a full groom is always best left to the professionals, a quick tidy-up of feet and paws is certainly something we novices can undertake.


Okay, so we all stocked up on grooming kits during COVID (with less than stellar results) but our focus at that time was almost certainly on coats and faces. Not the tufts peeking out from between toes. With this now in mind, we need a tool that’s specifically designed to get into those nooks and crannies between pads, and this VeeConn rechargeable dog clipper is it. Not only does it have a super-narrow grooming head for easy access between toes but it also has an ultra-quiet operation that’s perfect for skittish dogs. And I love cord-free grooming tools because wrangling an uncooperative dog is tough enough.


If your pooch is super sensitive to any sounds or vibration around their feet going old-school might be the solution. This set of two stainless-steel grooming scissors from BOSHELis a great option. They each have rounded safety tips that take the angst out of getting close to eyes, ears or toe pads. And because the smaller of these ergonomically designed dog clippers is perfectly sized and micro-serrated for more intricate work, it’s ideal for working on feet. An easy clean-up tool that can be used between regular, full grooms.


Maintaining an active lifestyle for your pet – both indoors and outdoors – is important for his mental stimulation and physical fitness. When choosing to lay about versus walk about is the choice your pet is making, it’s time to step up your game plan. Assuming your pooch is not in physical pain or visually impaired, foot grooming might be your go-to option. But if your pet goes into panic mode the moment you pull out the clippers, Plan B may make sense.


In this instance, you’ll want to check out non-slip dog socks like these DOK TigerToes slip-ons. Not only are they ultra-soft and comfortable for your pet to wear, but they have an extra-thick, patented grip across the sole that eliminates any danger of your pet slipping on hard-surface flooring. This type of sock is great for any slick surface including pool decks or bathtubs and can even be used to protect from hot pavement during summer walks.


For pet parents who have tried and failed to get their four-legged kiddo to keep booties and socks on their feet, these anti-slip paw protectors from VALFRID may just be the ticket. Like socks, they have a serious grip sole that prevents slips and falls. But unlike socks, these paw protectors have an adhesive backing that you peel and stick to the pads of your dog’s feet. They use a hypoallergenic adhesive, have a rugged sole for outdoor use, and have a soft, breathable texture. And they’re sized for dogs of all sizes.


If you’ve decided your pooch will likely never feel comfortable on hard surfaces, it may be time to work with their quirky behavior and go the mat/rug route.


Let’s start with a great entry mat. Rain, sleet, snow… my dog refuses to come in unless she can see a safe space to step. And that’s got to be something like this Gorilla Grip doormat because of its large, 70- by 24-inch size. It offers the perfect dimensions to get her in and away from the door without bringing the outdoor elements in with her. The plush, microfiber surface is not only ultra-absorbent and quick to dry, but it looks great – not industrial like so many other entry mats. And the textured rubber backing helps this doormat stay put - regardless of how robust my dog’s “re-entry” into my house is. For me, all rugs and carpets in my home have to be machine-washable, and this one easily ticks that box.


Okay, splurge alert – I invested in a RUGGABLE carpet and never looked back. If you’re torn between a basic, functional runner and something a little more spectacular, this is a great option. I love the generous sizing of their runners – 29- by 84 inches – perfect for strategic placement that protects floors from dogs heading out or coming in at top speed. And they’re machine-washable. With three dogs and two cats in my home, I typically wash mine twice a month – and have for years. Not inexpensive, but certainly a pet-friendly solution.


But if you’re trying to accommodate an anxious dog in tight living quarters, smaller scatter mats may be the best solution. Easily picked up and placed wherever your dog struggles with hard surfaces, this compact, 24- by 36-inch non-slip option from Moynesa is a game-changer. Its ultra-thin styling and machine-washable convenience make it easy to “travel” with your pet. Place it by entryways, his food bowls, and his access to the backyard then choose to work with his quirky behaviors rather than manage them.

WOW
Mary Simpson
Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and 2 felines who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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One of the benefits of offering your dog a high-quality wood chew is that you don’t have to be worried about hidden ingredients or what food items your dog is allergic to – it’s a safe option.Keep Even Heavy Chewers HappyWe have all met at least one of these dogs in our lives – the dogs that can tear through anything and everything, including the many toys that have been labeled as “indestructible.” Trying to find something that will last longer than 10 minutes can seem impossible. Luckily, some wood chews are made from a harder, more durable wood, making them a longer-lasting option even for power chewers.

How to Tell If Your Dog Has a Urinary Tract Infection?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health issue in dogs and, if left untreated, can cause significant discomfort and lead to complications. Recognizing the early signs of a UTI is crucial to ensuring timely veterinary care. A UTI occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract, causing inflammation and infection. While dogs of any age or breed can develop a UTI, female dogs are more prone due to their shorter urethras. Here’s what you need to know about identifying, treating, and preventing UTIs in dogs.Recognizing UTI Symptoms in DogsUTI symptoms can vary, and some may be mistaken for other health conditions, such as bladder stones or kidney disease. Key signs to watch for include:Frequent Urination: If your dog is urinating more often than usual or having accidents indoors, this could indicate an infection.Discomfort and Straining While Urinating: Dogs with a UTI may struggle to urinate, pass only small amounts at a time, or whimper due to pain.Blood in the Urine: A red or pinkish tint in your dog’s urine may suggest an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract.Strong or Unusual Odors: A foul or unusually strong smell in the urine can be a sign of bacterial infection.Excessive Licking: Dogs may lick their genital area frequently to soothe irritation and discomfort.Changes in Behavior: A UTI can make a dog feel generally unwell, leading to lethargy, restlessness, or irritability.Causes and Risk Factors of UTIs in DogsWhile UTIs are primarily caused by bacterial infections, several factors can contribute to their development:Underlying Health Conditions: Dogs with diabetes, kidney disease, or weakened immune systems are at higher risk due to changes in urine composition that promote bacterial growth.Urinary Retention: Holding urine for long periods allows bacteria to multiply, increasing the risk of infection.Bladder Stones: These can create an environment that fosters bacterial infections.Anatomical Abnormalities: Some dogs, particularly females or those with congenital issues, may have structural concerns that make them more prone to UTIs.Poor Hydration: Inadequate water intake leads to concentrated urine, which can encourage bacterial growth.Diagnosis and Treatment of UTIs in DogsIf you suspect your dog has a UTI, prompt veterinary care is essential. The veterinarian will perform a urinalysis to check for infection and may recommend additional tests, such as urine cultures or ultrasounds, to rule out other conditions.Treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics to eliminate the infection. The vet may also recommend increased water intake to help flush bacteria from the urinary tract. If an underlying condition, such as bladder stones or diabetes, is present, additional treatments may be necessary.Preventing UTIs in DogsPreventing UTIs involves maintaining good hygiene and supporting overall urinary health:

Health Agency Warns of Werewolf Syndrome Caused by Dog Treats

China-based Barkoo dog chews seem to be root cause in aggressive behavior in multiple pets throughout Netherlands.

A Blind Senior Doggo Saves a Shelter Volunteer From a Deadly Snake

Not all heroes wear capes, and that is particularly true for this one-of-a-kind hero dog. This senior doggo is more than deserving of that title as he valiantly saved a shelter volunteer from a dangerous encounter with a deadly snake. To make everything all the more amazing is the fact that the savior doggo is blind.Moogan, the hero dog in question, is blind due to a rare medical condition. He was walking one day with his caretaker, a shelter volunteer from Utah’s Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, named Dan Fishbein. Dan was there to make sure Moogan didn’t bump into obstacles. "He's so curious, still smelling the flowers, feeling out his surroundings," he said for Newsweek. "I'm always on the lookout to make sure he doesn't barrel into anything."Being so focused on the obstacles in Moogan’s path, Dan Fishbein failed to notice a major threat – a rattlesnake that lay directly in his path. But Moogan’s sharp senses at once went into action and the dog pivoted sharply and directed Dan’s attention downwards, straight to the snake he was about to step on. "Moogan turned to the right, so I looked down, and there it was," Fishbein said. "A rattlesnake, coiled right next to my foot. I gently pulled him away, thanking him. Who would have thought my blind companion would be the one to save me?"

What Is Dog Splooting?

Dogs do a lot of quirky things—one of the many reasons why everyone loves them so much. But have you heard of the sploot? This is a common behavior, with puppies and adult dogs from all breeds exhibiting it. Keep reading to learn all about dog splooting, including how to recognize when this isn’t considered a normal behavior.

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