Top 5 Flooring Materials for a Dog Run - (2024)

The type of flooring material you choose for your dog run can play a huge role in how healthy and comfortable your four-legged friend will be. The thing with dirt is that it turns muddy every time it rains while grass fosters all kinds of parasites, which is precisely why most dog owners in Australia opt for a different flooring material to ensure their dogs enjoy every second they spend in the run. And to help you design your dog run, we came up with five top flooring materials for a dog run. With these, you can’t go wrong.

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1) Sand

Sand is one of the most popular flooring materials for a dog run. The reason behind this is that sand is easy on your dog’s feet and allows them to dig without doing any damage. Moreover, sand holds heat from the sun, making it a perfect option for dog owners who live in parts of Australia where temperatures tend to get low. On the other hand, if you live in a warm area, bear in mind that sand can get hot enough to burn your furry friend’s feet. Also, prepare to vacuum a lot as there will be sand on every carpet in your home.

2) Small river rocks

Another good flooring option for your dog run is small river rocks. River rocks are easy to maintain as all you need to do is hose them off. What’s even better, your dog can dig, and they still won’t be able to create a way for them to get out. Small river rocks also look great and will add style to your backyard. However, bear in mind that rocks aren’t necessarily the comfiest dog run flooring material and it’s a good idea to build a doghouseor provide your furry friend with another level platform where they can lie. The comfier you make it, the better!

3)Concrete

From a hygiene standpoint, concrete is the best flooring material for a dog run. It doesn’t foster parasites, and you can clean it in no time. Also, you can rest assured knowing your dog won’t dig their way out. Concrete isn’t as comfortable as some other flooring materials you can opt for, so introducing another level your dog can relax on is recommended. Knowing how much concrete you need can make the entire project a lot easier. Luckily, finding a concrete calculator in Australiathat you can use will be a breeze.

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4)Plastic

Plastic flooring comes in a couple of forms, and you can’t go wrong with any of them. While it may not be the comfiest material out there, plastic isn’t a great heat conductor which makes it a material worth considering for your dog run. Plastic is also guaranteed that it will hold up against scratching and chewing, and you don’t have to worry about mold and mildew. If you live in a part of Australia that receives a lot of rain, plastic is the material to go to, as it’s completely waterproof. We should also mention that plastic is very easy to maintain.

5) Rubber

Many Australians decide to use rubber mats for their dog runs, and they do so for a reason. Rubber is as comfortable as it gets when it comes to dog run flooring materials and is also easy to clean. Not to mention that it absorbs shock better which is something you have to keep in mind if your dogjust can’t tire out. Another good thing about it is that you can get rubber mats in all shapes and sizes, allowing you to interlock them any way you want. Some rubber mats are good heat conductors while others aren’t, so choose carefully.

Conclusion

While there are many flooring materials you can use for your new dog run, the five of them we discussed here are your safest bet. Most dog owners opt for one of these five materials, and it seems like it’s working out well for them. No matter which of these materials you choose, don’t forget to install some shade structures or a roof too. A dog house is optional, but it’s usually the best if you can provide your furry family member with one.

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Top 5 Flooring Materials for a Dog Run - (2024)

FAQs

What is the best flooring for a dog run? ›

PVC Outdoor Tiles

Outdoor Patio Tiles are among the best flooring for outdoor dog kennel products when your dogs will be spending time outdoors or over a concrete surface with a floor drain. They deliver a surface that is non-slip and comfortable.

What is the best surface material for a dog run? ›

Our favorite material for dog play yards is, without a doubt, pea gravel! This finely ground and smoothed gravel essentially acts as kitty litter for your dogs.

What floor surface is best for dogs? ›

Vinyl flooring is durable, cost-effective and waterproof, making it an excellent choice for dog owners. Today's vinyl flooring options can replicate the look of genuine hardwood flooring and other natural materials like stone or tile, with the added benefit of being more scratch-resistant and long-lasting.

What is the best running surface for dogs? ›

It's best to run with your dog on a variety of surfaces and where possible, to always choose a trail or grassy soft surface over a hard one. As well as being hard, pavements, asphalt, wood, metal and sand all absorb heat from the sun and retain it for hours afterwards – even after the sun has gone down.

What is best to use in a dog run? ›

Choose the right materials

Some people make the mistake of using grass, and while it's cheap, it's also messy, and you'll find yourself replacing it at least once a year. Instead, you should consider a stone like pea gravel, limestone or gravel chips, as well as screenings as the base of the dog run.

What material do dogs like the most? ›

Cotton should therefore be your first choice, with which you can certainly not go wrong. It is soft and comfortable, but still collects the most shedding hair. Tweed, a coarse, woolen fabric with a soft, open, and flexible texture is also suitable for dogs.

Is gravel good for dog run? ›

Because of their surface stability, superior drainage properties, and overall ease of maintenance, crushed rock and gravel are the best landscape rock options for outdoor dog areas. While river rock and pebble have many other applications in your yard and outdoor spaces, gravel is the best landscape rock for dogs.

How deep should a dog run be? ›

Washed rock in either size should be gentle enough on your dog's paws. Make sure to provide a good depth of rocks (5-6 inches), so water can drain away without leaving mud puddles for your dog to drink and roll in. A dog run is a great option for providing your pet with a safe place to run and play that's just theirs.

Are pavers good for a dog run? ›

Pavers are usually surfaces that are smooth. This means that your pets can enjoy spending hours running around in your backyard, without this affecting their paws.

How big should a run be for a dog? ›

- How long your dog spends inside. Obviously a run used to keep a dog for 10 hours a day should be bigger than one that is used for 2hrs a day. For small breeds, you may be okay with a 2m by 2m area. For medium dogs, you may want to consider at least a 3m by 2m area.

What is the most pet friendly type of flooring? ›

Laminate floors are a prime example of dog-friendly flooring options. Their surface is engineered to withstand the rigors of daily life, including potential pet accidents. The laminate's waterproof qualities are a game-changer, providing peace of mind and easy cleanup in case of unexpected spills.

Does dog pee ruin vinyl flooring? ›

If pet urine is left on vinyl flooring for an extended period, it can potentially stain or discolor the flooring. Additionally, if there are gaps or seams in the vinyl flooring, urine can seep into these areas and potentially cause damage to the subfloor below.

What flooring is best for dogs who pee? ›

A) Waterproof vinyl, tile and laminate are the best floors for pets that have accidents because they are easy to clean and stain resistant. A small patch of pet turf is nice to keep in the house as well if you are going to be gone for a long stretch of time.

What is the best thing to put in the bottom of a dog kennel? ›

One of the best dog kennel flooring ideas for your dog kennel is Tenderfoot Flooring. This is a popular type of flooring that is made of rubber or plastic materials and has an interlocking design.

Is vinyl or laminate better for dogs? ›

Both laminate and luxury vinyl flooring are great choices but if the pet is prone to accidents, luxury vinyl is the way to go. No matter which option you select, make sure to look at the specifications of the product and choose the most durable option.

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