If you share your home with a furry friend, you already know the struggle. You want a sofa that looks stylish and feels comfortable, but you also need it to survive muddy paws, shedding fur, and the occasional playful claw swipe. The good news? You don’t have to settle for “practical but ugly.” There are plenty of pet-friendly sofa choices that look just as good as they perform.

Fabrics That Can Handle the Paw Test

The fabric you choose is the first line of defense against pet mess.

• Leather and faux leather: These are popular with pet owners because they’re easy to wipe clean. Spills and fur don’t sink in, and a quick cloth usually does the trick. The only catch is that sharp claws can leave scratches, so trimming nails regularly helps.
• Microfiber and performance fabrics: These are lifesavers if you have pets that shed a lot. They’re durable, tightly woven, and don’t trap fur as easily. Many performance fabrics are also stain-resistant, which means less stress when accidents happen.
• Slipcovered sofas: If you’re the type who doesn’t mind throwing a cover in the wash, this is a game-changer. Slipcovers let you keep your sofa fresh without worrying about long-term stains.

A couple recently shared with us how they chose a taupe microfiber sofa when they adopted their Labrador. It turned out to be the perfect match—comfortable for family movie nights and resilient enough to handle a 30kg dog that thinks it’s a lap puppy.

Colours and Patterns That Work in Your Favour

Pets shed. That’s a fact. Choosing the right colour can make life so much easier.

• Match the sofa to your pet’s fur: If your cat has white fur, a dark charcoal sofa might look gorgeous in the showroom, but it’ll constantly show hair at home. Lighter greys, taupe, or cream might be smarter choices.
• Go for patterns or textured fabrics: A subtle pattern or woven texture can hide small scratches or fur better than flat, solid fabrics.

Think of it as styling smart—your sofa still looks chic, and your pet doesn’t expose every little imperfection.

Sofa Styles That Suit Pet Life

Not every sofa shape is ideal when pets are part of the picture.

• Tight-back sofas: These don’t have loose cushions, so there’s less space for fur and crumbs to hide.
• Sectionals: Perfect for bigger families (and pets that love to stretch out). Sectionals give everyone—including the dog—their own spot without crowding.
• Ottoman pairings: Adding a matching ottoman can give your pet their own little “spot” without sacrificing your main seating. It’s a trick some customers use to keep pets off the main cushions.

Accessories That Make All the Difference

Even the best sofa benefits from a few extra touches. Washable throws or stylish pet blankets can protect your cushions and still look intentional as part of your décor. A customer told us how they keep two matching throws on rotation: one in use, one in the wash. That way, their sofa always looks tidy—even with two cats ruling the house.

Comfort for You and Your Pet

At the end of the day, your sofa should be a place where everyone feels welcome. With the right fabric, colour, and style, you can have a sofa that’s both pet-proof and Pinterest-worthy. Because let’s be honest—your furry friend isn’t going to stay off the couch, and that’s okay. With the right choice, you’ll love the look of your living room just as much as the company you keep on the sofa.