Here in the UK, dogs have always been at the heart of the family home, and an increasing number of homeowners are factoring their furry friends into their renovations. Designing with dogs in mind is more popular than ever and some key factors need to be considered.
For years, Brits have been renovating their homes to create open plan living spaces, and whilst this is a modern and stylish option, some are starting to see the downsides. In fact, Victoria Cooper, Certified Dog Behaviourist recently told Jackson Woodturners, that such designs could be detrimental to your dog’s wellbeing.
That’s why the hallway and stairpart specialist has collated tips from experts across cleaning, joinery, dog behaviour and interior design to create their dog-friendly hallway design guide launched for National Pet Month.
Modern Living Styles Could be Causing “Bad” Dog Behaviours
Discussing the challenges of open-plan homes: managing overstimulation and doorway excitement. Victoria comments,
“Modern homes tend to be visually appealing for us, but for some dogs, unlimited access to all areas can be overwhelming. Large windows, open entrances, and constant visual stimulation can lead to increased alertness, hyper-vigilance, and reactivity. Dogs that are frequently exposed to excessive sights and sounds without the option to retreat can struggle to settle and relax.
“Dogs exposed to repeated stressful environments without enough downtime can experience ‘trigger stacking’ – where stress accumulates over time, leading to heightened reactivity, hyper-vigilance, or even aggressive behaviour. Noisy households, frequent visitors, or unpredictable surroundings can contribute to this, leaving dogs feeling overwhelmed.”
4 Ways to Adapt Your Hallway for Your Four-Legged, Furry Friends:
- Reduce Excessive External Stimulation with Blinds and Frosted Film
Victoria Cooper, Certified Dog Behaviourist suggests,
“Ensure dogs have structured rest periods throughout the day, away from busy areas. Using calming music, and blinds can help reduce external stressors. Covering large windows with frosted film or using blinds can help reduce excessive external stimulation, particularly for dogs prone to barking or reacting to movement outside.”
- Maximise Unused Space by Creating Cosy and Restful Corners
“Dog bed” is searched for on average 40,500 times per month in the UK (Google) and with many homeowners trying to maximise unused space, Interior designer Catherine has seen an increase in requests for bespoke solutions.
Catherine Wilman, Interior Designer at Catherine Wilman Interiors:
“One of our favourite tricks is using the space under the stairs to create a dog den – a cosy, enclosed area that makes use of that awkward hallway floor space. With three walls surrounding them, it becomes the dog’s own little retreat while keeping the rest of the house clutter-free.”
- Make Use of Dividers and Install Interior Dog Gates
Victoria Cooper, Certified Dog Behaviourist said,
“Consider installing indoor dog gates across busy areas. A well-placed gate or room divider system can stop a dog from reaching the front door before they are invited or allow them to observe without feeling the need to react.”
When considering dividers and stair gates, expert joiner Adam Taylor at Crafted Gates UK adds,
“Instead of a basic metal gate, opt for a bespoke, handcrafted design that blends seamlessly with your staircase and interior. Hallways are transitional spaces, so installing a pet gate can help manage movement, keeping certain areas off-limits as required. Staircases can pose a risk to pets, particularly older or disabled dogs who may have mobility issues, so a well-designed gate can help prevent falls.”
“Take accurate measurements and share photos with your craftsperson for the best fit and tailored advice. You could also consider matching the gate’s paint colours and parts with your existing room décor for a seamless look.
“Rounded edges, self-closing hinges, and smooth finishes support safety. As will narrow 60-85mm spindle gaps, to stop your pet from squeezing through.”
- Make Use of Dividers and Install Interior Dog Gates
Carpets tend to trap pet hair, odours, and dirt, making them difficult to clean. Opting for wooden or laminate flooring will be less likely to harbour fleas or bacteria, however, as Victoria has already mentioned earlier in this guide, this kind of flooring can be problematic for some dogs.
Georgina Shepherd, Cleaning Expert at Housekeep said,
“Choosing a non-slip runner adds grip without sacrificing hygiene. It may sound obvious, but putting a washable mat near the door is super handy too. This helps catch any mud or dirt from your dog’s paws before they track it through the house. Then you can simply pop it in the washing machine as needed.”
“Regular vacuuming is key, no matter what type of flooring you have. Otherwise, pet hair and dirt can quickly build up, leading to odours. Opt for a vacuum with a HEPA filter (also known as a high-efficiency particulate air filter). It’s great for getting rid of pet dander and keeping your hallway as clean as possible.”
You’ll find a range of useful tips, from cleaning and functional advice to style and design on the Jackson Woodturners guide to dog-friendly hallways.