A doormat is an important tool either before or after stepping through the entrance way to a home. Anyone that has been out in rain and mud appreciates the chance to wipe their feet and get the worst of the mess off.

Our dogs are also in need of a good mat for messy paws, even if they are less particular about staying clean.

The best doormats for dogs differ from those for humans because they have to tackle a lot of wet, muddy paws in an effective manner.

The question is, what constitutes the best doggy doormats?

[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]In this guide to finding the best doormat for dogs we will look at some of the most important considerations for choosing a good product, alongside some brands and models that provide that benefit. [/thrive_text_block]

The models chosen here all have a clear selling point or advantage over the others, but they are also pretty good, all-round performers.

The guide will start with the important issue of absorbency, and then the materials that go into these great doggy doormats to meet this need. Then we will look at those that go further with non-skid protection and other durable elements for a more reliable product. This leads into a section on some outdoor and indoor models and the differences there.

Finally, we will look at the size options and the less important, but more fun aspect of the design. With all of this in mind, it should be easier to find the bes dog-friendly doormats around.

The first thing to consider here is an absorbent doormat for dogs

Absorbency has to be the most important element here because of all the water and mud that they have to deal with, a big hairy dog can hold a lot of water in its coat and it needs a safe place to stand and be dried off before running into the home.

Also, there is nothing to stop them from lying down over the whole surface and really letting the water seep in. The more absorbent the mat, the better the result. There are also those that promise to be absorbent for other indoor uses, such as a home for food and water bowls that may be split or knocked over. It all depends on the purpose of the mat, something that will be discussed further later.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]The Walky Dog Dirty Dog Rug Microfiber Doormat is a product that immediately suggests a great performance when it comes to dealing with water and mud. That is because it claims that it “instantly soaks up water, mud and dirt” in order to protect floors more easily. [/thrive_text_block]

The makers are so instant on this claim that promise that it can be used in all kinds of situations without any problem, they cite kitchen floors beneath food and water bowls, inside crates and in cars. This brings some versatility beyond a typical door mat. There is also the addition of the “anti-slip backing” for added security in all of these situations.

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B0145W5SXM” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/51MtzJGICL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2qnx0Ed’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]

The absorbency has a lot to do with the material of a dog door mat

This absorbent nature is clearly down to the use of fibers and the quality of the pile.

Without a strong surface with a decent surface area, the water and other liquids have nowhere to go. There is a slight dilemma with these mats as the best models are usually made from a chenille microfiber for increased performance, yet microfibers are bad for the environment. If these mats are machine washed then the fibers can end up in the water supply. Buyers therefore need to think carefully about the brands they chose, the materials used and the balance of an environmental product vs an effective one.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]A great example of a product that makes use of this material is the Soggy Doggy Microfiber Chenille Doormat that is specifically marketed as for “Wet Dog Paws” This is a pretty large mat at 26 x 36’’, as you will see below in the size section, and uses this microfiber in either a blue or brown bone design.

The point of this microfiber is that is absorbs as much as 5x more water than the cotton of typical mats, while remaining quick drying and strong. This is why this brand, and the majority of others here, use these fibers. [/thrive_text_block] [easyazon_image align=”center” height=”333″ identifier=”B01AV1RPBO” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/41ytVwJGKQL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2rp0g1H’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]

The same is seen in the Soggy Doggy Productions Soggy Doggy Pet Door Mat and other models across the range.

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”333″ identifier=”B005VSUT16″ locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/51AVyHNVTnL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2rpb8gb’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]

What about non-slip mud rugs for dogs?

The surface on the top of these doormats is very important for this one performance element of absorbancy. However, designers also have to consider the underside too. Dog owners want a mat that is stable enough to stay in place by the door. Nobody wants their dog bounding in only to have the mat slip and trip them up.

A strong non-skid surface underneath is essential here to prevent this. It also helps for humans that want to wipe their feet on it too. We can take this for granted with some typical welcome mats, but it is worth checking that the doggy model you are looking at has the right surface.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]One option that stands out as a non-skid option is the Dog Gone Smart Dirty Dog Doormat. The makers claim that these are the only mats that use their heavy “Gripper Non-Skid” backing underneath for a stronger, more stable mat. This strong backing adds to the tougher feel of this mat, This strong backing adds to the tougher feel of this mat, which is also seen with the use of double basted stitching for a stronger construction.

This Dog Gone Smart Dog mat isn’t all about the underside, the top contains a similar microfiber surface with some familiar claims about it drying five times faster.[/thrive_text_block]

This large, brown doormat measures 35 x 26 inches – not the largest in this guide but not the smallest either – and is also machine washable for extra convenience.

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B008CNQOXY” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/612BPdJRzvBL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2qrkEdD’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]

This idea of a non-slip mat leads into the durability of dog doormats

There are sure to be some concerns from dog owners that these dog-friendly doormats aren’t all that long lasting. Not if they soak up so much dirt and water and take such a large amount of punishment from pets.

Ideally, all dog owners want something that will last without looking tatty, messy and worn out.

The best models can last for a long time without users being too careful with them and many are machine washable, to preserve their look for a little longer. Cost can also come into the equation here. You have to balance the potential of a cheap and cheerful option that can be worn out and replaced against a more expensive one that will last longer.

The Dog Gone Smart Dog model above is clearly a great example of what can be achieved for a tougher approach to doggy doormats. Yet, it is not alone in this desire to provide a strong, reliable option for pet owners in different situations.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]The Clean Pooch Mat Super Absorbent Mat has the tag line of being “perfect for pets” with “no more dirty paw prints”.

It is designed for use in cars, crates, underneath food bowls, and of course by the door. The strong non-slip backing work in all areas and the tough materials can handle being thrown around from home to car, as needed.

There is the potential downside of a smaller size here. This option measures, 18×28’’, in order to fit in all these areas, so is not ideal for larger breeds. However, it is still absorbent and reliable with those microfiber fingers and this size makes it easier to clean. [/thrive_text_block] [easyazon_image align=”center” height=”400″ identifier=”B01B54XBGO” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/51xjfzk8xgL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″]

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Then there is the question of outdoor use vs indoor use

There are some dog mats that can stay outside with no problem at all. They are the slightly tougher ones that have no problem handling the dirt and water and have the ideal non-slip surface for outside the front door on the path or patio. This is great for all those that prefer to have their dogs clean themselves off before they enter the home – just in case. After all, a dirty dog doormat can look a bit untidy, and get a little smelly, in the inner hall or porch.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]The My Doggy Place Microfiber Dog Door Mat lures people in with the invitation to “prevent mud and dirt from getting in your house”.

This is perfect for all those that prefer to clean their dog off, or simply deal with the worst of the mess outside. It has the strength and durability of the options above to withstand the environment, as well as that important non-slip backing and that highly absorbent microfiber chenille on top.

Interestingly, this model comes in a range of sizes and colors, so that owners can still have an attractive model outside. It comes in red, brown, blue, oatmeal and charcoal, with an optional paw print design.[/thrive_text_block] [easyazon_image align=”center” height=”433″ identifier=”B0172IB4E8″ locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/51WVGJZo2QL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2r4ssnH’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]

Alternatively, there are some indoor paw cleaning mat options for those that will let their pups dry off in the warmth of the home. Some models are not designed to go outside. They are either too fragile or prone to damage to stand up to the elements. This does not mean that they are not as good as the outdoor-friendly models.

In fact, many of best indoor dog doormats have a nice design with those highly absorbent properties seen above. It all depends on your preference for where you want to put the mat and whether it is used for food and water as well.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]There are some options, such as the Muddy Buddy Paw Mat, that claims to be purely for indoor use only.

This is where owners have to be careful to double check the materials use, the strength and the absorbency to see why it cannot go outside. Indoor models like this are a great idea for those that want something a little softer, simpler, easier to clean and perhaps even prettier. The top surface of this mat sticks to the common formula with the “super absorbent” microfiber chenille, to ensure that most mud and dirt is dealt with.

The look of this mat is important with the cute paw-print design and should look good for a while if treated well. It is also a decent size for an indoor model, measuring at 21×30’’ – not too big for the porch but not too small for larger dogs either.[/thrive_text_block] [easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B01F1Z8JZ6″ locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/6156lsBDVKL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2rYMwrw’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]

What about the size of these absorbent mats for dogs?

One factor that some people may overlook when choosing the ideal dog doormat is the size.

It is easy to become caught up with the materials and the performance elements, but we cannot forget that it also has to be big enough to suit the space and the needs of the animal.

A small, super-absorbent mat with a cute design may look great in from of the door, but it is no good for larger dogs if they have two paws on and two paws off – or cannot lie down on it. Most of the top brands should list the dimensions of the mat on their product description. Some may provide small, medium and large options within a range.

Size is important and there are larger mats and smaller ones.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]The iPrimio Micro Fiber Door Mat is classed as both an “extra thick” and an XL model, so it covers both bases quite nicely. The mat measures 36×26 inches, so is actually comparable with some of the other larger mats in this guide.

This large iPrimio mat is ideal for big dogs that need a “super absorbent” place to dry off as it contains those microfibers that are seen in the best models above. This means a great performance on water and dirt, the former of which is added with the additional waterproof liner for crates and other indoor applications. The mat is also machine washable with a fun dog-themed print.[/thrive_text_block] [easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B01A4JMA2C” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/519tqDedqGL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2rHcDpD’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link] [thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]However, it should be noted that there is a Soggy Doggy Blue Doormat with Brown Bone model that has the same microfibers and absorbency of the other Soggy Doggy models, but is as large as 36×60″.

This may be a little excessive for some animals and does require a lot of space. It all depends on the area and the breed.[/thrive_text_block] [easyazon_image align=”center” height=”335″ identifier=”B00BXUSLGG” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/51QJ0RAbfL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2rploVM’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]

The final element to look at here is the design of these absorbent door mats for dogs

The design may not seem like a very important factor for a product that is just going to be trampled by muddy feet. However, many of us still have welcome mats with nice designs and messages that take almost as much bad treatment.

The majority of the mats seen in this guide so far, and in fact in many brands’ collections, share a theme. There is often some form of bone design or paw print in a choice of colors. This isn’t all that inspiring. Still, there are a few that do things a little differently.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]One such product is the I Love Dogs Tapestry Indoor Outdoor Pet Mat from the PB PAWS PET COLLECTION BY PARK B. SMITH. Instead of that typical fluffy design with the bone, this option uses panels with different words, phrases and small paw print and heart.

This tapestry approach gives this mat the look of a more high-end human-focused welcome mat, rather than a doggy one, and it is more eye-catching to visitors.

However, that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t use great, dog-friendly materials and features. There is still a great surface for wet, muddy feet and that protective non-skid backing. This is also another model that works great as an indoor mat in different locations because its look, with many using it in the kitchen.[/thrive_text_block] [easyazon_image align=”center” height=”400″ identifier=”B00CEWG9YS” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/51tnEbarkQL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”400″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2s4HUz8′ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]

What have we learned about choosing the best doggy doormats for your pet?

There is clearly a lot to consider here, perhaps more so than some dog owners would have first expected.

Ideas of an absorbent, secure and washable dog mat seem pretty straightforward, but owners don’t always think more carefully about the precise fabrics, the level of absorbency and the durability of the model.

There is also a difference between the outdoor and indoor models, which could be a deal breaker, and other little details to the design. They may all look similar at first – with that over-used bone or paw print design – but there are subtle differences.

Which is best for you?

The best doormats for dogs are the ones that meet the criteria set out above, but also the personal requirements of the dog and his owner.

Pay close attention to those materials for the durability and absorbency, but don’t forget to ensure that the mat is large enough for your pet to be comfortable and to take the strain of all the mud and water.

Consider whether you want an indoor option or an outdoor one. Also, remember that there are other design options out there. With this priorities list in mind, you can find the right dog-friendly doormat for your canine companion.