Choose a design that hides pet hair and stains. Dark solid colors have a tendency to show everything. If you have a pet that sheds, you need to get a speckled carpet in a neutral design to hide the hair.
Find a carpet that is manufactured specifically for pet owners. The makers of Pet Agree Carpet wanted to create a product that withstands any damage made by a pet. It is made from a material that traps liquids (pet urine) and stops it from soaking through to the carpet padding and floor below.
Put down nylon carpeting. A carpet made from nylon is the strongest and most durable type. It is easy to clean and doesn't sustain long term damage from your pets.
Get a vacuum for pet owners to clean the carpet. Once you install your carpet, you should invest in a good vacuum to get rid of pet hair. Dyson's Animal Upright Bagless Vacuum for Pet Hair is a good choice.
Use a carpet protector spray. Scotchgard and Hoover have sprays that are formulated to resist any stains.