How to Prevent Dog Scratching on Hardwood Floors

Trim your dog's toenails on a regular basis. Longer toenails pose a greater risk for gouge marks and scratches on the floor. Sarah Hodgson says in her book "Teach Yourself Visually: Dog Training," that if you can hear your dog's claws clicking on the floor, they need trimming.

Slide your dog's paws into soft dog shoes. Choosing comfortable dog shoes will protect your floors, though only while your pet is wearing them. For short-term use, dog shoes can protect the floor while you decide on a long-term solution.

Choose strong, sturdy woods when remodeling or installing new wood floors. Seal your floors with a catalyzed water-based finish. "It's a Dog's Word" recommends this finish. It's used on bowling alleys and protects against scratches and tough wear-and-tear. If you already have wooden floors and do not want to remodel, ask a carpenter about sealing your existing floors with the catalyzed water-based finish.

Cover the most damage-prone areas with large rugs or plastic floor mats while the dog is in the room.