How to Put a Dog Bed in Your Kitchen (Without Tripping Over It Every 5 Seconds)

Creating a quiet, cozy space for your pets will help them feel more comfortable there. The team at Wren Kitchens recommends choosing a spot that’s far removed from your oven, to avoid the danger of heat and fumes. Instead of a section of lower cabinets, you could create a pet den of sorts, or tuck the bed under the kitchen island. You can also install a toe-kick drawer that stows pet food and water, keeping the bowls orderly (and safely stowed when you’re actively cooking).

Navy and forest green cabinets have been a huge kitchen trend, and they’re also great at hiding scuffs and blemishes. If you prefer something a bit more neutral, Wren Kitchens also recommends trying raven black or charcoal. (And if you worry about turning your home into a cave, you could always stick to simply painting the lower cabinets, keeping the rest light, bright and airy.) Avoid high-gloss finishes, as they can show a dog’s nose smudges or tail swooshes easily.

If you’re renovating your kitchen, invest in durable flooring that can stand up to pets running in and out—and is easy to clean—like laminate or tile floors with dark grout. If you’re not planning on changing things out anytime soon (or you just want to make your kitchen a bit cozier), try a machine-washable rug. It’ll make cleanup way less of a hassle.

No matter how well behaved your pup is, it’s hard for a pet to resist the temptation of a trash can full of table scraps. Save yourself the frustration—and your pooch an upset stomach—by investing in a dog-proof trash can. You want to make sure the material is sturdy, so their paws can’t collapse it, and that the lid will stay on, even if they tip it over. Simplehuman’s stainless steel garbage cans are consistently well-reviewed by pet owners for their durability, though Glad also makes a top-reviewed model that’s less than half the price.