Dog on the Sofa? Here's What You Really Need to Know

There’s something about the sofa that’s irresistible to a dog. Maybe it’s the warmth, the scent of their humans, or simply the elevation that makes them feel like royalty surveying their kingdom. But as any dog owner knows, once a dog claims the couch as their throne, getting them off it can feel like trying to evict a very furry (and extremely stubborn) tenant.

So, what’s the real story behind dogs and sofas? Should we be letting our pups lounge freely, or drawing a firm boundary with the throw pillows? Let’s unpack the pros, the cons, the practical fixes, and yes—even the best fabric for homes where dog hair is part of the décor.

Should You Let a Dog on the Sofa? It’s Complicated…

Let’s start with the age-old dilemma: is it okay to let your dog on the sofa?

Some say absolutely—dogs are family, after all. Others argue it’s a slippery slope to bad behaviour, ruined upholstery, and dominance issues. But the truth? It’s not black and white.

Letting your dog on the sofa is a personal choice, not a universal rule.

What matters most is consistency. If one person in the household allows it and another shouts them off, your dog will be as confused as a dachshund in a snowstorm. Dogs thrive on clear expectations, and inconsistency breeds anxiety or disobedience.

Letting Your Dog on the Sofa: Pros

• Bonding: Snuggling up builds closeness and trust.
• Comfort: Older or anxious dogs often find comfort in human scent.
• Inclusion: For many pets, being near you is all they want.

Keeping Dogs Off the Sofa: Pros

• Hygiene: Less fur, dander, and the occasional mysterious stain.
• Behavioural boundaries: Helps prevent over-attachment or territorial issues.
• Furniture longevity: Sharp claws and slobber aren’t exactly kind to fabric.

Bottom line? If your dog is calm, clean, and respectful of space, there’s no harm in couch cuddles—as long as you’re okay with it.

How to Stop a Dog Getting on the Sofa Without Causing a Household Revolt

So, you’ve decided to implement a “no dogs on the furniture” policy. Maybe it’s because you’ve just bought a beautiful new velvet sofa, or maybe your pup sheds like it’s their job.

Here’s the key: prevention beats correction. It’s far easier to set boundaries early than retrain behaviour that’s become routine.

Step-by-step Guide:

• Create an appealing alternative: Dogs don’t jump on sofas just to spite you—they want comfort. Invest in a raised dog bed with a soft cover or a memory foam dog bed near the couch. Make it irresistible with a warm blanket or even an old jumper that smells like you.
• Block access: If you’re not home to enforce the rule, use furniture blockers like upside-down chairs, pet gates, or even non-slip mats with texture they dislike (aluminium foil works surprisingly well).
• Reward good decisions: When your dog chooses their bed over the couch, praise them like they’ve just won a Nobel Prize in Good Behaviour.
• Use a clear command: “Off” should be short, firm, and unemotional. Don’t shout—just give the cue and redirect them.
• Be consistent: Don’t bend the rule just because they’re doing the sad-eyes thing. Dogs are master manipulators (with paws), and one exception will undo weeks of training.

How to Stop a Dog Jumping on the Sofa (Especially When You’re Not Looking)

Jumping up is a whole different beast. Puppies do it out of playfulness. Teenagers do it for attention. Older dogs? Usually out of habit.

Here’s how to put a stop to the Olympic-level sofa dives:

• Catch them in the act: If you only react after they’re already curled up, it’s too late. Dogs associate consequences with immediate actions.
• Don’t punish—redirect: Instead of shouting or pushing them off, calmly say “off” and guide them to their own bed. Then praise.
• Tether training: If your dog can’t resist jumping up when guests arrive, tether them nearby so they learn to stay grounded.
• Ignore attention-seeking: Some dogs jump because it gets them noticed. Don’t reward bad behaviour with scolding—it’s still attention.

Pro Tip: For dogs who just love jumping, tire them out with physical play and mental enrichment. A well-exercised dog is far less likely to launch themselves onto your Chesterfield at full speed.

What Fabric is Best for Dogs on a Sofa? (Hint: Avoid Anything Fluffy and White)

If you’ve resigned yourself to living with a dog on the couch, then the next logical step is choosing a sofa that won’t fall apart faster than your willpower.

Here’s a breakdown of sofa fabrics from best to worst for dog owners:

Best Dog-Friendly Sofa Fabrics:

Leather: Wipes clean, repels fur, and can handle claws (to an extent). Go for distressed or top-grain leather—it hides scratches better.

Microfibre / Microsuede: Soft, tightly woven, and resistant to stains and scratches. Plus, it doesn’t trap hair like other materials.

Outdoor Fabrics (e.g. Sunbrella): Originally made for patio furniture, but increasingly used indoors. Water-resistant, fade-proof, and ridiculously durable.

Canvas / Denim: More casual, but excellent for homes with active dogs. Machine-washable slipcovers available.

Worst Fabrics for Dogs:

• Velvet: Gorgeous but impractical. It traps fur and holds onto odours like a sponge.
• Silk or Linen: Delicate, stains easily, and shows every claw mark and drool trail.
• Wool blends: Not very forgiving with smells or snagging.

Bonus Tip: Buy washable slipcovers, use throws, and vacuum regularly with a pet-hair brush head. You’ll thank yourself.

The Middle Ground: Sharing the Sofa Without Losing Control

Let’s be honest—some dogs are going to end up on the sofa, no matter what. But there’s a middle ground that keeps peace in the household and cushions intact.

Tips for Co-Existing with a Sofa-Happy Dog:

• Designate a dog spot: Use a special blanket or cushion where they’re allowed to lie.
• Permission-only rule: Teach your dog to wait for an invite before hopping up.
• Regular grooming: Less shedding = cleaner furniture.
• Weekly wipe-downs: Keep pet-safe wipes or a spray bottle handy for quick cleans.
• Couch-to-crate habit: Train a cue like “all done” to get your dog off the sofa and into their bed or crate for rest.

Letting your dog on the sofa—or not—isn’t about right or wrong. It’s about balance. If it makes your home feel warmer, go for it. If it drives you up the wall, that’s fine too.

Just remember: dogs don’t need furniture to feel loved. They need boundaries, consistency, and most of all—your presence.

Whether your dog’s on the sofa beside you or snoozing at your feet, they’re right where they want to be.