Roughly 71 million U.S. households have pets, and anyone living in those homes knows that sharing space with animals can be a real beast.

Muddy paw prints, scratches and scuffs and, of course, unsightly stains from those occasional accidents can all take their toll, especially on floors.

Fortunately, the latest innovations in laminate flooring are throwing pet owners a bone.

Practically pooch-proof, laminate flooring won’t fade, dent or scratch like solid wood, won’t yellow or tear like vinyl and is more comfortable on paws than ceramic — which can be cold, hard and difficult to clean.

In fact, the nation’s leading product review and testing magazine recently named laminate floors a “smart option” because they give “more toughness for your buck when it comes to spills and scratches.”

The following are just a few reasons why laminate floors are going to the dogs — or at least to the homes of pet owners:

Claw resistance

No matter how often those nails are clipped, an overexcited puppy is bound to stumble and scratch its way across a room.

Offering superior scratch resistance, laminates won’t wear through, scuff or fade over time, no matter how many games of fetch you play.

And laminate floors never need waxing, polishing or refinishing, allowing more quality time with man’s best friend.

Piddle proof

Pet owners realize that occasional accidents are inevitable. With laminate floors, there’s no need to send Rover to the doghouse.

Simply wipe with a damp cloth or mop.

For deep cleaning, a mixture of water and vinegar is recommended. Stay away from chemical-based cleaning solutions because they can leave a dulling film on the floor’s surface.

Animal magnetism

Thanks to recent design innovations, the quality and variety of today’s laminate finishes are virtually limitless — with realistic colors and textures that could fool Mother Nature herself.

In fact, consumers routinely mistake laminates for higher-priced wood, ceramic or stone alternatives.

Laminates also are available in a wide array of colors, including rustic whitewashed looks, contemporary dark oaks and even exotic bamboos. These stylish choices allow the floor to direct the decor of a room