Britain is officially a nation of “pet parents,” and it’s transforming how we design and decorate our homes. According to new research from Dulux, released ahead of Pet Parents Day, pets are no longer just part of the household — they’re influencing everything from layout to colour palettes.
Marking 65 years of the iconic Dulux Dog, the study reveals a cultural shift where furry companions are at the heart of modern living. From stylish pet nooks to paw-proof finishes, interiors are evolving to balance both aesthetics and practicality.
The Rise of the ‘Pet Parent’ Lifestyle
The numbers speak for themselves. Nearly two-thirds of Brits (64%) now identify as “pet parents,” with that figure jumping to 74% among younger adults aged 18–24.
This shift isn’t just semantic — it’s reshaping everyday decisions at home:
- 54% say their pet influences how they decorate
- 81% have created a dedicated space for their pet
- 19% have given their pet a room of their own
Much like buying a first home or starting a family, welcoming a pet is becoming a defining life milestone — one that’s changing how people design their spaces.
Search Trends Show Pet-First Living Is Here to Stay
Online behaviour reinforces the trend. Searches for terms like “pet-friendly furniture,” “pet-friendly rugs,” and “pet-friendly paint” are on the rise, signalling a growing demand for stylish yet practical interiors.
At the same time, safety is a priority. Pet owners are increasingly “pet-proofing” their homes, with spikes in searches for:
- Puppy-proof house
- Cat-proof balcony
- Dog-proof garden
It’s clear that functionality now goes hand-in-hand with design.
Pete Wicks Teams Up with Dulux
To bring the trend to life, TV personality and self-confessed “dog dad” Pete Wicks has partnered with Dulux to create a bespoke pet-friendly space inspired by his dogs.
The project includes a dedicated pet nook designed around his pets Rodney and Eric, with a tribute to his late French bulldog, Peggy. Using Dulux Easycare colours, the space blends calming tones with durable, wipeable finishes — proving that pet-friendly design doesn’t mean compromising on style.
Wicks explains that his dogs naturally influence how he approaches his home: they’re family, and their comfort matters just as much as aesthetics.
Why Pet-Friendly Design Matters More Than Ever
The research highlights how pets are shaping not just how homes look, but how they function:
- 32% of homeowners choose paint colours to complement their pet
- 27% prioritise durable, wipeable paint finishes
- 70% have had to repaint due to pet-related wear and tear
According to Dulux Creative Director Marianne Shillingford, modern interiors are becoming more holistic — designed to work for every member of the household, including pets.
Durability is key, but so is atmosphere. Colour, texture and finish all play a role in creating spaces that feel calm, comfortable and cohesive.
Inside the Dulux Dog’s Stylish Nook
Even the Dulux Dog has had a design upgrade. A bespoke nook tucked under the stairs features calming blue tones and a bright yellow doorway — colours that are visually engaging for dogs while remaining stylish for owners.
It’s a perfect example of how thoughtful design can cater to both pets and people.
4 Expert Tips for Creating a Pet-Friendly Home
Looking to upgrade your space? Marianne Shillingford shares her top tips for designing a pet nook that works:
1. Design Around Their Habits
Choose a spot your pet already loves — comfort starts with familiarity.
2. Balance Comfort and Style
Layer soft bedding and toys with colours that complement your interior.
3. Choose Durable Finishes
Opt for washable, tough paints like Dulux Easycare to handle everyday mess.
4. Use Pet-Friendly Colours
Dogs see blues and yellows best, so these tones can help create a calming environment.
The Future of Interiors Is Pet-Centred
As pet ownership continues to rise, it’s clear that our homes are evolving with it. Designing with pets in mind is no longer a niche idea — it’s becoming the norm.
With brands like Dulux leading the way, the future of interiors is about creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also practical, durable and inclusive of every member of the household — paws and all.
For more inspiration and to explore pet-friendly paint options, visit Dulux’s official site: https://www.dulux.co.uk/en/pet-parenthood
