17 home accessories for the design-conscious pet owner
Pet accessories are not always sympathetic to the rustic decoration of country homes. The house proud might balk at brightly-coloured plastic toys or lumpy, mud brown pet beds that flatten with time and use. Dog gates and cat litter trays are another story entirely.
But a lot of the best pet brands and retailers have become wise to the tastes of the design-conscious pet owner, responding with a wealth of stylish and discreet accessories that would fit seamlessly into most homes.
The once lumpy dog beds are now pillowy and upholstered in William Morris prints, ceramic water bowls replace the usual metal ones, and even the flimsy pet barriers have transformed into white wooden gates that wouldn’t look out of place in front of a thatched cottage.
There are some big names leading the charge – John Lewis are predictably ahead of the curve, Lords & Labradors have one of the largest selections of well-designed pet accessories, and retail giants like Pets at Home make it easy to buy in store and take your dog along for approval…
Below, we look at 17 brilliant finds across beds, bowls, blankets, scratching posts and even litter trays…
William Morris Pet Mattress Willow Bough Print
Designed by William Morris in 1887, Willow Boughs is the perfect expression of a love of nature and the countryside. Patterned fabric is always more forgiving of scratches and dirt and this has an anti-slip base for pets who favour a run and a jump into bed...
Personalised Polka Dot Large Pet Bowl
You can't beat Emma Bridgewater's personalised pottery. Have this sweet polka dot bowl decorated by hand with your pet's name.
$38.00 at emmabridgewater.co.uk
Slouchy Seagrass Low Storage Basket
A hefty seagrass storage basket designed to sit low to the floor to allow curious noses to pick out the right toys for playtime.
Barbour Waxed Cotton Dog Bed
This luxuriously padded bed has all the markers of a Barbour icon – a waxed cotton outer and tartan inner for dogs who love the countryside.
Organic Cotton Blanket Cory Beige Color
Pet blankets are invariably printed with illustrations of paws or bones that might feel too twee for your tastes. Something a bit more classic like this hypoallergenic, organic cotton throw with a lovely trim of blue doesn't even look designed for pets.
Day Bed in Velour Contrast
Charley Chau designs their day beds much like a sofa – the resilient velvety velour is more often found upholstering cushions, and it is filled like a sofa seat to stay soft and supportive over time. What all pets deserve.
Medium White Wooden Dog Gate
You often need help corralling curious puppies or keeping older dogs away from slippery floors or steep stairs. This sturdy wooden gate from Lords & Labradors can be used in doorways, hallways and stairways, and it doesn't detract from the design of your home.
$64.99 at lordsandlabradors.co.uk
Joules Floral Box Dog Bed
Not all dog beds have to be in muddy shades of brown or grey – this bright floral makes nap times suitably cheerful.
Helsinki The Ball Ivory Cat Scratch Post
You may need help in steering your cat's attention away from your sofa or carpets, and a scratching post makes for an excellent distraction. Crafted from solid wood with a textured sisal ball, it's understated and small enough to tuck into a discreet corner.
$39.99 at lordsandlabradors.co.uk
HAY Plaited Rope Dog toy
When HAY entered the world of pet accessories, we knew the collection would be colourful and covetable in equal measure. This hardy rope toy has been made from 100% recycled polyester.
Doggy Daycare Storage Tin
Plastic packaging is rarely welcome in country kitchens, so you can decant dried pet food into this handy tin from Sophie Allport with matching measuring scoop.
Woofins Small Dog Bed
Loaf are the purveyors of sink-in squidgy sofas, and their first dog bed has all the markers of a classic Loaf piece. Covers are extra durable and fully removable to make washing a doddle.
Enamel Storage Jar
The treat jar is an essential, but it needn't stand out from the rest of your kitchenware. This dishwasher safe, olive green enamel storage jar from Toast is perfect for stashing biscuits.
Wooden Cat Washroom
Litter trays are one of the least desirable aspects of cat ownership for the design-conscious pet parent. This wooden 'washroom' is a lovely and discreet solution.
Box Bed With Removable Covers in Rhino Tough
One of Lord & Labrador's bestsellers. The inner cushions are deeply filled, and its outer is made from a faux leather that is bleach cleanable, making it as practical as it is stylish.
Fruit Set Of Toys
Forgo all the plastic for a sweet set of four toys designed with snuffle pockets, squeakers and texture for enrichment.
Malmo Hammock Wall Climber
Ideal for cats who seek a luxurious spot to lounge. This wall-mounted hammock is crafted from a simple wood with a soft fabric for your cat to sink into.
$49.99 at lordsandlabradors.co.uk
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