I would imagine that paint will come up when your dogs nails scratch across it?

We most commonly re-finish and install new wood to match the rest of the house. If wood in the kitchen is not your thing, I would suggest a porcelain tile. It's durable and easy to clean.

I’m stuck with the same question. I would love black slate tile but it would show every speck of dirt or whatever, wouldn’t it? Is there anything in tile that isn’t a solid color that would look good with white cabinets and somewhat busy countertops?

https://www.msistone.com/ceramic/belmond/

https://www.msistone.com/ceramic/turin/

https://www.msistone.com/granite-tile/

https://www.msistone.com/travertine/silver-shadow/

Don't do pure black! Especially if you have dogs. You will see everything. It's just like owning a black car. I would suggest porclain tile, in the slate color family. Here's a picture of tile I chose for my personal kitchen. (this when we were still renovating, notice no backsplash). But this tile is the BEST! it feels great on bare feet, and it never shows anything!!! Even with a dog and toddler. :p

looks fantastic, thanks for the tip

We did that in an entry way and loved it.....blended colors hid all the dirt and it was a fun pattern too.