You could install a porcelain wood-look tile, which would be more durable (will not be scratched by the dogs' nails, etc.) than hardwood and easy to clean & maintain. There are lots of different styles on the market such as more rustic, barnwood looks to contemporary, consistent coloring. Visit www.GSTile.com for options/ ideas.

Engineered has come along way and in some instances even to trained eye can't tell the difference. Engineered is way more durable to moisture and scratches and indents. A newly installed hardwood within weeks would show the dog nail scratches ect. In any colour choice. Houzz has some great articles on the subject. Good luck in helping your husband see why engineered is the way to go!

American walnut in all one width or random width plank. Site finish and then self-distress it before stain and final coats of water born finish. Roll large rock, use random tools with various edges and literally drop rock and roll . Be careful if using chains as these can leave bird track type patterns. The result is a rich darker wood with a relaxed, distressed look. Great for a beach house filled with two and four legged kids.

The Luxury Vinyl Planks are very durable, easy to clean and maintain. They are warmer and quieter than the porcelain planks and have no grout. But with my jumbo dog, I appreciate that they have enough texture to make them non-slip. The glue-down types are water-proof with dog accidents, and in our situation were laid over the dreaded 50 year old 9" asbestos tile and asbestos mastic.