I put in a pretty high quality carpet in my house 26 years ago (Queen carpet), about 600 sq. ft. worth and paid $3000.00 then. I still have it and have had pets for many years. It's stood up very well, but is wearing in high traffic areas. I got a medium taupe colour that doesn't show dirt too easily and have shampooed it many times, although that does take the stain-resistance off and makes it get dirtier faster. I would suggest getting something that doesn't show footprints and when looking at samples, bend them backwards. You shouldn't see the backing and it's best if you have a hard time getting your fingernail down onto the backing. The denser it is, the less it will wear.