I used to sell Bruce hardwood floors. Julie C. has great advice on cleaning them. Use a dust mop as needed and when mopping put your liquid in a spray bottle and use a damp mop. Avoid putting lots of moisture on them, it can cause them to warp. Make sure your house stays as dry as possible, too much humidity can make them warp. I knew a family that had gone on vacation in the summer and turned of the ac while they were gone, they came back to a mess and had to have them replaced. Do not go with a laminate floor, they look good,but do not hold up. Engineered hardwoods are harder than old fashioned hardwoods, but can only be refinished one or two times. They also are more moisture resistant. If you are worried about the dogs marring them up and small scratches, go with a more rustic look in the wood, it will disguise the inevitable everday marks. I love hardwoods and tile and have my whole main floor done in ceramic, I love it. With kids and animals there is no better option! Most people that i know of put thier furniture in the garage while floors were being installed, if that isnt an option, try cramming it into the basement and your other rooms. Dont worry about scratching the floors, it gives them great character!