If you’re shopping for a cowhide rug, you’ve probably noticed a wide range of prices and styles. Some look incredibly authentic, while others seem almost too perfect. That’s because not all cowhide rugs are real.

With synthetic “cow print” rugs and printed imitations flooding the market, it’s becoming harder for buyers to tell the difference between a genuine cowhide rug and a fake one. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to identify authentic cowhide, why real hides are superior, and what to watch out for before making a purchase in Australia.

Why This Matters When Buying a Cowhide Rug

A genuine cowhide rug is a natural product. It is durable, unique, and long-lasting. A fake cowhide rug, on the other hand, is usually a synthetic rug printed with a cow pattern. While imitations may look similar in photos, they perform very differently over time.

Choosing the wrong one can mean:

• Reduced durability

• Faster wear and tear

• Artificial texture

• Shorter lifespan

• Lower resale value

Understanding the difference protects your investment.

What Is a Real Cowhide Rug?

A real cowhide rug is made from 100% genuine cattle hide that has been professionally tanned and treated. The tanning process preserves the leather while maintaining the natural hair and markings.

Because it comes from a real animal, each hide has:

• Natural irregular shape

• Unique color variations

• Organic hair texture

• Authentic leather backing

No two genuine cowhide rugs are identical. Explore our premium cowhide rugs in Australia to see authentic natural variations.

What Is a Fake Cowhide Rug?

A fake cowhide rug is typically:

• Synthetic material (polyester, acrylic, or polypropylene)

• Printed with a cow pattern

• Machine-shaped into a uniform outline

• Backed with fabric instead of leather
  

They are often marketed as “cow print rugs” or “cowhide style rugs.” While cheaper, they lack the natural qualities that make a real cowhide rug special.

10 Ways to Tell if a Cowhide Rug Is Real or Fake

1. Check the Backing

The simplest way to identify a genuine cowhide rug is by turning it over.

Real cowhide:

• Has a suede-like leather backing

• Feels natural and slightly textured

Fake cowhide:

• Has fabric, mesh, or synthetic backing

• Looks machine-stitched
  
  

If it doesn’t look like leather, it’s not real.

2. Look at the Shape

Genuine cowhide rugs have irregular, organic shapes. The outline follows the animal's natural hide.

Fake rugs often have:

• Symmetrical shapes

• Perfectly curved edges

• Identical outlines across multiple products
  

Natural hides are never perfectly uniform.

3. Inspect the Pattern Closely

A real cowhide rug has natural color variation. Even black and white cowhide rugs show subtle differences in shading.

Fake rugs usually have:

• Repeating printed patterns

• Identical spots or markings

• Flat-looking colors

If multiple rugs have identical markings, they are likely printed.

4. Feel the Texture

Authentic cowhide has a soft, natural hair texture. It feels warm and organic to the touch.

Synthetic rugs often feel:

• Artificially smooth

• Plastic-like

• Less breathable
  

  

Texture is one of the biggest giveaways.

5. Smell the Rug

This might sound unusual, but smell matters.

Real cowhide rugs may have a subtle leather scent.
Fake rugs often have a chemical or plastic odor.

A strong synthetic smell is a warning sign.

6. Check the Edges

On genuine cowhide rugs, the edges are natural and not stitched.

Fake rugs often:

• Have stitched or overlocked edges

• Show signs of manufacturing

Authentic cowhide rugs maintain their natural hide perimeter.

7. Test the Weight

Real cowhide rugs are heavier than synthetic rugs because leather has natural density.

Fake rugs tend to feel lighter and less substantial.

8. Examine the Price

While price alone isn’t proof, extremely cheap “cowhide rugs” are often synthetic.

A genuine cowhide rug involves:

• Livestock sourcing

• Professional tanning

• Quality inspection

These processes add cost. If the price seems too low, it probably isn’t real.

9. Ask About Origin and Tanning

Reputable sellers can tell you:

• Where the hide was sourced

• How was it tanned

• Whether it is ethically produced

Transparency is a sign of authenticity.

10. Check Product Photos

Genuine cowhide rug sellers often photograph each individual hide because no two are the same.

If a store uses the same stock image repeatedly, it may be synthetic.

Why Real Cowhide Rugs Are Worth It

Now that you know how to identify a fake, let’s talk about why genuine cowhide rugs are superior.

1. Long Lifespan

A well-maintained cowhide rug can last 10+ years.

2. Natural Durability

Cowhide is resistant to wear and flattening, making it ideal for living rooms and offices.

3. Unique Character

Each hide has one-of-a-kind markings.

4. Timeless Style

Cowhide rugs remain stylish year after year, unlike trend-based synthetic rugs.

Real vs Fake Cowhide Rug: Side-by-Side Comparison

Why Authentic Cowhide Rugs Perform Better in Australian Homes

Australian interiors often feature:

• Timber flooring

• Open-plan layouts

• High-traffic living areas

A genuine cowhide rug holds up better in these environments. It resists flattening and maintains its appearance even in busy households.
Here are some tips for caring for a cowhide rug to keep it in good condition.

Synthetic rugs, especially printed ones, can fade, peel, or wear down faster.

Ethical Concerns: Real vs Fake

Many buyers assume synthetic rugs are more ethical. However, genuine cowhide rugs are typically by-products of the meat industry. They are not produced solely for decorative purposes.

When responsibly sourced and professionally tanned, cowhide rugs can be a sustainable option. Learn more in our guide to Are Cowhide Rugs Worth It in Australia?

When Might a Fake Cowhide Rug Be Acceptable?

There are situations where a synthetic rug might suit someone’s needs:

• Temporary décor

• Budget restrictions

• Rental properties

However, if you are investing in long-term interior quality, a genuine cowhide rug is the better choice.

How to Buy a Genuine Cowhide Rug with Confidence

Before purchasing:

• Confirm leather backing

• Ask for real product photos

• Check seller transparency

• Read customer reviews

• Avoid suspiciously low prices

Reputable Australian retailers provide full transparency about sourcing and tanning.
If you're not sure about size, check out the cowhide rug size guide for any space.

Editor’s Pick: Genuine Cowhide Rugs in Australia

Looking for authentic hides?

Our collection includes:

• Black & white cowhide rugs

• Brown and brindle cowhide rugs

• Tri-color natural hides

Each rug is individually photographed and carefully selected for quality.

👉 Browse our full cowhide rug collection to view genuine hides available now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are fake cowhide rugs common in Australia?

Yes, especially online marketplaces where synthetic “cow print” rugs are often labeled as cowhide.

Can fake cowhide rugs look realistic?

From a distance, yes. Up close, differences in texture and backing become clear.

Is a real cowhide rug more expensive?

Yes, but the durability and longevity justify the investment.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing between a real and fake cowhide rug, the difference goes beyond appearance. A genuine cowhide rug offers durability, authenticity, and long-term value that synthetic alternatives simply cannot match.

Understanding how to identify authentic hides ensures you make a confident purchase and invest in a décor piece that will last for years.