The rug color is a little lighter than shown when you first unroll it. I assume over time when the strands move around some, you'll see more of the dark. While the strands are soft, the backing is really stiff and hard. We will definitely be adding a thick pad to the rug to keep it from sliding and to make it softer to walk and sit on. On the other hand, the oldest dog went to it and immediately sat down on it. He will not sit on bare flooring so he definitely gives it five starts.. Patsy. Roswell, GA. Wed Sep 25 2019