Honestly I'd rather have area or throw rugs on a hard floor. Not always an option, or not economically feasible if you don't already have a good foundation for it, but hardwood and tiled floors are usually easier to clean..and are also better for people who wear their shoes in the house.

Carpets end up ruined from rain and mud, even if you are vigilant about cleaning them which takes more specialized hardware such as an extractor.

+1 to hard floors.