top of the table

What does one do with the top of a dinner table when it is not in use?

I like the idea of having it permanently set with plates and all that but with el perro and los gatos, they'll get their hairs all over it and probably break something so NO.

I've been trying lots of stuff for the dining table. I bought a runner for $5 at Marshalls and put this stuff on it that I already had lying around and I like it for now.

I'm certain it will change.