Yep, tile comes in all different textures and visuals. Something with a "slate" type finish might stop the dog from skidding around corners. I would start at the lumber yards like Depot, Rona etc... They will be about as competitively priced as anyone out there. If they don't have something you like then head to the flooring dealers. What area of town are you in? I can give you the names of some showrooms that will be close to you. Be prepared to pay more to a flooring dealer but at least you will get what you want.
If you go with large format tiles you should give some thought to a professional installation. A DIY'er can get in over their head a lot of the time.
Check out some of FG's work in this thread:
http://forum.calgarypuck.com/showthread.php?t=44188