New Safety Standards for Small Dogs: Anti-Slip Floor Tiles Introduced by Riviera

Ensuring Safety for Small Dogs: Riviera's New Anti-Slip Tile Standard

In a bid to enhance safety for small dogs, Riviera Co., Ltd., located in Shizuoka, Japan, is set to roll out a new anti-slip rating standard known as "C.S.R・D'" on April 2025. This initiative aims to provide pet owners with reassurance by evaluating the slip-resistance of flooring materials tailored specifically for pets. The company will label 81 series of floor tiles across 23 different types with a pet-friendly mark, signifying compliance with their new safety measure.

The decision to adopt this standard stems from a growing concern about the high rate of injuries sustained by dogs on slippery indoor floors, which can exert undue pressure on their knees and hips. With approximately 90% of households in Japan now opting to raise dogs indoors, as per the 2024 National Dog and Cat Ownership Survey by the Pet Food Association, the need for safer living environments has become paramount.

Historically, flooring selections were primarily based on hygiene and ease of cleaning, often leading to choices that inadvertently created slippery surfaces. This can pose substantial risks for small breeds, which are known for their fragile bone structure and weaker joints. Falls and fractures can occur when a small dog navigates a slick surface, making it essential to rethink pet living conditions to incorporate more slip-resistant flooring options.

Riviera received numerous customer inquiries highlighting a shift in perspective towards pets being integral family members, further propelling the pursuit of improved living standards. Previously, the company followed the German standard for slip resistance evaluation (DIN51130), classifying tiles rated R10 and above as suitable for pets. However, the increasing number of customers expressing a desire to prioritize their pets' safety prompted Riviera to introduce the specialized anti-slip value targeted at small dogs.

The newly defined "C.S.R・D'" rating signifies a slip resistance value of 0.394 or above, ensuring that dogs can start running without losing their footing 84.1% of the time. It is important to note that while this value aims to reflect safety, individual conditions such as different environments and paw cleanliness can affect performance. This new standard will categorize products from the existing 76 types to 81 types under specific conditions that align directly with the requirements for small dog safety.

Recommended Areas for Installation

The selected areas where these tiles can be advantageous for pet safety include:

- Living Room Pet Spaces
- Toilet Areas
- Entrances and Hallways
- Terraces

Tiles That Meet the New Standard

1. BLENDED: A modern tile collection inspired by various stones, offering a balanced blend of colors and elegant textures while promoting a natural aesthetic.
- Size: [30×60][60×60]cm
- Colors: White, Gray, Beige, Natural, Dark
- Price: ¥7,800/m² [¥1,389/piece]~

2. HYBRID: This tile showcases a delicate stone design that adds elegance and character to any space while ensuring seamless integration across its edges.
- Size: [30×60][60×60][60×120]cm
- Colors: White, Beige, Light Gray, Black
- Price: ¥11,200/m² [¥2,009/piece]~

3. BRICKLANE: Capturing the essence of London's Brick Lane, this tile features a stylish coloration and texture, suitable for both classic and modern interiors.
- Size: [30×60][60×60]cm
- Colors: Light Gray Matte, Dark Gray Matte, Noicha Matte
- Price: ¥10,900/m² [¥1,942/piece]~

Advantages of Using Riviera's Ceramic Tiles

The tiles provided by Riviera feature low water absorption rates, making them easy to clean and maintain. Their high thermal conductivity allows for efficient heating, ensuring that they remain comfortable even on cooler days. They also exhibit excellent durability against scratches and wear, making them a long-lasting option ideal for homes with pets. Furthermore, these tiles maintain a pleasantly cool surface, helping to counteract heatstroke in pets during warmer months.

Riviera Co., Ltd. was established in 1997 and specializes in direct imports and sales of ceramic tiles and natural stone building materials from Europe, primarily Italy. With ten distribution centers nationwide, they ensure prompt service and year-round availability of their products. The company's tiles are currently featured in over 50,000 new homes annually, highlighting their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

In conclusion, Riviera's introduction of the new slip resistance evaluation standard is a significant step towards creating safer living conditions for small dogs. Enhanced understanding among pet owners regarding their furry friends' needs plays a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being of pets and fostering a more responsive market for pet-friendly solutions.