Remember to match the toy size to the dog size. Large toys for large dogs will help to prevent accidental breakage, or swallowing of all or part of the item. Any toy with parts that could be pulled off (buttons, bells, ribbons, squeakers etc.) should be avoided. Rubber dumbbells, large rubber balls, and toys that can fly, such as Frisbees® all provide excellent entertainment and exercise.
Rawhide chew toys shaped like shoes should be avoided, as they can potentially breed unwanted behavior. Recently, certain chewies, such as pig's ears, have been found to have bacterial contamination. Steps are being taken by the manufacturers to rectify this problem, but be aware that there is no guarantee that rawhide-type chews are clear of contamination. The processed chewbones, with compressed rawhide are less likely to be affected because of processing, and they are harder for the puppy to break apart into chunks (choke risk). Any solid, safe toy that encourages chewing helps the puppy express natural chewing behavior.