Well, you must appreciate that we train dogs using various stimulants and one of those is through play. 'Tug of war' is a very enjoyable game for the puppy and he learns very quickly that it is OK to bite and then to pull away from you. This is fine when the toy you're playing with is a rag or is specially made, but when your puppy decides to play tug of war with your trouser leg, another item of clothing, or worse still your friend or neighbours arm - then you could be in for a lot of trouble!

Another problem that could arise from this game is that you are also teaching your dog to pull away from you with an article in his mouth. You are therefore also teaching your dog NOT to retrieve an article, but to run off or stand just out of reach with the retrieve article in his mouth instead of bringing the article to you.