It can simply mean that the pup is too young to know what to do with it! The dogs are known to be food lovers. If you have food or any kind of treat in your hand, your dog will drop the ball towards the food. It can also happen that your dog doesn't understand how to carry the ball and run. There are a few common reasons your dog doesn't bring the ball back to you. He thinks that returning the ball to you can end the game. Your dog is not interested in playing or is tired. They don't know how to carry the ball and run as they are young. He is possessive of the ball. He doesn't understand your expectations.  He thinks that the game is chasing and not fetching.  These can be the reasons why your dog is dropping the ball away from you. By understanding what the dog thinks, you can change his behavior and play with him.