It's OK to let them catch and/or completely shred the flag. Or even pull the course apart in their "victory" of a job well done! Praise them and join in their enthusiasm and fun! They're proud of themselves and you should be proud of them! Then - while they're getting a rest and drink of water - set the course back up - tie on a new flag - and do it all over again!
The flag is compostable (it's made from maize flour) and printed with infant safe ink. You can just pick up the pieces after you finish playing, or let nature take care of it.
If your pup won't leave the flag alone once they've captured it - our best advice is to let them catch and completely shred the flag if they want to - that's their reward for a job well done, and a big part of the fun for them!
If your pup is focusing on the main drive instead of the flag - we advise trying to redirect their attention to the flag. One way to do this is to slow the flag down at a point where they can catch it away from the machine, this helps to keep the focus on the flag. Also let them catch the flag often, and when possible - start moving the flag as soon as they drop it to resume play. This helps them realize that dropping it means more fun - and it keeps their attention on the flag.
Be sure to allow them to catch the flag within the 90 second play session. For them, that's the whole point!