I think that wolves should be able to hold 1 item and depending on the item do different things. For example if i gave it a torch it would light the way as if it had been placed.
But not like pickaxes and they mine that would be cool but...but It doesn't work that way!
If you give it the drops of a mob it should mostly go after that mob unless your in danger.
Just somethin I though I should say.
I also don't see how it would work if you just gave the wolf a torch. You mentioned that if you gave him a pickaxe and he mined it wouldn't make sense. But i think that doesn't make sense eaither way. How would the wolf be able to hold it? How would he not end up setting himself on fire? And you cant really give them anything to let them hold items. I wouldn't mind seeing a mob that you can also get as a pet that carry's items for you. But this doesn't seem like something you would add in the full game. As a mod maybe....
Well considering that you said only hold one item, being abit of a thinker I would presume that you mean for the wolf to hold the item in its mouth. Which seems like the most logical answer to those who are wondering how a wolf might hold something. Though if it is holding an item in it's mouth it wouldn't be able to attack, therefore I would rather save my wolves for an army to fight with and instead have another animal/mob to carry a larger supply of items with.
well maybe when your caving, you might not want to go through the trouble of placing tons of torches, and would be able to handle mobs yourself.....great idea
But not like pickaxes and they mine that would be cool but...but It doesn't work that way!
If you give it the drops of a mob it should mostly go after that mob unless your in danger.
Just somethin I though I should say.
Notch: Poop