In this level, you will teach your puppy or dog three important concepts: how to listen, how to think, and how to communicate. You will set up a predictable, consistent communication system so that your dog will be able to learn more quickly. Your dog will learn that trying new things can earn a reward. He will learn that getting closer to doing what you want gets him more treats and that when he does exactly what you want, he will get several small treats in a row a jackpot. When training sessions are over, it's a good idea to tell your dog that the opportunity to earn is done. I do this by saying all done and signing the American Sign Language sign for all done. One of my students found that transitioning into playtime after a training session helps her dog understand that training time is done.

At the beginning of each level, you will find a printable file containing the homework for that level. In level zero, however, there isn't much homework, so I combined the printout with the homework for level 1, that way you can see what is coming. As a bonus, I also included two tasks in the level zero homework that I think are important, but don't require much instruction. You need to teach your puppy his name if he doesn't already know it, and if you have a young puppy, you need to get him used to be handled every day. Touch his feet, look in his ears, brush his hair, make him think that having people groom him is a wonderful part of life. I recommend printing out the homework files and keeping them in a binder. Mark off what you have completed on the checklists, and make notes about successes to share and questions to ask. As you progress through the levels, you will be able to look back and see how far you have come.