From the training I have done with dogs....Never leave out a dish full of food! My dogs are feed twice daily. From what we have learned they then "know" if they listen a "special treat" is in order. My husband & I can point with only our fingers (usually do not have to say anything with vocal words) and dogs know what to do...and when they do, they get a special treat! Water is out for them all day "that is a must"! We have raised and sold alot of dogs, alot of people have called back saying that our puppies are so smart and very easy to train. Brag'g here but one of our dogs even says "I want one" and of course he knows that by saying this...he gets a special treat. Dogs are very smart and I feel they should be treated as a human...and you & I know that when "someone is treated withy repect" you get great rewards :) Good luck PM me if I can help you with anything.