1. Collect Tokens

Each player chooses a color and takes all 8 tokens of that color (4 circular and 4 square).

Arrange the Starting Tiles

Draw 3 dog tiles at random and lay them faceup next to each other in the middle of the play area, in any order. These dogs do not need to match. These are the starting tiles that players will make matches with.

Deal the Tiles

Shuffle the remaining dog tiles facedown and give each player 2 tiles. Players may look at their own tiles but should keep them hidden from other players.

Form the Draw Pile

Place the stack of remaining dog tiles facedown near the starting tiles. This will be the draw pile.

5. Determine 1st Player

The player who owns the most dogs (in real life) goes first.