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- rgoldstein1234
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Have you ever wished for a easy way to help your dog stay calm and connected to you when the world gets distracting?
One of my favorite training exercises is the 1-2-3 Pattern Game which I teach in my Basic Manners classes. The game is simple: count "1, 2, 3" in a calm, predictable rhythm, and on "3" your dog gets a treat.
Over time, dogs learn that "3" always predicts something good. The pattern becomes familiar and reliable, helping many dogs stay focused and confident in distracting environments.
Unlike a cue or command, the 1-2-3 Pattern Game doesn't ask your dog to do anything. Instead, it creates a predictable routine that can help reduce stress, build confidence, and strengthen your connection while out in the world.
Developed by Leslie McDevitt as part of her Control Unleashed program, the 1-2-3 Pattern Game is one of my favorite tools for helping dogs and their people navigate everyday challenges together.
Lets dive in.
What Is the 1-2-3 Pattern Game?
The 1-2-3 Pattern Game was developed by dog trainer Leslie McDevitt as part of her Control Unleashed program. At its core, the game is wonderfully simple:
You say, "One... Two... Three."
On "Three," your dog gets a treat.
That's it.
The magic comes from repetition. Over time, your dog learns that the count is predictable and that something good always happens when they hear "Three." This predictable pattern can help dogs stay engaged with their handler, even when the environment becomes distracting.
Its not a cue or a command. Unlike "sit" or "watch me," the 1-2-3 Pattern Game doesn't ask your dog to perform a behavior.
Instead, it provides a steady rhythm and predictable structure that many dogs find reassuring.
Why Does It Work?
Dogs thrive on patterns and predictability.
When your dog repeatedly hears "One... Two... Three" followed by a treat, they begin to anticipate that reward. The pattern becomes familiar and reliable, which can help reduce stress and uncertainty.
Many dogs start to think: "I know what's coming next."
That sense of predictability can be incredibly valuable when navigating busy sidewalks, veterinary clinics, training classes, or other environments that might otherwise feel overwhelming.
When Can You Use It?
The 1-2-3 Pattern Game can be helpful in many everyday situations:
Walking through mildly distracting environments
Passing people, dogs, bicycles, or golf carts at a comfortable distance
Entering a veterinary clinic
Waiting in a parking lot
Moving through pet stores or outdoor events
Helping your dog transition from excitement back to calm
The key is to use the game before your dog becomes overly excited, worried, or reactive. Think of it as a preventive tool NOT an emergency tool.
Teaching the 1-2-3 Pattern Game
Step 1: Start in a Quiet Place
Begin indoors where there are few distractions. Have a handful of treats ready. In a calm, steady voice say:
"One... Two... Three."
As soon as you say "Three," give your dog a treat. No matter what your dog is doing. Don't ask for "focus" or "watch" or expect anything. Give the treat on 3 nomatter what your dog is doing.
Repeat this 10–15 times.
Don't ask your dog to sit, make eye contact, or do anything else. Simply count and feed.
Your goal is for your dog to learn: Three always predicts a treat.
Step 2: Look for Understanding
After a few short practice sessions, many dogs begin to show signs that they're catching on.
You may notice your dog:
Looking toward you when they hear the count
Perking up at "One"
Moving closer as you approach "Three"
These are great signs that the pattern is becoming meaningful.
Step 3: Add Movement
Once your dog understands the game while standing still, begin practicing while walking.
Begin walking and count as you take each step:
"One... Two... Three."
Then deliver a treat.
Continue walking and repeat the pattern. I like to walk and count with each step. This way the pattern is encouraging hte dog to keep moving while focusing on you and this predictable, known routine.
There's no need for a perfect heel position. Your dog simply needs to stay near enough to receive the treat comfortably.
Step 4: Practice in Easy Outdoor Locations
When the game is going well indoors, move to a quiet outdoor environment such as:
Your driveway
A quiet sidewalk
A calm neighborhood street
The edge of a park
Keep practicing the pattern while your dog experiences mild distractions.
If your dog glances at a bird or stops to sniff, that's okay. Continue the count and deliver the treat on "Three."
Using the Game Around Distractions
Once your dog is comfortable with the pattern, you can begin using it around moderate distractions.
For example, if you see another dog across the street, begin counting BEFORE your dog becomes overly interested.
"One... Two... Three."
Treat.
Continue the pattern as you move through the situation.
If your dog remains relaxed and able to take treats, you're probably working at an appropriate distance.
If your dog becomes overly excited, barks, lunges, or refuses food, you're likely too close. Simply create more distance and try again.
Common Troubleshooting
My Dog Won't Take the Treat
Your dog may be too distracted or too close to something exciting or concerning.
Move farther away and try again. You can also experiment with higher-value treats such as chicken, cheese, or freeze-dried meat.
My Dog Gets Too Excited on "Three"
Some dogs become enthusiastic once they realize a treat is coming.
If your dog is jumping up or lunging to get the treat, make sure you are feeding the treat as low as you can, right near the dogs nose. Check your body language and make sure your hands are quiet and still without jerky movements that will confuse or excite your dog.
Another option is to toss the treat on the ground rather than delivering it from your hand. This often helps keep the dog's body calmer and encourages sniffing, which can be naturally relaxing.
My Dog Pulls Ahead During the Game
Slow your pace and deliver the treat closer to your side or slightly behind you. This helps reinforce staying connected during the walk.
A Simple Tool with Big Benefits
The 1-2-3 Pattern Game is one of those exercises that looks almost too simple to be useful—until you try it.
For many dogs, it becomes a familiar rhythm that helps them navigate the world with greater confidence. For handlers, it provides an easy way to maintain connection without constantly asking for obedience behaviors.
Whether you're working with a distracted puppy or a dog who gets excited on walks, or are simply looking for another way to build engagement, the 1-2-3 Pattern Game is a wonderful addition to your training toolbox.
Remember: start easy, keep the pattern predictable, and let the power of repetition do the work.
Reach Out for Help From A Rewards-Based Trainer
If you find that you need additional support, find a good rewards-based trainer in your area to help.
I'm a rewards-based trainer with a certifications from CATCH and I'm an ACK approved CGC Evaluator. I specialize in supportive and compassionate group training classes and private, in-home lessons. I offer variety of group classes at the Humane Society of Greater Savannah. My Basic Manners classes run for 6 weeks and are perfect whether you are new to training or you've been working with your dog for a while but would like a refresher and additional support. New sessions start every month.
I also offer in-home private lessons. I come to you and we work on issues that are most important to you and at the pace best suited to you and your dog.
Check out my website for more information on classes and lessons.
Suggested Reading & Credits
McDevitt, L. (2007). Control Unleashed: Creating a Focused and Confident Dog. Clean Run Productions.
McDevitt, L. (2018). Control Unleashed: Reactive to Relaxed. Clean Run Productions.
This information was adapted from https://phoenixdogtraining.com/leslie-mcdevitt-1-2-3-pattern-game/. There are additional details and a video available on that great website. I encourage you to check it out!
What is Enrichment and Why is it Important?
Is your dog chewing the furniture, digging at the rug, or nudging your arm every few minutes while you’re trying to work or relax?
It’s easy to label that behavior as "naughty", "needy", or "too much to handle". But your dog isn’t being “bad.” Your dog is probably bored.
As a rewards-based dog trainer working with families in the Savannah area, I see boredom as the root cause of many common challenges—chewing, counter surfing, mouthing, and general restlessness or inability to settle. Dogs absolutely need physical exercise like walks and playtime. But many well-meaning owners overlook something just as important: mental stimulation, also known as enrichment.
Dogs are natural problem-solvers. They’re built to sniff, lick, shred, chew, and think. When those needs aren’t met, they’ll create their own activities—and we don’t always appreciate the ones they choose.
Thoughtful enrichment can:
Reduce destructive behavior
Improve focus and impulse control
Lower overall stress
In this post, I’ll share simple enrichment ideas—both homemade and store-bought—that keep your dog’s mind, mouth, and nose busy, leading to calmer behavior and a more peaceful household.
As a note, I am not affiliated with any products or brands. I recommend them here because I have found they work well for my training clients.
Easy Enrichment You Can Do at Home
Find It! Game (Everyday Nose Work)
This is one of my favorite enrichment games because it’s simple, powerful, and free.
Hide treats in easy-to-find places around your home. Walk with your dog on leash, say “Find it!”, and point or tap near the treat. When your dog finds it, mark (“Yes!”) and let them eat.
At first, you’ll guide your dog from treat to treat. After a few rounds, most dogs will happily search independently—giving you a chance to cook dinner, answer emails, or just breathe.
To increase the challenge and the fun: Save your empty toilet paper rolls, put in a few yummy treats, fold over the ends, and hide those. Let your dog shake andpull them apart to get at the treats.
This game works your dog’s nose, brain, and natural foraging instincts, making it deeply satisfying and surprisingly tiring.
Snack Time Enrichment
A stuffed and frozen Kong or Pupsicle is a long-lasting enrichment activity that encourages licking, problem-solving, and calmer behavior. The steady, repetitive action of licking can help lower arousal, making these toys especially useful for teaching dogs how to settle.
Stuff a Kong with plain Greek yogurt, plain unsweetened peanut butter (or mix the two, a humane society favorite) or wet food and freeze it. Freezing is important for it can almost double how long it will last. I also really like the Pupsicle by Woof, which can be easier to clean than a Kong and works well with frozen homemade fillings or convenient store-bought inserts.
These stuffable toys are especially helpful:
During downtime, nap time, crate time
For dogs who struggle to settle
When visitors come over
Puzzle toys from Nina Ottosson are excellent for dogs who enjoy problem-solving. They come in multiple difficulty levels, which allows you to match the challenge to your dog’s experience. Start easy—frustration defeats the purpose. And remember, these are to be used under supervision, as some plastic parts may be removable and easily chewed.
Licki Mats are silicone mats with textured grooves. Spread wet food, pumpkin, yogurt, or peanut butter across the surface and freeze. Licking promotes calm behavior and can be especially helpful for:
Anxious dogs
Crate rest
Stressful situations
Many of my Savannah clients are surprised by how much calmer their dogs become after just a few minutes of focused licking.
Ditch the Bowl: Interactive Meal Times
A meal is a built-in opportunity for dog enrichment and boredom relief that happens twice a day—and most dog owners completely miss it. Instead of feeding from a bowl, interactive meal-dispensing toys turn mealtime into mental exercise by encouraging your dog to sniff, paw, nudge, forage and problem-solve for their food. This kind of enrichment taps into natural foraging instincts, helps slow down fast eaters, and provides meaningful mental stimulation.
The Orbee-Tuff Snoop by Outward Hound is a flexible pear shaped silcone vessel with a large hole at the top. You put kibble or treats inside and fold the top into the bottom. This creates a bowl that the dog much push, paw, or roll to access the food.
Another excellent option for interactive mealtime is a snuffle mat. Snuffle mats are designed with layers of felt, fabric, or silicone “fingers” or flaps that hide kibble throughout the mat. They encouraging your dog to sniff, search, and forage for their meal.
Both options provide a slow, nose-driven activity that taps into your dog’s natural instincts, helps fast eaters pace themselves, and provides calming mental enrichment.
Foraging Boxes are a fun DIY project that can be used with snack treats or an entire meal of kibble. Use a cardboard box or plastic tub, fill it with items your dog can nose, chew, or shred - like empty tissue boxes, crumpled brown packing paper, egg cartons, or empty plastic water bottles. You can also put in some of your dogs soft toys. Then sprinkle kibble or treats at the bottom of the box and inside some of the items and let your dog joyfully nose through the box searching for the food. Always supervise your dog during these sessions. If the dog wants to shake and shred some of the items, great! These are natural instincts and this is a perfect, acceptable outlet for these behaviors that your dog is genetically driven to do. A little owner-approved shredded cardboard to clean up is a small price to pay for a satisfied dog.
Trainer Tip: Don't be worried that Foraging Boxes will encourage your dog to destroy other boxes or everyday items. This is a treat/kibble motivated activity under owner supervision. Remember, a bored dog is a destructive dog. An engaged dog is a calm dog that is less likely to find their own trouble.
Enrichment Works Best When Paired With Thoughtful Training
Enrichment alone won’t fix every behavior issue. If you've tried these enrichment techniques and need more support, reach out to me. I offer group training classes as well as one-on-one in home private lessons tailored for your and your dog. Check out my offerings for puppies and adult dogs here.
I hope these enrichment ideas have sparked some inspiration. Try them and let me know which ones your dog likes best. I'd love to hear from you!
Warmly,
Ruth
Ruth Goldstein Dog Training