The 123 Game, A Simple Pattern for Calm Focus
What Is the 123 Game?
The 123 game is another pattern game from Leslie McDevitt and Control Unleashed.
Unlike LAT, which focuses on observing triggers, 123 is about rhythm and predictability.
You count. Your dog learns that something good happens on three.
It creates structure in uncertain environments.
Why Pattern Games Matter
Dogs feel safer when the world is predictable.
Reactive dogs often struggle because the environment feels chaotic.
The 123 game creates a clear sequence:
One
Two
Three → Food
The repetition lowers arousal and anchors the dog to you.
How to Teach the 123 Game
Start indoors.
Say “one”
Say “two”
Say “three” and deliver food
Repeat.
Soon your dog will anticipate the reward at three.
You can then:
Walk while counting
Deliver food at your side
Reinforce position and engagement
Taking It Outside
Use 123:
When approaching a mildly challenging area
When passing something distracting
When your dog is starting to feel unsure
It works well in motion. It keeps your dog’s brain occupied.
The Key Difference Between LAT and 123
Although both come from the same system, they serve different purposes.
Look at That
Focuses on observing the trigger
Changes emotional response
Encourages processing
123 Game
Focuses on you
Provides rhythm and predictability
Helps move through situations
Think of LAT as “notice and think”.
Think of 123 as “stay with me, we’ve got this”.
Often they work beautifully together.
For example:
Use LAT at a distance to help your dog observe another dog calmly
Switch to 123 as you walk past
When to Use 123
Use it when:
You need to move past something
Your dog benefits from structure
You want to prevent escalation
You are rebuilding confidence
It is particularly helpful for dogs who feel anxious in open or busy spaces.
Common Mistakes
Counting too fast
Skipping reinforcement
Using it when the dog is already over threshold
Expecting it to “fix” reactivity on its own
It is a support tool, not a magic switch.
Safety and Support
If your dog reacts intensely, cannot disengage, or shows aggressive behaviour, seek help from a qualified force free behaviourist.
Pattern games are powerful, but complex cases require assessment.
Final Thoughts
The 123 game is simple. That is its strength.
When the world feels unpredictable, your counting becomes a steady rhythm your dog can trust.
Used thoughtfully, it builds confidence and connection.
If you want to help your dog calmly observe triggers rather than move past them, read my guide to the Look at That game next.
