Pattern Games for Focus
These structured, predictable games are designed to build confidence, reduce stress, and enhance focus for your dog. They’re simple to learn and can be used in everyday life to help your dog feel more comfortable and connected to you.
Why Use Pattern Games?
Predictability: The repetition of patterns helps dogs know what to expect.
Focus: These games channel your dog’s energy and attention in productive ways.
Connection & Communication: They strengthen your bond with your dog through shared, low-pressure interactions.
Where Do These Pattern Games Come From?
The pattern games we’ll talk about all come from the Control Unleashed program (and books!) by Leslie McDevitt
Game 1: Up-Down
Purpose: Helps your dog focus on you and the environment in a calm, controlled way.
Start Position: Have some small, tasty treats ready.
Drop a Treat: Place a treat on the ground in front of you, close to your feet and in front of your dog.
Pause: After your dog eats the treat, wait for them to look up at you. As soon as they look at you, say “Yes!” or click.
Repeat: Drop another treat in the same spot and wait for your dog to look back up at you again.
Tips:
Wait for them to look at you on their own instead of saying their name
Use this game to teach your dog to check in with you in distracting environments.
Game 2: Ping Pong
Purpose: Encourages movement while maintaining focus and confidence.
Start Position: Have treats in both hands.
Toss a Treat: Toss a treat to one side of your dog. Allow them to find and eat it.
Pause: Wait for them to look at you. As soon as they do say “yes” or click and toss a treat to the opposite side.
Repeat: Alternate tossing treats from side to side, creating a rhythm.
Tips:
Use this game to help your dog acclimate to new environments or redirect nervous energy.
Toss treats within a comfortable range to avoid overexcitation.
Game 3: Find It
Purpose: Engages your dog’s nose and provides a positive outlet for sniffing behavior.
Start Position: Hold a few treats in your hand.
Cue “Find It”: Drop a treat on the ground and say, “Find it!”
Encourage Search: Let your dog sniff and eat the treat.
Repeat: Drop treats in different spots nearby, gradually increasing the challenge, or make it slightly harder by tossing it slightly further away.
Tips:
Use this game to keep your dog engaged during downtime or to distract them from triggers.
Vary the difficulty by hiding treats in grass or around objects.
Game 4: 1-2-3 Treat
Purpose: Builds focus, impulse control, and engagement while introducing movement.
Start Position: Hold a treat in you closed hand.
Step 1: Say “3,” then open the hand and give the dog the treat. Repeat 5 times.
Step 2: Practice saying “2, 3,” then open the hand and give the dog the treat. Repeat 5 times.
Step 3: Add “1, 2, 3” before opening the hand and giving the treat. Repeat 5 times.
Add Movement: Once the dog understands the pattern, practice walking backward slowly while saying “1, 2, 3” and giving the treat.
General Guidelines for Pattern Games
Remain Predictable: Keep movements slow and consistent.
Short Sessions: Keep sessions brief and end on a positive note.
High-Value Treats: Use treats your dog loves to maximize engagement.
Practice Regularly: Incorporate these games into your daily routine for the best results.
Observe Your Dog: Watch for signs of stress or overexcitement and adjust accordingly.
Set Your Dog Up For Success: Start with low distractions and increase slowly, always set your dog up for success!
Pattern Games are an excellent way to teach your dog how to handle challenging environments and focus on you.