1-2-3 Game: teaching Predictability
Imagine being in a world where everything feels unpredictable: sounds come out of nowhere, people approach without warning, and your environment constantly shifts. For sensitive dogs—especially those who are anxious, reactive, or overwhelmed by novelty—this is often their daily experience.
That’s where the 1-2-3 Treat Game, from Leslie McDevitt’s Control Unleashed, comes in. This deceptively simple exercise builds structure and predictability, helping sensitive dogs feel more in control and less anxious in challenging environments.
Why Predictability Matters
Dogs thrive on routine and clear communication. For sensitive dogs, uncertainty is often a major trigger for fear-based behaviors like barking, lunging, freezing, or retreating. When we offer a clear, consistent pattern, we reduce that uncertainty—and give the dog something they can count on.
The 1-2-3 Treat Game uses a predictable rhythm to:
Create calm anticipation instead of anxiety
Keep the dog engaged with their handler
Pair mildly stressful environments with positive experiences
Lay the groundwork for success in more difficult training scenarios
How the 1-2-3 Treat Game Works
It’s as simple as counting:
Step-by-step:
Say “One…”
Say “Two…”
Say “Three,” and immediately deliver a treat to your dog.
Repeat the sequence again and again: “One… Two… Three, treat.” The tone should be calm, rhythmic, and predictable. You can count in your head and say “Three” out loud if that helps keep your verbal cues minimal in public.
The magic is in the consistency. The dog learns that “Three” always means a treat is coming, and the pattern never surprises them.
When and Why to Use This Game
This game is especially helpful for:
Reactive dogs: Helps maintain focus and emotional regulation near triggers (other dogs, people, noises)
Fearful dogs: Adds structure in unfamiliar or unpredictable environments
Adolescents: Teaches impulse control and handler engagement
Any dog: As a warm-up game before more complex work
Common uses:
Passing other dogs on walks
Waiting in line at the vet
Sitting at a park bench and watching the world go by
Helping a nervous dog adjust to a new environment (for example, moving inside the house for former outdoor dogs)
Tips for Success
Start in a calm, low-distraction environment. Let your dog learn the pattern before using it in stressful situations.
Use high-value treats, especially in challenging settings. You want your dog to be motivated and focused.
Keep your rhythm slow and calm. Rushing through the count defeats the purpose.
Watch your dog’s body language. Ideally, you’ll see relaxed ears, soft eyes, and loose posture over time.
Pair with leash walking. Count steps or use the game to keep your dog engaged during a walk.
What Not to Do
Don’t use this game as a way to force your dog through overwhelming situations. If they’re over threshold, increase distance first.
Don’t let the rhythm fall apart—this game only works when it’s predictable.
Don’t wait for problem behavior to start. Use it preemptively to keep your dog regulated.
Real-Life Example
A client of mine had a reactive shepherd mix who barked and lunged at other dogs on walks. Using the 1-2-3 Treat Game, we taught her dog to focus on the count instead of scanning for triggers. We started from a distance and gradually worked closer to other dogs, with her dog eagerly waiting for “Three!” instead of reacting.
It didn’t cure reactivity overnight, but it gave her a powerful tool to prevent escalation and keep her dog below threshold—something every handler of a sensitive dog needs in their toolkit.
The 1-2-3 Treat Game is more than just a counting exercise—it’s a lifeline for dogs who struggle with a chaotic world. By giving them structure, predictability, and consistent reinforcement, we help them feel safe enough to learn, adapt, and thrive.
Give it a try with your dog—you might be surprised how something so simple can make such a big difference.
