123 123 Game
About this Pattern
The 123-123 Game is a Wiggle Butt Academy variation of the classic 123 Pattern Game designed to help dogs process their environment without going over threshold. Instead of stopping when a dog looks at a stimulus, the handler incorporates a mental pause while continuing to walk, allowing the dog to look at a stimulus for up to three seconds before initiating the 123 Pattern Game. This combination helps the dog process the environment while maintaining forward momentum and control.
Instructions
You will first teach the 123 pattern then practice it in the 123 123 format.
Step 1: Teach the basic 123 Pattern (click for instructions)
Step 2: Teach the 123 123 Version
Step 1: Count While Walking
When a stimulus appears (e.g., another dog, person, or object), continue walking at a calm, steady pace while silently counting "1, 2, 3" in your head.
Allow your dog to look at the stimulus during these three seconds, as long as they remain calm and below threshold.
Note: If your dog disengages from the stimulus on their own (e.g., looks back at you or away) before the 3 seconds are up, there is no need to initiate the 123 Pattern Game. Keep walking as normal and reset the count if another stimulus is encountered.
Pro Tip: If your dog automatically disengages from the trigger and looks at you during this three second period, feel free to give your dog a treat. This is exactly what we want.
Step 2: Monitor Threshold
Observe your dog’s body language during the 3-second count. If they remain curious but calm, continue walking toward or parallel to the stimulus while preparing to redirect their focus if needed.
Step 3: Initiate the 123 Pattern Game
After 3 seconds, if your dog is still focused on the stimulus, begin counting “1, 2, 3” aloud. On “3,” drop a treat at your feet or hand it to your dog as you continue walking (be sure it is in the direction away from the stimulus). Important note -- we need to give our dogs distance if they are focusing for longer than 3 sesconds on something they have had a big reaction to in the past.
Repeat the 123 Pattern Game if necessary to guide your dog’s attention back to you and keep moving forward (away from the stimulus).
Options: Turn away from the trigger when you start your verbal count. Once you get a safe distance from the trigger, scatter some snacks on the ground to bring your dog’s arousal down.
Learn More About This Pattern
WHY THE 3-SECOND PAUSE IS IMPORTANT
Encourages Environmental Processing
Allowing your dog to glance at a stimulus without immediate interruption helps them learn that observing their environment is safe and non-threatening.
Prevents Over-Focus or Escalation
Dogs can quickly escalate from curiosity to fixation or reactivity. Limiting observation to 3 seconds provides just enough time to process without going over threshold.
Supports Smooth Forward Momentum
By continuing to walk, you avoid stopping, which can sometimes increase tension or overstimulation in dogs. Movement helps maintain a sense of calm.
Strengthens Focus on the Handler
Transitioning from the brief observation to the structured 123 Pattern Game ensures the dog redirects to you after processing their environment.
WHY THIS GAME IS EFFECTIVE
Prevents Over-Threshold Behavior
Dogs often tolerate brief glances at triggers without reacting. The 3-second rule ensures they process without escalating into reactivity.
Encourages Self-Regulation
By allowing the dog to look while moving forward, you give them a chance to choose calm behavior, reinforcing emotional control.
Balances Observation and Engagement
The first "123" (mental count) allows for environmental processing, while the second "123" (Pattern Game) refocuses the dog on you, balancing stimulus exposure with engagement.
Tips for Success
Start at a Safe Distance: Practice the game in low-distraction environments or far enough from triggers that your dog can remain below threshold.
Watch Body Language: If your dog begins to escalate (e.g., stiff posture, hard stare, whining), immediately shift into the 123 Pattern Game to redirect focus. Alternatively, you can do a turn and go.
Use High-Value Rewards: Reward generously for calm behavior and focus to reinforce the desired response.
Reset the Count: If your dog disengages from the stimulus before the 3 seconds are up, keep walking and reset the count for the next stimulus.
WHEN TO USE THE 123-123 GAME
During walks when triggers appear unexpectedly or at a manageable distance.
To build tolerance for mild triggers while maintaining forward momentum.
As a tool for balancing calm observation with engagement and focus.
The 123-123 Game combines structured observation with redirection, empowering your dog to process their surroundings while staying calm and focused. It’s a highly effective strategy for reducing reactivity and improving loose leash walking.
Download
Download these instructions here!