There’s a great game that you can try to strengthen your dog’s heel position and improve their focus during walks. The 1-2-3 Pattern Game is designed to help them stay calmly by your side while making training fun and rewarding.
The 1-2-3 Pattern Game
Here’s how the 1-2-3 Pattern Game works and its effectiveness: this game builds a simple and predictable pattern that your dog will learn to follow. When you count to “3,” they’ll get a treat right beside your leg in the heel position. With practice, they’ll start to recognize that “1” leads to “2,” and “2” leads to “3,” and by the time you reach “3,” they’ll be in position, ready for their reward.
Starting the Game with Your Dog
Start by introducing the number “3” in a quiet space like your living room or a secure yard, where your dog can focus without distractions. Stand by them on the side you want them to walk on, then say “Three!” and immediately reward them by giving a treat at your leg. If they don’t notice the treat right away, give them a moment to figure it out. Practice this a few times until they start to connect hearing “Three!” with receiving a treat by your side.
Next, introduce “2” by saying, “Two, Three!” and give the treat on “Three,” just as before. Keep repeating until your dog perks up at “Two,” because they’re learning that it’s a cue for something good coming soon! When they’re excited at “Two,” add “One” for the full pattern: “One, Two, Three!” Reward on “Three” each time, helping them learn that this counting sequence means moving to heel position for their treat.
Keeping Your Dog’s Attention with the Pattern Game
Once your dog is confidently following the pattern in a quiet area, try using it in different settings, like the backyard or on leash in a calm part of your neighbourhood. Gradually increase distractions to teach them to stay focused, even with interesting things around, like other dogs or a squirrel nearby.
This 1-2-3 Pattern Game is perfect for more than just heeling. You can use it to keep your dog close during walks, redirect their focus when they’re feeling anxious, as an alternative to a recall if they’re not quite ready for a full “come” command, or even to interrupt unwanted behaviours like barking or jumping. Since dogs love routines and predictability, this game will engage them mentally and build their confidence while making your training sessions smoother and more enjoyable.
I’m excited to hear how your dog progresses with this game! Let me know if you have any questions as you start.