Pattern Games in Real Life: How to Use Control Unleashed with Your Dog

Pattern Games in Real Life: How to Use Control Unleashed with Your Dog

From Pod to the Rescue by Summit Dog Rescue

April 22, 2026 · 54 min · Season 6 · Episode 4

About this episode

This episode discusses the practical application of pattern games in dog training, featuring insights from Control Unleashed creator Leslie McDevitt.

Pattern games are one of the most powerful (and underused) tools in modern dog training—and in this episode, we’re breaking down exactly how to use them in real life. Following our conversation with Control Unleashed creator Leslie McDevitt, Emily, Jenni, and Libby dive into the *practical* application of pattern games with rescue dogs, foster dogs, and client cases. We cover: What pattern games actually do in your dog’s brain Why predictability is critical for rescue dogs How to use games as an emotional barometer Real-life examples with fearful, reactive, and overwhelmed dogs You’ll learn how to implement: Up/Down for grounding and check-ins Ping Pong for movement and energy release 1-2-3 for navigating overwhelming environments Look At That for changing emotional responses We also explore why these aren’t “just distractions”—they’re tools for building skills, resilience, and communication. If you’ve ever felt like your dog is overwhelmed, reactive, or struggling to adjust, this episode gives you actionable ways to support them! Links and Resources Resilience Rainbow: https://journal.iaabcfoundation.org/the-resilience-rainbow/ Train Me Please on YouTube…

People in this episode

Hosts: Emily Wolf, Jenni Pfafman, Libby Felts

Guest: Leslie McDevitt

Topics covered

  • dog training
  • pattern games
  • rescue dogs
  • emotional support
  • reactive dogs
  • behavioral insights

Keywords

  • pattern games
  • dog training
  • rescue dogs
  • emotional barometer
  • reactive dogs
  • grounding techniques
  • behavioral skills

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Summit Dog Rescue, Brilliant Pup Behavior, Elevated Dog Training, Bolder Dog, IAABC Foundation, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook

Places: real life

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