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

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 brainWhy predictability is critical for rescue dogsHow to use games as an emotional barometerReal-life examples with fearful, reactive, and overwhelmed dogsYou’ll learn how to implement:Up/Down for grounding and check-insPing Pong for movement and energy release1-2-3 for navigating overwhelming environmentsLook At That for changing emotional responsesWe 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 ResourcesResilience Rainbow: https://journal.iaabcfoundation.org/the-resilience-rainbow/Train Me Please on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/trainmeplease Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for weekly behavior insights!Website: https://www.podtotherescue.com/Emily Wolf, Brilliant Pup Behavior: https://www.brilliantpupbehavior.com/Jenni Pfafman, Elevated Dog Training: https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/Libby Felts, Bolder Dog and Bolder Dog Media: https://www.bolder.dog/

What if helping a stressed or reactive dog didn’t start with obedience—but with predictability?In this episode of Pod to the Rescue, we’re joined by renowned trainer Leslie McDevitt, creator of the Control Unleashed program, to explore how Pattern Games can transform the lives of shelter, rescue, and pet dogs alike.These simple, repeatable exercises help dogs process their environment, reduce anxiety, and build resilience—whether they’re navigating a chaotic shelter, adjusting to a foster home, or learning to walk calmly through the world.We break down some of Leslie’s most powerful games—like the 1-2-3 game, Up/Down, Give Me a Break, and LATTE—and explain how they:Reduce reactivity and overwhelmBuild trust between dogs and humansTeach calm behavior without pressureHelp dogs generalize skills across environmentsIf you work with rescue dogs—or love one who struggles with the world—this episode is packed with practical, compassionate tools you can start using today.Links and Next Steps: On-Demand Webinars from Leslie McDevittLeslie’s Friends of Control Unleashed Facebook GroupLick and LearnConnect With Us:Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @podtotherescue for weekly behavior insightsWebsite: https://www.podtotherescue.com/Emily Wolf, Brilliant Pup Behavior: https://www.brilliantpupbehavior.com/Jenni Pfafman, Elevated Dog Training: https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/Libby Felts, Bolder Dog and Bolder Dog Media: https://www.bolder.dog/

Potty training is one of the biggest challenges for new dog adopters—but even “house trained” dogs can have accidents in a new home.In this episode, professional dog trainers Emily and Libby break down how to potty train puppies and rescue dogs using science-based methods, including management strategies, reinforcement timing, and realistic expectations.Learn why dogs have accidents, how to prevent them, and how to build reliable potty habits without punishment.Click to download the free potty training log!What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy even “house trained” rescue dogs often have accidentsThe puppy potty schedule that sets dogs up for successWhat to do if your dog won’t pee or poop after adoptionThe role of stress, parasites, and medical issues in accidentsWhy punishment can make potty problems worse🎙️ Connect With Us:Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for weekly behavior insightsWebsite: https://www.podtotherescue.com/Emily Wolf, Brilliant Pup Behavior: https://www.brilliantpupbehavior.com/Jenni Pfafman, Elevated Dog Training: https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/Libby Felts, Bolder Dog and Bolder Dog Media: https://www.bolder.dog/

What do we really mean when we say “behavior”?In this powerful kickoff to Season 6 of Pod to the Rescue, we’re joined by world-renowned behavior scientist Dr. Susan Friedman, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Utah State University and founder of Behavior Works.Together, we explore:Why behavior is an evolved adaptationThe truth about reinforcement and punishmentWhy “scolding” isn’t necessary for learningHow to build a “trust account” with your dogThe ABC model (Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence)Why confidence is a label—and what it actually looks likeErrorless learning and how to reduce mistakes in trainingHow positive reinforcement builds resilienceWhether you're a new adopter, foster, shelter professional, or trainer, this episode will fundamentally change the way you see behavior.Because rescuing the dog is just the first step.Follow Dr. Friedman’s Behavior Works page on Facebook and check out her website: https://behaviorworks.org/Connect With Us:Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for weekly behavior insightsWebsite: https://www.podtotherescue.com/Emily Wolf, Brilliant Pup Behavior: https://www.brilliantpupbehavior.com/Jenni Pfafman, Elevated Dog Training: https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/Libby Felts, Bolder Dog and Bolder Dog Media: https://www.bolder.dog/

You have a new foster or adopted pet, and the holidays are here. What next? In this episode, Emily and Libby walk you through the steps to take to make sure your new furry family member is safe and happy while you celebrate. You'll learn: Why holidays can be stressful and confusing for our dogs (and cats!)The Off Duty Hack by Kim Brophey, which helps your dog understand what to do when guests come overHow to know how much your dog can handleWhy this time of year is tough on rescues and shelters — and how you can help

This week, Emily and Libby speak with Kathy Sdao of Bright Spot Dog Training.  Sdao’s accessible training technique to help our dogs fit into our human world, and this conversation is lively and full of both science and heart; evidence and experience. Some topics discussed are:How to take training out of the science theory realm into the practical, accessible world of humans training their dogHelping resolve dogs anxiety by using reinforcersHow her work with Marine mammals influences her training approachHuman praise as payment - does it work or not?How the Smart x 50 technique can be adapted to a shelter environmentKathy has been passionate about animal training ever since she quit a good job to move halfway around the world to train dolphins at the Kewalo Basin Marine Mammal Laboratory at the University of Hawaii.Now, 35 years later, she offers her expertise as an applied animal behaviorist to dog owners in Washington State and across the world, to seminar and webinar audiences and to professional training organizations. Kathy has taught 300 seminars, workshops, conferences and webinars; many of these presentations have been professionally recorded and are available for purchase. Kathy’s training philosophy and advice is summarized in her book, Plenty in Life is Free: Reflections on Dogs, Training and Finding Grace.For transcripts, visit www.podtotherescue.comFollow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/podtotherescue/ and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PodToTheRescue!Credits: Libby Felts and Emily Wolf (Hosts and Creators). Original music by Mike Pesci. Production and editing by Alex Ammons of For the Love Media.---Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sdr7/support

Canine Adolescence is the transition from puppyhood to adulthood. This fascinating conversation with Sarah Stremming, who is a dog behavior coach and the host of the Cog Dog Podcast, addresses this pivotal age of young dogs. Sarah, Emily, and Libby discuss adolescent canine behavior and how to most effectively observe and address behaviors to nurture confident, healthy dogs. They also discuss:How dogs’ responses to environments and caregivers can change during this transitional periodSome of the difficulties this transition period can create for adolescent dogsHow to best support the dog through these transitional changesHow we can work with dogs experiencing threatSarah’s approach to using food when a threat is presentSarah is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant of nearly two decades, and has 25 years experience of competing in dog sports. You can find Sarah and her online courses at http://www.sarahstremming.com.Your Dog's Friendhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXYsg9X4m6ECalm Canine Academy : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mcZ_HoxeScFollow us on Instagram and Facebook for weekly behavior insightsWebsite: https://www.podtotherescue.com/Emily Wolf, Brilliant Pup Behavior: https://www.brilliantpupbehavior.com/Jenni Pfafman, Elevated Dog Training: https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/Libby Felts, Bolder Dog and Bolder Dog Media: https://www.bolder.dog/

We are thrilled to present today’s guest, Michael Shikashio. Michael is a world-renowned expert on dog aggression and has an incredible wealth of information he generously shares, which is helpful for owners, rescuers, and trainers alike.In this conversation, Michael, Emily and Libby define aggression, discuss the ways aggression can present in different dogs (and the different levels of assessing their aggression), and so much more. Make sure to listen to the full episodes, as Michael drops important gems throughout the episode.Michael is an internationally sought out speaker on the topic of aggression - has mentored and presented to thousands of animal professionals. He is the Founder of the Aggression in Dogs Master Course, teaches trainers and consultants in over 25 countries on how to work with aggression cases, and has been featured in countless media, including the New York Times, the New York Post, Web MD, and Women’s Health.​Michael Shikashio’s website: https://aggressivedog.com/Fear Free: https://fearfreepets.com/ and https://www.fearfreehappyhomes.com/International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants: https://m.iaabc.org/Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers: https://www.ccpdt.org/American College of Veterinary Behaviorists: https://www.dacvb.org/🎙️ Connect With Us:Website: https://www.podtotherescue.com/Emily Wolf, Brilliant Pup Behavior: https://www.brilliantpupbehavior.com/Jenni Pfafman, Elevated Dog Training: https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/Libby Felts, Bolder Dog and Bolder Dog Media: https://www.bolder.dog/

July 4th can be terrifying for pets — especially dogs with noise sensitivities. Fireworks and thunderstorms trigger stress, fear, and sometimes dangerous flight responses in our four-legged friends. In this live mini episode, we talk about why dogs are afraid of fireworks and thunder, how to recognize signs of fear (even the subtle ones!), and strategies for keeping pets calm and safe.You’ll learn how to spot canine stress signals, understand dog body language during loud events, what calming dog products work for us. We’ll also debunk the myth that comforting your scared dog makes things worse, because it doesn’t!Plus, we share what we’re doing this weekend to prep our own dogs, including:Updating microchip info and ID tagsUsing white noise and calming dog musicPreparing soothing chews and frozen enrichment toysCreating safe spaces Whether your dog hides, trembles, or just seems “off,” this episode is packed with practical tips to help you get through the holiday weekend with less stress for everyone.To participate in Jenni's research study, reach out via her website: https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/Link to Lincoln Sound Sensitivity Scale:https://ipstore.lincoln.ac.uk/product...Stress and predictability:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles...🎙️ Connect With Us:Facebook:   / podtotherescue  Instagram:   / podtotherescue  Website: https://www.podtotherescue.com/Emily Wolf, Brilliant Pup Behavior: https://www.brilliantpupbehavior.com/Jenni Pfafman, Elevated Dog Training: https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/Libby Felts, Bolder Dog and Bolder Dog Media: https://www.bolder.dog/

Bringing a new foster or adopted dog into your home is exciting—but when you already have a resident dog, the introduction process requires careful planning. In this episode, we chat with behavior consultant and friend of the pod Elisheba Fay, and dive into strategies for setting both dogs up for success, especially when working with foster or rescue dogs whose histories may be unknown.We cover what to consider before bringing a new dog home, how to evaluate whether your current pet is ready for a new companion, and how to avoid common pitfalls during introductions.Whether you're fostering, adopting, or just thinking about adding a second dog to your pack, this episode will help you approach multi-dog households with confidence and compassion.🐶 In this episode, you’ll learn: What skills your resident dog needs before bringing home a new dogHow to set up your home for a new foster dogWhy it’s important to go slow when introducing a new dog—even if your dog is friendly!What’s normal and what’s not normal when integrating new dogs🎙️ Connect With Us:Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for weekly behavior insightsWebsite: https://www.podtotherescue.com/Elisheba Fay: https://www.artandscience.dog/Emily Wolf, Brilliant Pup Behavior: https://www.brilliantpupbehavior.com/Jenni Pfafman, Elevated Dog Training: https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/Libby Felts, Bolder Dog and Bolder Dog Media: https://www.bolder.dog/