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The "Look at That" Game for Reactive Dogs: Step-by-Step Guide

How to teach the "Look at That" game so your reactive dog can see another dog, look back at you, and stay calm. Exact steps, common mistakes, and timing.

"Look at That" (often shortened to LAT) is one of the best-known exercises for reactive dogs. It was made popular by trainer Leslie McDevitt, and it sounds backwards at first: you reward your dog for looking at the thing it reacts to.

Here's why it works and exactly how to do it.

Why rewarding the look works

Your dog is going to look at other dogs no matter what. LAT turns that look into a signal: "A dog! That means chicken is coming." Over time, two things happen:

1. Other dogs start to predict good things, so they feel less scary or frustrating.
2. Your dog learns a new habit: look at the dog, then look back at you.

That head turn back to you is the moment the old pattern (stare, stiffen, lunge) is replaced.

Before you start

• Practice the marker word "Yes!" at home first: say it, then treat within 2 seconds. 10 reps, twice a day, for 2 days.
• Know your dog's safe distance: where it can notice a dog and still take treats gently.
• Bring high-value treats in a hip pouch.

Step by step

Step 1: At your safe distance, mark the look

When your dog looks at the other dog calmly, say "Yes!" and give a treat. Your dog will turn back to you for the treat. Repeat every time it looks.

Step 2: Wait a second or two

After several reps, when your dog looks at the dog, wait 1–2 seconds without saying anything. Most dogs look back at you as if to say "Where's my treat?" Mark that look-back with "Yes!" and give a jackpot (2–3 treats).

Step 3: End on a win

After 3 to 5 great reps, leave. Say "Let's go!", walk away, and toss a few treats on the ground. Sessions should last 5 to 10 minutes max.

Step 4: Close the distance slowly

Only after 2 calm sessions in a row at the same distance, try moving 5–10 feet closer. If your dog starts staring hard or stiffening, back up 10–20 feet and continue there.

Common mistakes

• Starting too close. If your dog ignores treats, you're too close. Move away.
• Sessions too long. Fatigue and trigger stacking creep in. Short and successful beats long and stressful.
• Rushing the distance. The distance shrinks as a result of good reps, never by force.
• Using boring treats. Another dog is exciting. Your reward has to compete.

Calm Walks in 30 Days

The 30-day plan for dogs who bark, lunge and lose it at other dogs on leash. 10–20 minutes a day, reward-based, 6 printable tools.

See the plan →

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How long until it works?

Many owners see their dog look back on its own within the first few sessions. Getting to calm passes across the street usually takes several weeks of short, regular practice. Keep a log of your distance each session: the trend is what matters.

Educational content from the CalmWalk team. Not veterinary or behavioral advice for your specific dog. If your dog has bitten, or behavior changed suddenly, see your veterinarian and a certified professional.