L.A.T. (Look At That) TRAINING METHOD

"Look at that" (LAT) is a dog training method developed by Leslie McDevitt that is primarily used to manage reactivity and improve focus in dogs. It involves teaching dogs to look at a trigger (something that causes a reaction) and then look back to their handler, remaining calm throughout the process. 

How it Works:

1. Identifying Triggers:

The first step is to identify what triggers your dog's reactive behavior, such as other dogs, people, or specific objects.

2. Creating a Positive Association:

The "look at that" exercise involves introducing the trigger in a controlled environment and rewarding the dog for looking at it and then looking back at you.

3. Breaking Down the Behavior:

The process is broken down into smaller steps, making it easier for the dog to learn and stay calm.

4. Building Confidence:

The goal is to build the dog's confidence in handling triggers by teaching them to focus on you and stay calm instead of reacting impulsively.

5. Rewarding Calm Behavior:

Positive reinforcement is used throughout the process, rewarding the dog for looking at the trigger and then looking back at you calmly. 

Benefits of LAT Training:

Managing Reactivity:

LAT helps manage reactive behavior by teaching the dog to focus on you and stay calm in the presence of a trigger.

Building Focus:

It strengthens the dog's ability to focus on you even in distracting environments.

Reducing Stress:

When done correctly, LAT can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with triggers.

Improved Relationship:

By teaching the dog to look back at you, the exercise builds trust and strengthens the bond between you and your dog. 

For more information or to request a Behavioral Assessment and Consultation contact us below or call (805) 978 6945.  

We provide your Behavioral Assessment and Consultation free of charge.  At the consultation we will discuss in detail with you what problem behaviors are occurring, what you would like to see happen for you and your dog as a result of training and will perform a Behavioral Assessment of your dog.  This will allow us to evaluate your needs, the current behavior of the dog, what you would like to see from the training and other variables in order to develop a Behavioral Training Plan specific to your dog and situation.