Counterconditioning, Desensitization and the “Look at That” game explained

Welcome to Holistic Dog Behavior The Podcast!

In this episode, we get right into it—We explore counterconditioning and desensitization—two kind, effective techniques that help dogs change their emotional responses to the things that scare or stress them. You’ll see how these approaches work together to help you and your dog.

We also explain what a marker is in dog training (nope, not the kind you draw with!) and share one of our favorite connection-based exercises: the “Look at That” game by Leslie McDevitt. It’s a game rooted in trust that can gently help your dog learn to observe their triggers without reacting.

This episode is for anyone who wants to meet their dog where they are, with empathy and understanding—and is curious about how to create change without force, fear, or pressure.

Key Moments:

00:00 - Intro/Disclaimer (borinnggg, skip this if you want!)

1:06 - What is counterconditioning and how does it help with dog training?

2:53 - How to use Desensitization & Counterconditioning together in dog training.

14:00 - What the heck is a “marker” in dog training? And no, we don’t mean for drawing!

22:05 - Here’s a fun game you can learn to play with your dog that helps them learn to see their triggers without reactions! This is the “Look at That” Game by Leslie McDevitt.

Recommended Resources:

Clicker: https://chewygivesback.prf.hn/click/camref:1011l49ZqA/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.chewy.com%2Fsungrow-clickers-wrist-band-dog-cat%2Fdp%2F241962

Thanks for listening! If you found this episode helpful, subscribe, rate, and review to help other dog owners find us! You can also submit your own questions for the pod at holisticdogbehavior.com/podcast

Connect With Us:

• Website: Holistic Dog Behavior

• Instagram: @HolisticDogBehavior

  Send us your questions for future episodes here!