Horse Training
Learn the basics of training horses
Basic horse training is built on the principle that horses are pack animals; they look to a leader, and you're expected to fill that role. When your horse recognizes you as the leader of its pack, it will respond to your commands and become easier to train.
If you're going to train your horse yourself, you need to be confident and have a lesson plan ready to go from the first moment you step into the stable. Your horse may well become unresponsive if you flinch for even a second in your role as the alpha member of the pack.
Basic Horse Training Tips
Before you launch into horse training, you should understand a few safety and strategy basics. First, never wear sandals or open-toed shoes in the presence of a horse; it's also recommended that you not wear rings, necklaces or any loose article of clothing that could get tangled up in horse tack or its mane. Second, you should learn to use your voice to your advantage; horses respond very well to intonation and intent, even when they don't yet understand the command words you're using.
One of the first moves you'll need to master is the approach. Most experts think it's better to teach your horse to approach you rather than vice-versa. To accomplish this, you should start by luring the horse with a treat; over time, you'll build a bond of trust with the horse and it will come on its own.
You also stand a better chance of teaching your horse favorable behaviors if you wait until it's mature before training begins. Horses are considered adults when they reach four to five years of age, though this varies from breed to breed and depends on your individual animal.
Horse training videos are extremely helpful resources, as there are dozens and dozens of topics to be covered. These videos can help you master a wide range of essential aspects of horse training, including:
- Approaching and positioning a horse
- Horse safety
- Correct riding techniques
- Rewarding positive behaviors
- Coaxing shy or nervous horses
- Communicating with a horse
- Preventing rearing
What to Look for in a Horse Training School
If you're going to entrust the job to professionals, you should know how to differentiate between a good academy and an inferior one. A good rule of thumb is that reputable trainers have no problems providing you with extensive references; conversely, people with something to hide tend to drag their feet when asked to provide them.
In many places, certification is required as a condition for being hired at horse training jobs. You can contact your local horse breeders' association to inquire about any such standards in your state or region; these associations are also excellent places to gather referrals.
Finally, spend some time watching the trainer interact with animals under their care before signing your horse up. You'll get a good idea not only of how they respond to the horses, but also how the horses respond to them.
