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First Steps To Training Your Horse

First Steps - Approach Your Horse

 

Training a horse can only start after you have first caught him. This sounds simple enough, but if this is your first attempt at doing so it can be surprisingly frustrating. This is actually the most important step of all in training. Hereby are laid the foundations of trust. During each stage of horse training remember the importance of using the three P's - patience, persistence and positive reinforcement. These three elements work together to help you with each step of horse training.

 

If your enclosure is of an easily manageable size you will find that the approach stage will be much more efficient. Ideally use a round pen, but a paddock or any large fenced enclosure will also work.

 

A casual demeanour when first approaching the enclosure is necessary. Do your very best to relax and give the impression of calm. All of life's stresses need to be left outside the pen. Horses are sensitive prey animals that will become intimidated easily if they sense any stress or aggression. This can be interpreted by the horse as a threat, and this is the last thing you want your horse to see you as. Trust needs to be created between you both.

 

Go in with the horse but not to catch him yet. That bit will come soon enough. For now just concentrate on becoming familiar with your horse, and letting the horse become familiar with you. Just walk in and stand around for a few moments. Do not look directly at the horse. Predators will intimidate their prey by staring into their eyes. It's imperative that your horse doesn't see you as a predator. You need to be seen as part of the herd.

 

Next time, take a rake in and tidy up a bit. Inspect the fence to see if there are places it needs mending. The horse should not be approached yet. The horse will want to investigate and find out what you are doing. They are naturally very curious animals. You'll be checked out thoroughly and sniffed once you are a regular visitor.

 

It is important to remember that this could take some time, particularly if the horse isn't used to humans. There are some horses who will not feel too shy and approach immediately. Either way is acceptable. The horse will begin to trust you only if you let him become accustomed to you slowly and in his own time. Patience!

 

Don't reach for the horse as yet, though you may see this as a good opportunity to grab him. Bear in mind that patience here is the key. This takes time and you are building a foundation that will last throughout training and well beyond. It is important not to rush this step.

 

When the horse does approach, you should turn and walk away. Make sure that you walk away before your horse does. By doing this you will show him that he is not in charge of you.

Begin to approach your horse, sideways on, only when you feel that you are familiar and comfortable in each other's presence. A loose and relaxed posture is needed as you approach the horse. Step sideways to alleviate the nerves of a skittish equine. Move towards the side and avoid staring. Glance sideways and move toward your new friend. It's a bad idea to surprise your horse or sneak up on him with the halter. How will you hold onto the horse when "caught" if the horse is frightened? You will only succeed in breaching any trust by doing this and you will have to begin again. You could also be seriously hurt. The emphasis here is on patience and persistence.

 

When the horse allows you to come close, it's time for positive reinforcement. You should try to forget about training at this point. You should only be thinking about bonding with your horse. Simple grooming, brushing, scratching behind the ears, conversation, stroking along the neck area are positive reinforcement tools. Your horse should be able to enjoy these first moments as much as you. Now is the time you are both ready for training.

 

A note on safety around horses:

You must not approach a horse from behind unless he knows you well. Before you can even think about moving a horse could have delivered you a kick. A horse will always be faster than you, and even more so if he feels under threat in any way. Ensure you can be seen when approaching a horse.

 

Whether it is your own horse, or you are training the horse on somebody else's behalf, it is always advisable to ensure that there is adequate equine insurance in place to protect you both should an accident occur during training. Horses are beautiful yet powerful animals, and a swift kick from a lively horse can be enough to put you out of action for a considerable amount of time. A good horse insurance policy will include third party liability, and it is definitely worth checking this before you begin with your training.

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