TOP TIP
TOP TIP
DID YOU KNOW?
DID YOU KNOW?
TOP TIP
TOP TIP
When writing your goal, define exactly what it is you want. Consider the behaviour you’re aiming for, horse’s position, duration, location it will happen in and so on.
At each stage, reward your horse for the positive behaviour of standing still and staying relaxed. Some horses prefer edible treats, but others enjoy a wither scratch just as much – check which option is most rewarding for your horse before you start your training so you can use his preferences to your advantage.
There are no quick fixes for behaviour – it takes time, patience and dedication. However, the long-lasting results speak for themselves.
Horses have a strong sense of smell, which is often overlooked in training plans. Smells evoke emotions, so if your horse has had a previous negative, frightening experience involving a specific smell, it won’t take much for this negative emotional response to be triggered.
Some steps may need to be repeated multiple times, whereas others you may be able to move through quickly. Watch your horse’s body language closely – mild signs of tension indicate not to move forward further until he’s calmer and more relaxed.
Gauge your horse’s him and repeating.
Photos: Peter Nixon, Jon Stroud