Training A Horse – Part I

Training a horse is a culmination of every single interaction you have with a horse.  If you only focused on training a horse while you were riding and not otherwise, you would end up with a horse that is possibly perfect under saddle but could be potentially a terror on the ground.

If you bought a horse with a decent amount of experience, they probably have most of the aspects of good ground manners down pat.  With that said, new surroundings and new interactions can evoke previous misbehaviors – and a reminder of what is expected of your horse could be required. 

Training your horse, on the ground and in the saddle, is a gradual process of getting your horse’s attention and teaching him what you want him to do.  You want the horse to think of you as its lead mare, no matter what the gender of the horse or the owner.  Your horse may be a natural leader, which can make training a challenge.

Horses are herd animals and naturally crave a leader to show them what to do.  It goes without saying that you are the one to be the leader in this relationship.  You want to lead by earning the respect of your horse through your interactions.

Patience is a virtue, and it will be your best friend when Training A Horse.  Keep in mind that the horse takes its cues from you, so it is important that you stay calm and relaxed.  Then your horse will feel calm and relaxed, also.  As he gains respect for you, your horse will begin to look to you for instruction, both while on the ground and being ridden. 

Good ground manners are the foundation of a well-trained horse.  Ground manners are, as the name suggests, the way your horse acts when he is not being ridden.  Ground manners include your horse’s behavior in the field, in the stall, on the cross ties … everything except while being ridden.  Good ground manners can be taught and attained through effective use of vocal and body language cues.

Check back for Part 2 in my series of traing a horse. Until then, give your horse a hug for me.

Katie