Horse training is a delicate process that aims to build a bond of trust and cooperation between horse and human. This balance is achieved by increasing the horse’s exposure to pressure while ensuring this exposure does not lead to undue stress. Understanding the Balance of Pressure The Skill of the Trainer: In the realm of…
Horse training that is gentle yet firm can yield optimal results, contrary to a common misconception that gentleness equates to weakness. This article will be discussing why gentleness and weakness should not be conflated and how a balanced approach leads to better outcomes in horse training. Understanding the Difference: Gentleness versus Weakness It is important…
Confrontation or co-operation reflects the two contrasting approaches humans have adopted for centuries in their relationships with horses. These approaches have developed into two distinctive methods, with neither being entirely discredited or endorsed due to the varied successes and shortcomings of both. Method 1: Confrontation The first method involves subjecting the horse to the human’s…
Introduction: Good habits are as effortless for equines to learn as bad ones. The training and nurturing of a horse significantly involve teaching it to perceive the world in terms of ‘safe’ versus ‘dangerous’, rather than ‘right’ versus ‘wrong’. As caregivers, it is our responsibility to acquaint them with their roles and behaviors effectively. Horse…
The philosophy of patience in horsemanship has long been embodied in the old adage, “when the going gets tough, the tough slow down.” This principle achieves profound clarity when applied to equestrian training and care, setting an irrevocable standard in an era governed by immediacy. The Importance of Patience in Handling Horses Impatience: An often…
Advance and retreat is a highly effective approach toward educating a horse, employing a balance between moving forward with new skills and revisiting established ones. Advantages of the Advance and Retreat Method Utilizing the advance and retreat method might appear unconventional, but it often leads to improved progress in horse education. The primary advantages of…
Training a pony encompasses a variety of objectives. Among these, fostering a more active behavior pattern and facilitating the pony’s stride lengthening is substantially significant. Designed to amplify the ground area covered without escalations in speed, equine training often utilizes the method of ‘step out leading’. Mobilizing the Pony: The ‘Step Out’ Lead In order…
Taking Baby Steps: The Initial Handling of a Stud-Born Foal Gentle Brushing and Handling A foal born on a stud farm has now started its training process, which involves learning to be handled gently all over its body. At times, a foal might exhibit resistance or discomfort to this new exposure. If that happens, a…
Introduction Successfully breaking in a horse relies heavily on a solid foundation of trust and understanding between you and the animal, regardless of its age. When your horse feels secure and relaxed around you, it’s much easier to introduce them to the various tasks and situations involved in the breaking-in process. Additionally, a trusting relationship…
Starting Proper Training at Three Once a young horse hits the 3-year-old mark, it can begin proper training. Some people advocate for fully breaking a horse at this young age. True, if you’re planning to sell the horse, it might be more appealing to potential buyers if it’s already quiet and safe for riding. Adopting…
