Every horse is capable of being trained. However, each horse has individual traits that will result in different responses during the learning process. We may recognize and anticipate some of these responses, but some may crop up unexpectedly. There are too many variables to count on the process going exactly as planned. It’s just a matter of figuring out the best one for you. Start training by mapping out small steps toward achieving your goal. ‘Then break those steps down even further. Remember that your horse’s attitude is more likely to remain cooperative when you work him in shorter sessions and spread the progression of steps over a longer period of time. In the beginning, look for the smallest hint of progress toward your goal and bridge that action. Keep in mind that the action you bridge and reinforce is the action your horse will repeat. For example, suppose you are teaching your horse to load into a trailer. You’re standing at the ramp with him and he bends his knee. I would bridge and reinforce this action because bending the knee is the first step toward lifting the leg, which leads to walking on to the ramp and ultimately into the trailer. In this case, bending the knee is the type of small action you should draw attention to with the bridge-signal.

When working with your horse, never underestimate the importance of standing still. Teach and reinforce this behavior quite often.

If your horse seems slow to learn or quits easily, set him up for success by reducing your expectations and mapping out smaller steps for him to accomplish. Reward each approximation with more food. Try shorter sessions. Once his attitude improves and he’s motivated to try, you’ll be able to move toward achieving your goal. Another situation you may encounter is the horse who tries initially and then stops making an effort. In this circumstance, back up a few steps and slow down while drawing attention to each effort he makes. If you’ve taken these steps and your horse is not improving, terminate the session. When your horse won’t try, he chooses at that time not to be a part of the work session. It may take a few repetitions to teach him the ramifications of your leaving (his opportunity for reinforcement leaves with you), but ultimately he will learn to pay more attention to you.

Don’t let these situations discourage you! They are part of the learning process and you will get past them as long as you are consistent in putting the tools in your arsenal to use. In some of these situations, the horse is testing or trying to control his environment. If he learns that his behavior won’t get him what he wants, he’ll change and stop being obstinate. Once you get your horse in the right frame of mind, his performance will improve.

Related posts:

1. Horse Training – Shoulder-In On and off the Wall

2. Horse Training Exercises – Renvers (Haunches-out) On and Off the Wall

3. Horse Training Exercises – Rein Back

4. Canter Depart from Walk in Horse Training

5. Horse Training Exercise – Advanced Canter Departs

6. Horse Training Exercises – The Zigzag

7. Horse Training Exercises – Counter Change of Hand

8. Training Your Horse in Hand

9. Essential Exercises for Horse Training – How to Leg Yield Your Horse

10. Horse Training Exercises – How to Turn on the Haunches