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Equine Tips: How To Properly Train Your Horse

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how to train a horse. Every animal is different and will respond differently to various methods of training. However, there are some general tips that can be shared, which will help you build a bond with your horse, and teach it the basics of obedience. In this blog post, we will discuss four key steps in horse training: groundwork, desensitization, saddle training, and weight training. Follow these tips, and you will be on your way to having an obedient and well-behaved mount!

4 Key Elements Of Horse Training

1. Groundwork is the foundation of any training program for a horse. It involves teaching the animal basic obedience commands, such as ‘whoa’ (stop), ‘walk on’ (go forward), and ‘turn around’ (change direction). This type of training can be done in an arena or round pen and should be started with young horses as early as possible. Groundwork is important not only for teaching obedience but also for building trust between you and your horse.

2. Desensitization is another key element of training. This involves exposing your horse to new environments and situations and teaching it to remain calm in the face of change. This is important not only for safety but also for building confidence in your horse. Start slowly, and gradually increase the intensity of the stimuli you expose your horse to. Some specific areas to work on are: taking a temperature, picking up feet and looking in the mouth and ears. These will help you, your veterinarian and your farrier for the life of your horse.

3. Saddle training is the next step in training your horse. This involves getting the animal used to the sensation of being saddled, as well as the weight of a rider on its back. Start by simply placing the saddle on your horse’s back, and letting it get accustomed to the feel and smell of leather. Once your horse is comfortable with this, you can begin adding weight, either by sitting in the saddle yourself or by using a sandbag or other object. Remember to go slowly and be patient; so that it becomes accustomed to them.

4. Finally, apply pressure under the saddle. This is the process of teaching your horse to move forward when you ask it to, by using gentle pressure from your legs. Start with short sessions in an arena or round pen, and gradually increase the amount of time you spend riding. Remember to be consistent with your commands, and always praise your horse when it responds correctly.

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Horse Training With Help From Advanced Equine Of The Hudson Valley!

If you have any questions or concerns about when the right time to begin training is, or if you just want to ensure your horse is in good health, our Doctors at Advanced Equine of the Hudson Valley are here to help. We offer Wellness Exams as well as Performance Evaluations and are happy to consult with you about your horses performance as well as overall health. Call to Schedule an Appointment today to discuss anything Equine related, and remember, always consult with a professional trainer if you have any questions or concerns about training your horse. Happy riding!