Horses

Overview of how clicker training fits with typical training and riding
based on touch/pressure and release

Handfeeding treats to horses

Tips for giving horses treats safely

Observations on learning, and licking and chewing

Behavioural Problems

Possible physical causes of problems MUST be addressed first. A
common cause of misbehaviour in ridden horses is pain and
discomfort, often from badly fitting tack and sharp teeth.

If you have ruled out physical causes and your horse is

  • Difficult to catch

  • Won't go on float, in crush or racing barrier

  • Head shy,

  • Difficult to bridle or unbridle, or put on and remove rugs

  • Difficult to handle feet for cleaning and/or farrier

  • Afraid of objects such as traffic, plastic bags or wheelie bins

  • Difficult to give veterinary treatments (eg hosing or bandaging
    injured legs, eye drops, injections)

  • Difficult to worm

  • Girthy

  • Rushing and tense under saddle

  • Resistant

we can help you.

Trick Training for Horses

Trick training is a good way to give purpose, structure and mental
stimulation to the life of a horse who cannot be ridden eg due to
injury or old age. It is great fun for both the horse and the handler. It
also has benefits for "ordinary" horsemanship and ridden work -
you'll see what I mean when you experience this yourself!

  • Bowing

  • Following targets

  • Standing on pedestals, in tyres, on a see saw

  • Retrieving

  • Playing piano, tooting bicycle horn, shaking tambourine

  • Liberty work

  • Smiling

  • Spanish Walk

  • Anything you can think of that your horse can physically do

                                         More Pictures

Dressage, introducing jumping and fine tuning
for the show ring

  • Improving halts

  • Teaching lateral movements

  • Self carriage and muscle use

  • Lightness

  • Dealing with the show atmosphere

  • Maintaining calmness and fostering boldness

  • Standing while being judged at halter

  • Improving attentiveness and responsiveness to rider

  • Negotiating trail obstacles