Gaining trust and respect from your horse is essential to have a well-trained horse. Keep in mind, however, that your horse also deserves your trust and respect as well. This mutual trust and respect will ensure that you establish and maintain a healthy relationship with your horse. With daily practice of groundwork exercises and consistent, firm interactions, you will be well on your way to having a respectful, trustworthy, and obedient horse. Rub your horse’s body Doing this will let the horse know that he can be comfortable and relaxed around you. Be mindful of areas where the horse does not like to be touched, like the stomach, eyes, and mouth. Lead from the lead position. This means that you will be walking ahead of your horse. By being led from this position, your horse will learn that you are dominant and that your personal space should be respected. Be assertive, yet friendly, when establishing the distance to be kept between you and your horse. Decide the speed at which you and your horse will walk, as well as the path of your walk. If your horse steps into your space or crowds you while leading, gently push him away. By doing this, you’re telling him that you are in charge and you need his respect. Walk around without the lead rope. This is an alternative approach to leading with the rope. Try this after the horse has learned how to be led. If he follows you, he has accepted you. If not, gently coax him to you. Horses are natural followers, they will follow you when you lead them. The horse should trust you and respect your space. For more information:…
