Equestrian etiquette: check the correctness of your horse's behavior

Proper horse behavior is not only one of the pillars of competent work, but also the basis of safety. And this applies not only to working under функции в Python horseback. Sometimes horse owners do not pay proper attention to the discipline of their four-legged partner, which eventually leads to negative consequences.

If you have a problem with any of the items listed below, you should definitely work on your horse's behavior.

1. "Catch me if you can."

First of all, the horse should let the person put the bridle or halter on him. If it takes a long time to catch a horse in the barn or paddock, you should definitely pay attention to this. The process of putting on the halter should not be like a ritual of a thousand actions, it should be a habitual manipulation for the horse.

After all, everything starts small - a horse that does not allow to do such a simple thing, most likely, will be disobedient in other moments of work.

However, if the horse systematically refuses to put on the bridle, it is worth consulting a veterinarian. This action may be causing her discomfort - the back of the horse's head and mouth are extremely sensitive, and improper harness or physical problems can cause pain.

2. Knowing how to walk "hands on."

Your horse should walk calmly beside you on the chomber or lasso. She should be attentive to movements and commands. It is unacceptable behavior to stop every meter trying to grab another bundle of grass or trying to push a person off with your shoulder. The horse must be precipitated on command, even in your hands.

If you often have trouble obeying your horse "in hand," you should pay more attention to this.

3. "Calm, Only Calm."

Your horse should stand calmly at unleashes and tolerate standard manipulation: shoeing, vet inspection, saddling or shaving.

There are many reasons why a horse does not stand in unleashes or exhibits inappropriate behavior:

Physical discomfort;

Fear due to psychological or physical trauma received;

Hyperactivity (inability to concentrate on the rider, poor concentration);

Uncomfortable place for the horse (too narrow aisle, dark room, close proximity of another horse).

In such a case, your job as owner is to determine the cause of the horse's discomfort and eliminate it or train the horse to the irritation factor.

4. "Don't get in! It will kill you."

You've probably heard the phrase "my horse doesn't like to have his feet touched." This position is wrong - the horse should allow any manipulation and react calmly to all human actions with it. Otherwise, forging, veterinary manipulation, and sometimes even a simple cleaning, will turn into a real nightmare.

By allowing a horse to be negatively affected you are not only endangering your own safety but also the welfare of the stable staff.

However, there are two categories of horses for which such behavior is allowed. For young horses, your actions such as brushing, saddling and even petting may be unfamiliar. They need time to understand that there is no danger in them.

Restless behavior can also be forgiven for older or injured horses - touching them in certain areas may hurt them or remind them of a negative experience. Try to make sure that your touch is not associated with discomfort.

5. Opportunity to inspect the horse's mouth

Some horses adamantly refuse to allow humans to examine their mouths. This also makes it difficult for the equine dentist and other things that require touching the mouth - giving medications for helminths (worming) or checking iron during a tournament.

As in the previous case, try to show the horse that his correct behavior will be rewarded. Try rewarding the horse with a treat each time he allows an unobstructed oral examination.

6. Correct "eating" behavior

Good manners are essential when it comes to tasty rewards and food. Your horse should calmly wait to be fed and gently take the treats. Not only is "grabbing" sugar, but also digging while handing out concentrates is considered improper behavior in this case.

If your horse is impatiently waiting for a treat during work and rushing to complete the exercise for a tasty reward, try switching to training with clickers (a special training device that makes clicking sounds).

7. Lack of response to other horses while working

Your horse should be focused on you while working, not on the events going on around you. This includes other horses.

Don't let your horse get distracted by his "colleagues" during training. This will help you develop a closer rapport with your horse, and it will be easier to perform the elements when he is focused only on the work.