How to Handle your Horse

Good handling of horses is essential to build up a relationship and keep you and the horse happy both on the ground or on horseback.

Horses are big, strong animals and it is important that you have a mutual respect for each other. This requires both patience and understanding in order to achieve an equal relationship.

Horses are very sensitive animals who, as wild animals originally, have built in defence mechanisms. If startled, they have two instincts: Fight or Flight. Through domestication we have enclosed horses into ever smaller spaces, be it a stable or a field, so the most common reaction to danger now is to fight back with their feet and teeth. Horses only bite or kick as a reaction to danger or through fear so the handler should remain quiet but firm at all times.

When approaching a horse, the handler should always make sure that the horse is aware of their approach. The handler should approach the horse by moving quietly towards the horse's shoulder as the horse is able to turn their head to identify your presence. You should never approach a horse from behind as they cannot fully focus on you there. You should always approach quietly but purposefully so the horse does not get frightened by sudden movements, but also does not think that you are intimidated by them. Once you have reached the horse it is a good idea to stroke them gently on the neck so they recognize you as a friend. If your horse is in a stable and has its bottom turned towards the door you should not enter until the horse has turned to face the door. This can be achieved by calling the horse's name to alert the horse of your presence.

When working with a horse you should always let them know where you are. If you are at their head and then suddenly pop up behind them they may become frightened so it is a good idea to keep contact with them and they know where you are.

It is also important that the handler remains firm with the horse without becoming aggressive or violent. If the horse threatens to bite you a reprimand is necessary perhaps by saying 'NO' in a firm, authoritative voice. Horses seek reward and praise just as humans do and this should be enough to deter them. Should the horse behave particularly well or be more cooperative than usual then praise is required in the form of a kind word or a treat. It is well worth noting that too many treats will encourage a horse to bite or become pushy and demanding so treats should be fed either in their feed bucket or in moderation.

Good handling on the ground will do wonders for your ridden relationship as both you and your horse should have built up a solid relationship based on trust and understanding and this will ensure you have many happy times together.