Bonding, groundwork, and using a saddle
Training a horse is different from giving your dog obedience lessons.
Even though horses are occasionally referred to as large dogs, the two types of animals require different training methods.
Some of the training steps are similar.
However, it’s the ones that are different that often determine a horse’s rideability.
While it’s best to use professional horse training in Noosa, it always helps if you are familiar with the various training steps.
Create a Strong Bond with Your Horse
Before you even think about introducing your horse to the saddle, you need to create a strong bond.
Trust is crucial between horse and rider and it starts by spending time together.
When the horse feels comfortable around you, it’s easier to get the animal to respond to commands.
Instead of trying to head back to the stables, your horse will want to stay with you.
In essence, the horse considers you a member of its herd.
Some of the ways you can bond with your horse include using a lead walk during walks, along with brushing and grooming the animal.
Start Laying the Groundwork
Groundwork lays the foundation for horse training in Sunshine Coast.
It helps create a sense of respect between the horse and rider.
Groundwork also improves the animal’s understanding of the commands you issue.
Some of the common groundwork exercises commonly employed during horse training in Noosa include teaching the animal to stand still and follow a lead.
Other exercises include flexing. It refers to the horse bending its neck to the left or right. The exercise helps teach the horse how to respond to reins.
To get the horse used to a bit, an exercise known as softening is commonly used. It teaches the horse to relax when lowering its head.
Getting your horse to move its shoulders and hind end, along with walking in a circle are other common groundwork exercises used by bringing out the saddle.
Desensitizing and Using a Saddle
Professional horse training in Sunshine Coast uses a method known as desensitization to get the animal ready for the saddle.
Desensitization helps build trust and get the animal used to pressure from the tack, saddle, and rider’s weight.
When the horse is ready, it’s time to place the saddle on its back.
Do not climb into the saddle, the goal of this training step is to let the horse get used to having it on its back.
Go ahead and attach the girth and stirrups, but only after the horse is used to the saddle.
The next step is adding weight to the saddle.
It’s a process that can take some time.
You can start by draping your arms over the horse’s back and slowly advance to laying on the horse’s back.
When you feel the horse is ready, go ahead and get into the saddle.
Start applying some pressure to get the horse to walk.
Don’t Forget to Reward Your Horse
Training takes a lot of work and effort from you and your horse. Don’t forget to reward your horse throughout training.
It helps build trust and can create positive associations that may make training go more easily.
