subject: How Your Horses Should Be Treated Between Riding Lessons [print this page] If you like riding and want to spend more time around horses, riding lessons are a great way to accomplish this.
But one day you may own a horse and you need to learn how to relate to him both on and off duty. Here are some pointers.
Be Your Horse's Comfort Zone
Since horses are a herd animal, they require the presence of a frontrunner who commands their respect. Act justly, and avoid making unreasonable demands of your horse while providing him with proper health care. As trust is gained you will enter the horse's comfort levels, thus obtaining his docility and obedience to you.
Time Out
Even when he feels comfortable around you, he still needs time away from you to wander and graze and be with his own kind. It's important for him to be among other horses; don't keep him in solitary confinement so you can be the only 'person' in his life. It's not fair on him and will make him unhappy.
Be Sparing With Your Treats
Don't overdo it when it comes to offering treats to your horse. Your horse will beg for a treat whenever you approach him, which isn't far from the development of a biting problem. You need to be properly educated when it comes to horses' riding lessons since there is no barn that would be willing or able to cope with biting horses!
Working Partners
By looking at your horse as a work partner, much as a farmer views his sheep herding border collie, you could even make your equine acquaintance into a family member.
Even though you truly love your horse, he is there to work. By frequently babying your horse, he will no longer have interest in working, which can lead to serious control issues while you are on the saddle. Your horse must hold you with respect, but without any fear.
If you feel as though your horse is a kid that requires prudence and care, you are going to develop an emotional bond that makes things more worth while on the saddle and during times of leisure.
