Hokana Training Tip: Subtle Signals With a Spooky Horse

Dana Hokana’s Training Tip

SUBTLE SIGNALS

Some horses have poor attention spans. Often, they are the horses that spook or the ones that want to look at things. This personality type may be genetic; some of it could also be a learned behavior. You can teach your horse to be spooky.

This happens through body language and subtle signals through your body that there is something to worry about as you approach a scary or challenging object. If your horse feels your fear, this tells him that it’s a big deal, and he may react or spook, which causes you to react even more. You may be unconsciously causing a pattern of learned behavior.

Become aware of your signals. Breathe and relax while approaching intimidating obstacles. When he reacts, act as if it’s no big deal. Keep going back and forth by the object until he can relax. Stop your horse by the scary spot and stand there until you hear him breathe and relax. Do not overreact! If you are able, tie them out in different places and leave them there until they can relax can stand quietly.

I have tips that will help you to master your body language and subtle cues. These tips will also help you to gain a better relationship with your horse. They are demonstrated in great detail in my Winning Strides Training DVD’s which include more ideas and exercises to help improve your riding skills.  

Check them out now at http://hokana.com/shop-dvds/