How to Strengthen Trust with your Horse

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Long lunge line
Treats

Step 1:
Approach your horse calmly. Horses are intelligent animals and will sense your tension, anger or fear.
Step 2:
Talk gently to calm the horse's nerves. Use key words that you can repeat often, such as the animal's name and phrases like, "It's okay," or "Good girl." With time, your horse will become accustomed to these calming phrases.
Step 3:
Massage or rub your horse in areas in which it likes to be touched. While speaking gently, offer him an apple slice and rub his ears, nose or neck. With time, you will find that he will allow you to move down to the flanks and other parts of the body.
Step 4:
Place your horse on a long lunge line when she seems comfortable enough. Walk her in large, smooth circles. Make only as many laps as your horse can manage. If she seems to calm, try changing directions. Practice lunging daily to help you join up with your horse.
Step 5:
Reward your horse when he begins to show signs of friendship and joining up. For example, if the horse lifts his ears towards you while eating or lowers his head when you approach, give him a treat and express affection to show that you want to be friends. With patience, you will learn to trust one another completely.

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