Every Touch Matters

Do you know who trains your horse? Every person who interacts with it.

When you are interacting with a horse - leading it, brushing it, petting it, or riding it - every touch matters. If you push, pull, shove, jerk the lead rope or reins, or are otherwise rough with your horse, it will become dull. You will also upset its balance, making it harder for your horse to do what you are asking it to do because it must rebalance first and/or brace against your harsh touch; this does not help your horse physically develop correctly.

It is important to remember to touch and interact with your horse with awareness and sensitivity. Ask it to move when it is balanced. Prepare your horse for what you will ask it to do. If you are soft, thoughtful, patient, and aware of what you are asking of your horse, it will be easier to work with and to ride.

Every touch is training your horse - you have a choice between making a sensitive, trained partner or a hard horse that will be difficult to work with and consequently have a less pleasant life.

Making a good horse starts with you, and every interaction counts.