How to Socialize Dogs With Horses

You have your dog, and you're thinking of getting a horse. But how will your dog react to your potential horse? You want your dog to be comfortable with the look, smell, motion and overall presence of a horse before you commit to buying one, especially if you want your dog to join you and your horse on trail rides. Most dogs will adapt easily to any experience as long as you help them through it with a positive attitude (and treats help, too).

Things You'll Need

  • Leash
  • Long, light cotton rope
  • Bombproof horse
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get your dog on a leash and head to a ranch, trail or equestrian center. Your dog should already know the basic commands "sit" and "come" for this to be successful.

    • 2

      Walk your dog amongst the horses. Put him in a "sit," if he gets too excited, and give him a treat to get his attention back on you. Do this at any point when he's forgotten to pay attention. This will help you maintain control. Let your dog sniff horses on the nose, walk with you next to the horses, stop and talk to people grooming their horses, walk along the trail as horses are going by.

    • 3

      Continue to socialize by taking hikes or walks on horse-populated trails. When your dog gets more relaxed and used to seeing the big animals, try switching his leash to your long, light cotton rope. This will allow him more freedom, but still gives you control.

    • 4

      Let your dog roam some distance away from you while on the rope, and see how he reacts when the horses pass by. Always call him back, and if he doesn't instantly respond, or barks, quickly head the opposite way with a light tug on the collar, to get his focus back on you. The more exposure the dog gets, the faster he will adjust and enjoy the horses.

    • 5

      After all this exposure, try going on a ride. If you know someone with a bombproof horse, try borrowing their horse and going on a trail ride with this horse, bringing your dog along with you. Let your dog off the leash as you tack up the horse in the barn. Your dog should be pretty comfortable. If your dog acts too excited, the seasoned horse you are riding will be patient enough to tolerate your dog until he gets used to just trotting along beside you. The trail ride itself will help--a tired dog is a perfectly behaved dog!