How to Show a Donkey He's Not the Boss

Donkeys are related to horses, but if you try to train a donkey as you would train a horse, you will find that they may respond poorly. This is because donkeys and horses exhibit different social and behavioral tendencies and respond to stimuli differently. There are effective techniques, however, to control and train a donkey so that you will feel like the donkey's master.

Things You'll Need

  • Clicker
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide what purposes you have in mind for your donkey. When you want your donkey to act as a guardian of livestock, for example, then he will only need minimal desensitization to people. If you want your donkey to be a family pet, pull carts or carry riders, you will need to train the donkey to be completely comfortable in social environments.

    • 2

      Approach your donkey in a calm, nonthreatening way. Quick, direct movements may seem threatening to a donkey. Learn to understand her body language by watching her tail, ears and expressions. For example, if the donkey is listening, she will look directly at you and not away from you, as if considering where to run. In time, you should be able to distinguish facial expressions such as curiosity, anger, fear and defiance and respond appropriately.

    • 3

      Let a new donkey get used to you. Do odd jobs around the donkey without engaging in interaction with him. This will allow him to become familiar with your scent, movements and appearance. Once he seems more curious than fearful, leave a small bit of hay before you leave the area or sit quietly with some hay close to the chair. Make first contact by using a bamboo pole to scratch the donkey from a distance gently as if another donkey was grooming him. The donkey will appreciate the scratching and not feel threatened and be more open to you approaching him and training him.

    • 4

      Allow the donkey to become used to the feel of a rope and halter before attempting to put it on. Use gentle tugs and releases until she figures out how she should stand to face you when you tug her halter. When she understands the pressure from the halter, you can train her to yield to pressure exerted on the lead line. If you try to pull her toward you, she will most likely step back. Instead, get her to come sideways as it gives more leverage and is easier for her.

    • 5

      Use a clicker from a pet store in combination with treats to train your donkey. Try carrots or apple baked biscuits. For example, ask the donkey to come to you while clicking away. Once he approaches you, reward him with his treat, stop clicking and pet him by scratching his neck.