1. Pre-gentling:
- Start by building trust and rapport with the horse. Spend time near the horse, grooming, talking, and feeding it. This helps establish a bond and encourages the horse to accept your presence.
2. Haltering:
- Introduce a halter and gently place it on the horse's head. Allow them time to get used to the feeling. Lead them around using the halter, and reward them with treats for positive behavior.
3. Grooming:
- Use a brush and comb to groom the horse regularly. Grooming builds a sense of trust and helps desensitize the horse to human touch.
4. Establishing Ground Manners:
- Begin teaching basic ground manners, such as standing still while being led, following you, and stopping when asked. Reward good behavior with treats and praise.
5. Saddling:
- Gradually introduce the saddle to the horse by placing it on their back for short periods. Allow them to get comfortable with the sensation. Gradually increase the time they wear the saddle.
6. Mounting:
- Once the horse is comfortable with the saddle, start mounting and dismounting. Begin with low mounts, using a mounting block or platform. Practice mounting smoothly and calmly.
7. Walking:
- Once mounted, start walking the horse in a straight line. Use light cues with reins and legs, and reward the horse for following your commands.
8. Steering and Turning:
- Gradually introduce steering by gently pulling on the reins. Reward them when they respond correctly. Practice turns in both directions.
9. Voice Commands:
- Begin using voice commands, such as "walk" and "stop." Consistency is key, and associate each command with a specific action.
10. Building Speed:
- As the horse becomes more comfortable and responsive, start increasing walking speed and introducing light jogs or trotting. Always maintain control and provide clear cues.
11. Advanced Maneuvers:
- Once the basics are mastered, you can start introducing more advanced maneuvers, such as backing up, side-passing, and jumping small obstacles.
Remember, breaking a horse requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Building a trusting relationship with the horse is essential for successful gentling and training. Always seek guidance from experienced trainers or professionals when necessary.