How to Earn a Horse's Trust

Traditionally, the word for training a horse was "breaking." However, a different approach has been shown to work better than roughly insisting on a horse's cooperation. A true team, based on trust rather than fear, will make your horse work for you and will improve your interactions with him. But first you must build his trust, not always easy since a horse is a prey animal, cautious and ready for flight at any time. Even more patience will be required if he has been mishandled or mistreated.

Things You'll Need

  • Healthy treats (carrots, apples, hay)
  • Curry comb or brush
  • Halter
  • Lead rope
  • Longe line (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Spend time with your horse without riding him. Simply sit or stand near your horse during the day while you clean tack; or brush him, clean his hooves, and comb his mane and tail.

    • 2
      Use treats to build a positive association with your horse.

      Give your horse treats, such as carrots, apples, or handfuls of hay. Giving treats will build a positive association with you in his mind. Be careful not to overindulge him, however; give treats only as a reward for good behavior.

    • 3

      Take your horse for walks, leading him with the halter and lead rope. Leading your horse not only builds trust, but also is a good way to begin training him voice commands. Talk to him while you walk, asking him to walk or halt. Soon he will understand these commands, which you can use when you ride him.

    • 4

      Run your horse around in a round corral for a while, or on a longe line, cuing him to walk, trot, and canter at your command. Working together this way will build trust and understanding.

    • 5

      Assert your authority. If your horse misbehaves, deprive him of a reward and work with him until he does as you ask. Do not lose your temper and do not ever punish him, which will undermine the trust you are trying to build,