How to Train a Horse From the Start

Training horses is an imperative part of owning the large, beautiful animals. Training insures they are safe around humans as well as able to perform certain duties as requested by humans. Historically horses have been trained for transportation, farm work and even war. Today, horses are primarily trained for sport and specialized functions, such as stunt work, therapy and crowd control under the supervision of police. There are several opinions on training horses, but you can learn the basics when the horses are old enough to begin training.

Things You'll Need

  • Horse stable
  • Round paddock or training pen
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin training when the horse is approximately 18 months to two years old. The horse is developed enough at this age to begin training. Spend plenty of time with the horse prior to training so it is used to you.

    • 2

      Move the horse into its own stall, independent from its mother. Keep it there for a few days, providing it with food, water and regular cleaning until the animal grows accustomed to its new surroundings.

    • 3

      Move the horse from its own stall to a round paddock or training pen. This is a semienclosed area where the horse is able to move and run, but its movements are directed by you.

    • 4

      Command the horse to run. The horse will likely be frightened by its new surroundings and run without command, but this is acceptable as it allows the animal to warm up. Keep the horse running and do not allow it to change direction or stop without your permission. Commanding the horse also allows it to learn your voice.

    • 5

      Allow the horse to stop running after a few minutes and provide positive reinforcement with statements such as "Good girl" or "Good boy," similar to the praise issued when training a dog.

    • 6

      Work the horse for about 20 minutes daily. Longer amounts of time will wear the animal down and make it less likely to retain training information.