How to Train an Ear-Shy Miniature Horse

Despite their size, miniature horses have the same behavioral problems, issues and naturally inherited traits as any regular sized horses. They should be cared for and trained in the same manner as other horses, as problems can occur when owners spoil them due to their size. If possible, train the horse as a foal to accept having its ears touched, but if an issue arises during its life it will be necessary to desensitize it.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find out, if possible, the reason for the ear-shyness. There are several causes, including pain in the ear caused by ear mites, too-tight bridle, rough handling as a youngster or being hit on the head and ears. Check the bridle and alter it if necessary so that when the problem has been solved, the bridle fits properly and does not cause the issue to recur.

    • 2

      Start by rubbing your horse's cheek gently, and stroking over its eye, choosing a time when the horse is relaxed and at ease. Encourage it to drop its head as this is a sign of relaxation and trust. Do not overshadow the horse, but come down to its level, which it will find less intimidating.

    • 3

      Take your hand soothingly up toward the horse's ear and very quickly pass over its ear and rub down its neck. This is known as advance and retreat, and the horse will probably react by quickly putting its head up in a sign of tension. However, if you retreat quickly enough, it will hardly notice the touch on its ear and should lower its head relatively soon.

    • 4

      Repeat on both sides, ensuring your touch is light, nonthreatening and quickly removed. Do not move on until your horse stops reacting at this level and does not raise the head at your touch. Take time over a few days to complete this stage, and repeat several times a day.

    • 5

      Let your hand rest marginally longer on his ears, ensuring that you remove it before the horse reacts. Learn to recognize the signs of its reaction and always be a split-second ahead of it. Build up gradually the time your hand is in contact with its ears but at this stage check your touch is always light.

    • 6

      Run your hand up and down the ears lightly and encourage it to drop its head as you do. Always talk soothingly to the horse and back it up with positive rewards, such as a small treat when it drops its head and relaxes.

    • 7

      Introduce a soft brush to its ears and gently use it between the ears and up their length. Remember to retreat before any reaction and if it is still unsure, go back a step and work on that until it is relaxed again. Keep building the time and the pressure until it is desensitized.