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Approaching a horse [video]

I've worked with and been around literally thousands of different horses over the years - all different breeds and all different temperaments. And while each horse has its own personality, they all have one very important thing in common. How you approach them makes all the difference in the world in whether they "invite you in" or turn away from you.

This is where it really helps to think like your horse. Horses are prey animals. So if you march aggressively toward them, staring them in the eyes and trying to be dominant, what do you think their reaction will be? They'll see you as a predator or a threat, and instinctively move away from you. Here's the method I use to approach horses to help create trust, and start building a bond with the horse:

Relax and approach gently.

First, relax as you approach the horse. Don't act like a predator! If you're tense, the horse will pick up on that. Once you're relaxed, approach the horse slowly and calmly. Turn your eyes away from the horse's eyes and look down at his knee. This is very important to help show the horse you are not a threat to him.

Watch and wait for the "invitation."

As you slowly approach the horse with a relaxed body position, looking away from the eyes, watch for sinns that the horse is "inviting you in." If he turns his head or front quarters toward you, licks his lips, softens his eyes - he's "invited you in." Continue to keep his attention, and walk in slowly.

Release pressure when necessary.

If the horse does the opposite of "inviting you in" - say he turns his head away from you, starts to walk away, or ignores you completely, then back off immediately and take the pressure off him. If you quickly back off at the very first sign of the horse turning away, he will stop, relax, and think about "inviting you in" instead of thinking about getting away from you.

Introduce yourself.

When I approach a horse, I always introduce myself. It's the polite and respectful thing to do. Once the horse invites me in, I hold my hand out, palm down, and let the horse sniff me. When their eyes soften, I then rub their neck, their muzzle, or any other area that makes the horse feel relaxed and comfortable.

By using these simple techniques to approach a horse, you'll build a higher level of trust, confidence, and stronger bond with your horse. And that's what it's all about. Stay safe and have fun!