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Training Tips

Training Tips
April 26, 2016

Training Tip: Drawn to the Arena Gate

All horses have what I like to call magnets–objects they are naturally drawn to. Magnets can be things like the barn or other horses in the arena or pasture. A common magnet for horses, especially horses ridden mainly in arenas is the arena gate. Horses are drawn to arena gates because the gate leads to […]

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Training Tips
April 19, 2016

Training Tip: School ‘Em and Fool ‘Em

Horses are smart enough to know when they can chump us and when they can’t. For example, more than likely, if your horse spooked at an object when you were riding him at home, you’d immediately correct him and solve the problem. However, when we’re at a show and we’re being judged, most of us […]

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Training Tips
April 12, 2016

Training Tip: A Horse That Plays With the Bit

It’s very normal for young horses to mouth and play with the bit. They’re just trying to figure out what the new piece of equipment is. When I put a bit in a horse’s mouth for the first time, I like to practice groundwork with the mecate bridle so the horse gets used to feeling […]

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Training Tips
April 5, 2016

Training Tip: Safely Bring Your Horse Back to Work

If your horse has had the winter off and you’re ready to get back in the saddle, keep these success tips in mind so that it is a safe and enjoyable experience. The first two sessions you spend with your horse after time off should consist of strictly groundwork. Groundwork is the safest way to […]

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Training Tips
March 22, 2016

Training Tip: Horses That Ignore the One Rein Stop

Here’s a scenario that’s common for a lot of riders: They’re riding their horse on the trail and the horse spooks and takes off. When they do a One Rein Stop to regain control of the situation, the horse bends his head to the side, but keeps running sideways. When you do a One Rein […]

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Training Tips
March 15, 2016

Training Tip: Start Your Colt in a Hackamore

I start all of my colts in a hackamore, and continue to ride them in a hackamore for their first 10 to 15 rides because it gives them a chance to learn how to give and soften to pressure while I’m up on their backs without having to deal with a bit just yet. It […]

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Training Tips
March 8, 2016

Training Tip: Pick-Up-Feet Cue

Are you one of those horse owners who has to use both hands to pull your horse’s hooves up off the ground every time you want to pick them out? You’re not alone, but there’s an easier method. Use my tips to teach your horse to effortlessly pick up his feet off a gentle cue. […]

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Training Tips
March 1, 2016

Training Tip: Stand Still for Mounting

A horse that constantly moves around when you try to slip your foot in the stirrup is not only frustrating, but potentially dangerous. A well trained horse stands quietly while you mount and waits for your cue to move off once you’re situated in the saddle. People who have trouble with their horses fidgeting when […]

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Training Tips
February 23, 2016

Training Tip: First Saddling Success Tip

The key to successfully introducing the saddle to a colt is to get his feet moving forward and to give him time to get comfortable wearing the saddle. A lot of horses will stand calmly while you do up the cinches, but once they start moving and feel the cinches pulling on their bellies and […]

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Training Tips
February 16, 2016

Training Tip: Pinny-Eared Horses

When we see horses being worked and their ears are pinned back, we often assume the horse is cranky or upset. While that can certainly be the case, it’s not always true. When a horse is working really hard and paying close attention, he’ll often tip his ears back to his handler or rider, showing […]

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