Trick training starting at a young age?
Nina asked:
Just wanted to hear your opions…. the person who i get my horses off trick trains all her horses and its amazing every one of hers can do tricks and she is helping me with my little baby she said to start from day one, simply by lieing him down and sitting him down and constantly patting him all over… im doing all this with him and its going really well he is such an angel but he is just so naughty he chases the dogs and trys to play with me its so adorable but i dont want to encourage bad habbits whats some simply stress free ways to make these habbits not turn bad? to stop nipping and kicking?? and also opinions on trick training are very welcome? thanks:)
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I trained my pony to take a bow at the age of 2.
You have to respond immediately to naughty behavior. Even before if you learn to predict when he will bite or kick.
Say a sharp, loud “UH-UH” and re-direct his attention.
Clicker training uses positive reinforcement methods and is the best way to train just about any animal, especially young ones.
Get a clicker at a pet store. You can also use a whistle. Start by clicking at meal times so that he learns the click means food. Then click him when he does something you want. Treats should be very small, like raisin size. Dried apple, banana, any fruit, really is candy for horses and they really enjoy it. Not too much though.
I think trick training is great.
I trained my big mule to lay down for me to get on him.
Things like that tho, really shouldn’t be taught till about age 5 when their backs are completely solid and can handle the weight.
I probably wouldn’t teach bowing till they were at least 3.
I think trick training is a wonderful thing however, good luck!!
I think it’s great that your training your horse at such an early age, he’s sure to be a great horse when he grows up. As for his bad habits, be sure not to acnoledge them as ‘good behaviors’ . Try not to pet him and say its cute, (even though it may be). =)
thats cool good luck
It is hard, but you better dicipline him early so he will not have bad habits later. Be firm and be consistent