Getting Acquainted with Your Horse

Continuing Your Progress

The next day you return and repeat the above process. Depending on the horse you may be able to approach him always come at him from the side, not the front or hind) and let him know you wont hurt him. When he accepts your presence, you can then begin to touch him all over, starting from the shoulder. Pet lightly but decisively, the shoulder, the neck, the back, the body, the forehead, and gently touch the muzzle and the ears.

Remember to be calm yourself, and don't be nervous. Nervous trainers cannot teach a horse, because the horse is aware of your emotions even when you think they are well hidden. If you are nervous, do not attempt to train that day. Wait until you are calm.

Once you can touch a horse all over its body, you can even give him little massages with your fingertips. Now you have become acquainted with your horse, and he is now ready to listen to you when you begin his halter training.