Science-backed ways to deepen Bond with Your Horse to have a friendly relationship.
After spending so much time together, it’s easy for riders and their horses to form a close bond. This is especially true if you teach your horse through clicker training or another positive reinforcement system where building trust is an integral part of your training process. Science-backed ways to bond with your horse
But even if you are primarily working with traditional training methods, there are still many ways to deepen the connection between you and your horse – both mentally and physically. Science-backed ways to bond with your horse
Below are six science-backed ways to help you bond with your horse Science-backed ways to connect with your horse.
Out and About Science-backed ways to bond with your horse
Getting out into the world together is a great way to strengthen your relationship. Whether you go trail riding, try a new competition, or simply ride in a different place in your home arena, going out and about allows you to have experiences together that form strong memory Science-backed ways to bond with your horse.
Take a Class Science-backed ways to bond with your horse
Taking a class is a beautiful way to spend time with your horse and learn new skills at the same time, Science-backed ways to bond with your horse.
Choose a subject that interests you or one that will help your ride Science-backed ways to bond with your horse.
Have a Date Science-backed ways to bond with your horse
Doing something special for just the two of you can strengthen your relationship Science-backed ways to connect with your horse.
Ideally, choose something you can do together Science-backed ways to bond with your horse.
If that’s not possible, then enjoy a quiet evening at home Science-backed ways to bond with your horse.
- Get More Sleep Science-backed ways to bond with your horse
Horses need about twice as much sleep as humans Science-backed ways to connect with your horse Science-backed ways to communicate with your horse.
Getting enough sleep will make you feel and look better
- Ride More Often Science-backed ways to bond with your horse
It allows you to have fun with your horse Science-backed ways to bond with your horse.
It also allows you the opportunity to practice new skills.
- Be Consistent Science-backed ways to bond with your horse.
Consistency creates trust between you Science-backed ways to bond with your horse.
It also allows you to get on the same page with your horse.
Surface helps you form strong memory Science-backed ways to connect with your horse.
How do you bond with your horse?
If you’re looking for a sure-fire plan to build the best relationship with your horse, look no further. Bonding with your four-legged friend can be easy and fun!
- Hugs & nuzzles
- Eye contact
- Pat, touch, brush
- Positive reinforcement
- Let them keep their “wild” side
Hugs & Nuzzles:
Horses are social animals, and like all other animals (including humans), they love to be touched! (Tickle, anyone?) When you’re grooming your horse, reach back and hug it while you’re doing it. When you’re bathing your horse, nuzzle your face into the side of its neck and give it kisses.
Eye Contact:
Horses can see behind themselves and on either side with almost 360-degree vision (minus the area that’s directly in front of their noses). Their eyes are so large they have a nearly panoramic view of their surroundings. So, when you’re grooming or tacking up your horse, gaze into its eyes and coo to it.
Pat, Touch & Brush:
A soothing pat on the neck is one of the most basic ways to bond. Also, stand next to your horse so you can use both hands to pet and brush your horse. The more areas you can reach, the better!
Positive Reinforcement:
A simple “Good boy!” or a pat on the neck can go a long way to reinforcing your bond.
Let Them Keep Their “Wild” Side: Horses are prey animals and still have some of those instincts inside them. When a horse feels threatened, it will try to defend itself in any way possible. They don’t have hands with which to hit someone or something, so they’ll use their teeth and hooves if necessary! So, when you’re grooming your horse, be very aware of where its mouth is at all times. If a horse moves suddenly or throws his head up, chances are he felt you encroaching on his personal space. Don’t get discouraged if your horse’s mouth ever makes contact with you. It probably means he trusts you and lets you know he doesn’t feel threatened by you.
In Conclusion:
Bonding with your horse doesn’t have to be complicated! Just follow these five steps, and your horse will love you even more!