Learn the correct way to approach your horse in the field.

By Dennis Brouse

I’ve worked with and been around thousands of horses over the years – different breeds and 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 a horse, staring him in the eyes and trying to be dominant, what do you think his reaction will be? He’ll see you as a predator or a threat and instinctively move away from you. Here’s the method I use to approach a horse to help create trust and start building a bond:

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1. 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.

2. Watch and wait for the “invitation.”

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

3. 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.

4. Introduce yourself.

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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 his eyes soften, I rub his neck, his 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.

Dennis Brouse is the host of the public TV show “Saddle Up With Dennis Brouse.” Visit Dennis’ site to watch a video demonstrating how to “Approach a Horse.”

Special Event

Out Here With Horses

Join Tractor Supply Co. on October 24 for special deals, giveaways and activities and to learn more about horse ownership. Go online to find out whether any of the TSC stores in your area are hosting an “Out Here With Horses” event this month.

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