How to Clicker Train a Horse
There are numerous ways one can train a horse. Clicker training is a method that provides positive reinforcement for you horse by rewarding correct behavior with a clicking sound and a treat. You can train your horse to complete simple tasks or even more complicated performance skills using this method.
Items Needed:
- Horse
- Clicking device
- Treats for rewards
Instructions
- Encourage your horse to successfully complete a simple task such as touching an object with his nose. As soon as he does it, click the clicker and reward him with a treat. Repeat this until he understands that to receive the treat he must touch the object with his nose. Always providing positive reinforcement in the form of a treat after clicking the clicker.
- Teach your horse to learn something that is not as easy, something that he is not good at. For example, if he refuses to pick up his feet run your hand down his leg to his hoof and then click and give him a treat. Do not give a treat or click until he performs the task properly.
- Pick up his hoof and if he tolerates it well and remains still, click the clicker and reward him with a treat. Advance to holding his knee. If he allows this, use the clicker and a treat. If he does not, continue with just the hoof until he progresses to allowing you to hold his knee. Be sure to reward him when he has demonstrated the behavior as directed.
Remember to always use the clicker as positive reinforcement and always provide a treat for a job well done. You can then advance to more complicated skills once he has simple tasks mastered. Once you feel confident your horse understands and is doing well you can move to making the clicking noise with your tongue as to not have to carry the clicker around.