Working with a nervous horse can be both a challenging and rewarding experience. Horses, like humans, have their own personalities, and some are naturally more anxious than others. Understanding and addressing the root of their nervousness is key to building a strong and trusting relationship.
Having a nervous youngster myself, I am very familiar with the challenges they present! Here are some of the practical tips that worked for me when working with my nervous nelly:
Establish Trust
Trust is the foundation of any relationship, especially with a nervous horse. Spend time with your horse outside of training sessions. Simple activities like grooming, hand grazing, or just being in their presence can help your horse see you as a friend rather than a threat.
Create a Calm Environment
A horse’s environment plays a significant role in their behaviour. Ensure their surroundings are as calm and stable as possible. Reduce loud noises, sudden movements, and other potential stressors. A consistent routine can also help provide a sense of security.
Use Gentle and Consistent Handling
Always approach a nervous horse calmly and confidently. Sudden movements and loud voices can exacerbate their anxiety. Use slow, deliberate movements and speak in a soothing tone. Consistency in your handling will help your horse understand what to expect, reducing their overall stress.
Groundwork is Key
Groundwork exercises are excellent for building confidence and trust. Simple activities such as leading, stopping, backing up, and yielding to pressure can help your horse focus and respond to you positively. These exercises establish clear communication and help your horse learn to trust your guidance.
Positive Reinforcement
Rewarding your horse for calm and cooperative behaviour reinforces the behaviour you want to see. Use treats, gentle pats, and verbal praise to let your horse know when they’re doing something right. Positive reinforcement encourages your horse to repeat good behaviour and builds their confidence.
Patience and Persistence
Patience is crucial when working with a nervous horse. Progress may be slow, and setbacks are common, but persistence pays off. Never rush your horse or force them into situations they’re not ready for. Give them the time they need to adjust and learn at their own pace.
Professional Help
If your horse’s nervousness seems beyond what you can manage, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. An experienced trainer or equine behaviourist can provide valuable insights and techniques tailored to your horse’s specific needs.
I closely follow Miriam Hackett (Miri) on my social channels and Youtube, and found her to be an extremely valuable resource. If your working with problem or nervous horses, I highly recommend viewing her content and seeing if her approach works for you!
In Summary…
Working with a nervous horse requires empathy, patience, and a commitment to understanding their unique perspective. By creating a calm environment, establishing trust, and using gentle, consistent handling, you can help your horse become more confident and relaxed. Remember, every small step forward is a victory, and the bond you build with your horse will be stronger for the journey you’ve shared.
Pushing On Daisy 