Every rider IS a trainer -- every time you interact with a horse

Fantastic! Every single interaction with a horse is training it - that includes in the field, feeding, haltering - every single thing. Great post!

I am another who totally agrees with the OP. Horses are not born with bad habits or vices.

I think this is an excellent post as well. Now you need to follow up with "Tips to recognize when you are in over your head". LOL

Wonderful!! People who want to 'bond' with their horse need to understand that you have to earn it, and you earn it by training them!

Great post! Can you post this on craigs list to pop up everytime someone searches 'horse for sale"?

I was thinking about this post yesterday while I was riding and had to think that not only is, "every rider a trainer" but also that "every rider is being trained" every time you interact with a horse. I think it is important that people are in a learning and teaching mode when riding horses. But it also takes time and experience to know what you should be learning. Horse trainers are invaluable for the horse, and for the rider. Too often people think that horse trainers are only for horses, when in reality the rider is the one who needs to be trained.

Perfectly put! This should come attached to every horse's halter when someone new gets them!

This is exactly what im trying to achieve with my pony but I just don't feel like im getting anywhere.. Perhaps you could help me? I just posted the 'spooky naughty pony' thing and I think half of the problem is the fact that his owner just lets him get away with everything.. I've heard from others that when they take him out for a hack most of the time they come back leading him. I feel like what im trying to do is getting him and me nowhere :( Take a read and tell me what you think? I don't know whether to just give up and find a different horse :(

I hope all of our young and/or new members read this. It just may help a rider understand what our interaction with a horse can or can't do. I'm going to stick this thread.

Loved your post Cherie! Absolutely agree 100%. I have definitely been guilty of blaming my horse for behaviours which in hindsight have been created by me. As I get older I am learning that when I know better, I do better.

Thank you for this post. I read it twice and have now decided to print it out and place it on my saddle to be read before each ride. These words need to be memorized and be a part of every rider's thinking before, during, and after each ride. I appreciate every word. Thank you again!