Building Trust

[mustang_hope22]

I just have one simple question:

What are some ways build trust between my horse and I??? thanks guys!@

[taelesean]

Take a book and a chair and park your self just outside their stall, where they can see and smell you and just quietly read and pay quiet attention to your horse.

Another favorite of mine is to lead them haltered into a particularily nice grazing area outside their pasture and rub and scratch on them while they graze.

[redboy]

I also ALWAYS reward Red for coming into the barn, when I go out there, either with a treat, a pat, or some rubbing. I want that when HE initiates being with me, for it to always be a positive experience, so he will continue to want to be with me. RB

[Midwest Paint]

Depending on if you have an older horse, or a baby, there are a few basic things you can do to really warm them up and trust you, as well as bonding!

With the older ones (over a year or two), I found that a consistant schedule of feedings help the horse understand that you bring the food, and are a positive thing. As you feed it doesnt hurt to touch, rub, find their itchy spots and make em feel good!

The same goes with the younger ones. I have always had better luck with new babies as they dont have any prejudices due to previous handlers. But still the same feeding and petting method.

The final cap to a strong trust and bond is training. Starting with the small things such as leading, and leading in strange new places, while talking to them as you go, they begin to understand that even when in new and scary places, you being calm and with them, will provide safety and comfort. Before you know it, they wont want to leave your side and will jump to, the moment the see you coming to them, and desire to stick with you!