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Step 1
Use a calm, soothing demeanor when you train a horse to overcome its fear of the water. By gently bringing your horse away from the edge of the water and by taking the time to let the animal calm down, you will build the confidence the horse will have in your judgment. Simply bring the animal to the edge of the water repeatedly and patiently, and be insistent about your intention to cross the water.
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Step 2
Avoid kicking the horse to propel it forward through the water. By losing your temper with the animal and causing physical pain, you will basically double the fear the animal has for running water, and it will be much more difficult to overcome this obstacle. Always train your horse through positive reinforcement and not punishment.
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Step 3
Act like a hero when you train your horse to overcome a fear of the water. A horse can be very much like a child and will attempt potentially risky maneuvers as long as it feels like you are there to guide it and to protect it from danger. If the horse becomes skittish or even spooked, get into its line of sight and show it that you are not afraid and that all is well.
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Step 4
Let the horse approach the water at its own pace to overcome its fear. A horse may perceive danger within the water and may merely need to sniff at it for a while to understand what it is.
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Step 5
Reward your horse with praise (and maybe a carrot or two) as it crosses the water. Continue to pet the horse's mane and whisper into its ear as it ventures into the water. Once it crosses the water successfully, heap additional praise and even repeat the process a few times until the horse no longer fears the water.
