How to Get a Shy Horse to Trust

When a horse is shy it is typically because he has had a bad experience with a human in the past. If he has been abused or handled roughly he learns to be afraid of humans. To teach your horse to trust you, you need to establish a good relationship and show him that you are a good alpha pack leader. Never use behavior that the horse associates with a predator.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Approach the horse from a diagonal direction rather than head on. Walk up to her slowly, stopping every now and then and looking away the horse. If you walk up to her fast she is likely to run away.
2. Talk to your horse in a quiet gentle voice as you approach him. Predators typically approach their pray in silence, so a silent approach sends up red flags to horses.
3. Coax the horse into coming to you instead of you approaching her. Horses are generally curious by nature. Turn you back to the horse and act disinterested, fiddle with the fence or something in your hands. Try to convince your horse that you are involved in something interesting and she might come to you to see what you are doing.
4. Gently rub the horses nose and forehead in small circles to calm him and show him that your touch is nice and does not hurt. If he pulls away from you do not force the physical contact.
5. Mirror her body language. If she backs away from you, take a step backwards yourself to show her you are not aggressive and are not a threat.

Tips & Warnings

• Never show the horse your fear. Horses are good at sensing our feelings and emotions. If he knows you are afraid he can't trust you to be alpha leader. It is important that your horse feels you are brave and capable of leading the pack.
• If your horse is very shy she could be dangerous. If she tries to kick or bit you, walk away from her slowly and give her some time before approaching her again.