Do Horses Actually Like Being Ridden?

In England, they call this sacking out. Cowboys just call it “getting the boogers out,” and it does work. The horse can't enjoy a good ride if he is scared of his surroundings, but once the fear has been realized to be nothing at all, then he can enjoy a good ride.

Praise and Treats Work Wonders

I have also used imprint training and brought the concept into all of my training to some extent. This means interacting with the horse and praising him when he successfully completes a task. This can also involve giving treats, such as a carrot or apple slices.

Just as a caution, you should know that you shouldn‘t give more than two carrots per day! Too many carrots can cause an impaction in the intestines, so mix it up with apples and other treats too. Major likes turnips! Remember that the main thing is for the horse to imprint with you, so praise and a positive attitude are more important than any kind of treat.

As the trainer, I am the leader of my herd. I let the horse become a part of my herd, and when he accomplishes any task, no matter how small, I praise him and let him know that he is definitely a part and that he has done well. I can see the expression that he gets on his face, and I know that he is having fun.

Happy Horses Miss Riding as Much as Good Riders Do

We have just received about 17 inches of rain, and right now, everything is muddy beyond belief. Major had to go into the barn along with Apache because of the mud in the round pens. When I go to feed them, they are safe in their stalls, but Major's eyes fix on me the second I enter the barn. He puts his ears straight up until I tell him, “Not today!” Then he looks away. I know that he misses going for rides, and I am ready as soon as the mud is gone and it is much drier so we can go riding again, even if it is just to look at the daisies.