Below is a quick little video I made with a few tips on how to stop your horse from nipping.

Here are some more tips to help you discourage your horse from nipping or biting:

• Consistency is Key:
  • Be consistent in your reactions to nipping. Horses remember better through repetition and consistency.

• Pay Attention:
  • Pay attention to your horse and notice when he is getting mouthy or changes his attitude.

• React Quickly:
  • React right away when your horse starts to get too mouthy or starts to nip so you can correct it quickly. Don’t wait until your horse bites you.

• Use a Verbal Command:
  • Accompany your correction with a verbal command that is firm but not punishing or harsh. Your horse has learned to listen to your requests, so ask normally.

• Redirect Attention:
  • If your horse is nipping out of boredom or playfulness, redirect his attention to something else. Try a toy or a treat ball.

• Positive Reinforcement:
  • After you ask your horse to stop nipping and he responds, reinforce the good behavior with positive reinforcement. Offer praise, scratches, or treats.

• Establish Boundaries:
  • Horses all understand personal boundaries, so just make sure he knows where yours are. It is a sign of respect.

• Body Language:
  • Pay attention to your body language. Your horse reads it intently.  Make sure you are avoiding behaviors that may encourage nipping, like how you are feeding treats.

• Emotions:
  • Do not reprimand in anger, use a whip or a rope to hit your horse, or scream at your horse. Avoid creating aggression or fear.  Those emotions will be seen as an attack and this may cause your horse to bite you.

• Work on Ground Manners:
  • Groundwork can help improve overall manners. Practice leading, lunging, and other ground exercises to establish your role as an integral herd member and leader.

• Check for Pain or Discomfort:
  • Sometimes, nipping can be a sign of pain or discomfort. Check for any physical issues, such as dental problems or ill-fitting tack, that might be causing your horse distress.

• Professional Help:
  • If the nipping persists or worsens despite your efforts, consider seeking help from a professional horse trainer or behaviorist.

Remember, each horse is an individual, and what works for one may not work for another.

It’s essential to be patient and observant as you work to correct the behavior.

This is a relationship that is developing between you and your horse so be kind and considerate as the two of you work it out together.

Until next week, have a great weekend, and Happy Horses!

The post How to Stop Nipping Behaviors appeared first on Teddie Ziegler Horsemanship.

Interesting, huh?!

I always try to be as positive as possible, but sometimes it’s harder than normal.  This year, as you know, has been harder than most.  I’ve had three surgeries this year and have basically been recovering the whole year.

I have good days and bad days with the healing.  And some days I just have to let it out and cry.  But then I look at my situation again and change my outlook because I know that it will get better and I know that this is what recovery looks like…good and bad.

I’m grateful for the good days and that there are more good days than bad.

Being positive is helpful not only for your physical health but also for your emotional and mental well-being. Studies have shown that patients with positive outlooks heal quicker and better than patients with negative outlooks.

Plus, people with positive outlooks have better responses to obstacles in their lives and have less depression.  It’s because of the positive outlook of being able to overcome and work through whatever life throws your way instead of complaining and wallowing in negativity.

If you think you’re going to succeed and overcome obstacles or you think you’re going to fail and everything bad always happens to you… You’re right!

Here’s an example:

I’ve told you that my husband is not a horse person and has never been around horses until we got married a few years ago.  But when he met Merlin, it was magical.  The two of them have an incredible connection and love that is beyond words.

Well, after I got out of the hospital we were told that the horse farm we were at, along with 30 other horses, had been sold and that everyone had 90 days to move out.

That was a shock!  The place we loved and was so perfect for us and Merlin was now going away.  Well, we found a place that we hoped would be good and where Merlin would be happy.  The problem was…I couldn’t move him because I couldn’t walk.  I can’t even put weight on my left leg to stand up.

This meant that my husband would have to move Merlin by himself.  Not being a horse person with very little, if any, horsemanship knowledge…this was going to be very difficult for him.

I hired a hauler to take Merlin from one place to another, but Mark still had to halter Merlin, get him out of his pasture, lead him down a very long roadway, across a noisy driveway entrance, and then up to the trailer.

The one thing I kept telling my husband was that Merlin loved him more than anything and that he would no doubt do whatever he asked of him as long as he was patient, intentional, and kind.  All of which were easy for my husband.

I told him to listen to his heart and that it was all about the relationship he had with Merlin.  He didn’t need anything else and it was his job to protect Merlin and make sure he was safe.  He could do that.

And you know, that’s all it took.  It all went well and when I heard the story my husband told when he got home, I just teared up.  It went well only because he stayed positive and listened to his heart.

Here is what he told me:

• He said that he had some trouble getting the halter on, but Merlin was patient and actually moved his nose into the halter for him and helped him get it on.

• He said that when he looked down that long road he had to walk Merlin down that he got really nervous. But Merlin stopped and nuzzled into him to reassure him and he calmed down.

• He said that when Merlin got scared and stopped along the road, especially at the noisy entrance, he just hugged Merlin around the neck and said, “It’s ok boy, we can do this”. And Merlin then started back up and walked with him.

• He said that when the hauler took Merlin’s lead and he looked back at Mark for reassurance, Mark told him it was OK and Merlin moved forward and went into the trailer.

• He said that when they got to the new place, Merlin wasn’t comfortable getting out of the truck and the hauler was going to use a whip to get him out. But he stopped her and went up behind Merlin and said it was ok to come out and Merlin proceeded to back out slowly and let Mark take the lead.

• He said that when Merlin went into his new pasture, he just stayed at the fence line with Mark and the two of them hung out together for the next 30 minutes telling each other that it all worked out and it was going to be fine.

If my husband had not had such a good, positive outlook and such an amazing connection with Merlin it never would have worked.  Merlin is very sensitive to people’s emotions and stays away from negative people or people who are stressed or angry.

But his trust and love for my husband are so strong.  They both KNOW that they would do anything and everything for each other.

Positivity can make a world of difference with your horse, your relationship, and your training.  It is something not to take lightly.

Until next week, have a great weekend, and Happy Horses!

The post Positive Vibes! appeared first on Teddie Ziegler Horsemanship.

It’s a method like relationship-based training that emphasizes building a strong bond and communication between the horse and the trainer or handler.

However, training a horse at liberty refers to working with a horse without the use of ropes, halters, or any physical restraints. This is not always the case in relationship-based training.

Relationship training can be done at liberty or not.  Training at liberty can be done with or without being based on a true heartfelt relationship.

But ultimately, both methods of training are best when done in combination with each other.

This is the type of training I do with my horses and what I teach to my students… a natural combination of both approaches.

When you give your horse a choice to do what he/she wants without pressure or tack and he/she chooses to be with you based on the love and friendship between the two of you…

That is when the magic happens!

Here are some key principles and steps involved in training a horse at liberty:

• Establish a Trusting Relationship:
  • Before starting to train your horse at liberty, it’s essential to have a solid foundation of trust and respect with the horse. Spend time building a strong bond through groundwork and positive interactions. One of the ways to do this is through relationship-based training.
• Establish a Trusting Relationship:
  • Before starting to train your horse at liberty, it’s essential to have a solid foundation of trust and respect with the horse. Spend time building a strong bond through groundwork and positive interactions. One of the ways to do this is through relationship-based training.
• Choose the Right Location:
  • Before starting to train your horse at liberty, select a safe and enclosed area, such as a large round pen, arena, or securely fenced pasture. The horse should not be able to jump out. It should also be an area that is big enough for the horse to leave your presence if he/she chooses.
• Body Language and Communication:
  • This type of training relies heavily on non-verbal communication and body language. You’ll use your gestures, posture, and your energy to convey your intentions to your horse.
• Start with Basic Commands:
  • Begin with simple commands that the horse already knows, such as “walk,” “trot,” “stop,” and “back up.” Use consistent verbal cues alongside your body language.
• Positive Reinforcement:
  • Reward your horse with praise, petting, or treats when he/she responds correctly to your cues. Positive reinforcement helps reinforce the desired behaviors. Never use punishment or removal of pain as reinforcement.

• Gradual Progression:
  • As the horse becomes more responsive and familiar with this type of training, you can introduce more advanced maneuvers and commands. These may include lateral movements, changes of direction, and transitions between gaits.

• Maintain Safety:
  • While training your horse at liberty, always prioritize your safety. Be prepared for unexpected reactions from your horse and be ready to take control if necessary. Your horse has the freedom to go and do what he wants. So, keep a safe distance and avoid putting yourself in a potentially dangerous situation.

• Build Trust and Confidence:
  • Training your horse at liberty is not just about obedience; it’s also about building the horse’s trust and confidence in you as a leader and an integral member of the herd. Consistency, patience, and positive interactions are key to achieving this.

• Develop a Bond:
  • Spend quality time with your horse outside of training sessions to strengthen your bond. Grooming, ground exercises, and simply being in the horse’s presence can help build trust.

• Respect the Horse’s Limits:
  • Every horse is different, and some may take longer to adapt to this type of training than others. Some may feel that now that they have the freedom to do what they want, they will stay away from people and training as long as they can.
  • Always respect the horse’s comfort level and avoid pushing them too hard or too fast. Once they have trust and a bond with you and feel cooperative in the training process, your horse will become more willing to follow your leadership.

• Seek Professional Guidance:
  • If you are new to training your horse at liberty or encounter challenges, consider seeking guidance from a professional trainer who specializes in this method. They can provide valuable insights and hands-on assistance.
  • I have lessons online that are self-study courses where you can begin to learn my combined method.

So, in summary:

Training a horse at liberty can be a rewarding and enriching experience for both the horse and the handler. It fosters a strong connection and allows the horse to express itself more freely, ultimately leading to a more harmonious partnership.

Then when you partner it with relationship-based training before, during, and after training at liberty, you and your horse will both have the partnership of your dreams.

Until next week, have a great weekend, and Happy Horses!

The post Relationship-Based Training vs. Training at Liberty – Part II appeared first on Teddie Ziegler Horsemanship.

However, even though they have many similarities, they are not the same type of training.  Each one can be done without the other.

First, let’s talk about what “Relationship-Based Horse Training” is…

Relationship-based horse training is a method of working with horses that emphasizes building a strong bond and mutual trust between the horse and the trainer or rider.

This approach recognizes the horse as a sentient being with its own thoughts, feelings, and needs, and it seeks to create a partnership based on communication and understanding rather than dominance or force.

Here are some key reasons why relationship-based horse training is important:

• Trust and Respect: Building a relationship this way with a horse is founded on trust and respect. When a horse trusts its handler or rider, it is more likely to cooperate willingly and respond positively to your cues and commands. This trust is essential for safe and effective training and riding.
• Safety: A trusting and respectful relationship is crucial for the safety of both the horse and the human. Horses that feel secure with their handlers are less likely to react with fear or aggression, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
• Communication: Relationship-based training emphasizes clear and effective communication between the horse and the handler. By understanding the horse’s body language, needs, and responses, the trainer can adjust their approach to meet the horse’s needs and goals. Thereby, looking at situations through your horses’ eyes.
• Emotional Well-Being: Horses are emotional animals with feelings, and their well-being depends on more than just physical care. A strong loving relationship can help address the horse’s emotional needs, reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting a happier, healthier horse.
• Performance Enhancement: Horses that have a positive relationship with their handlers often perform better in various disciplines, including riding, dressage, jumping, and more. The horse is more willing to work with the handler, resulting in improved performance and success in competitions. If you watch horse shows, I bet you always know which horse is happy to be doing whatever he is doing and which isn’t.  A happy horse always performs better with his rider.

• Long-Term Partnership: Relationship-based training fosters a long-term partnership between the horse and the human. This is particularly important for riders or trainers who plan to work with the same horse over an extended period. A strong bond can lead to years of enjoyable and productive collaboration and a better friendship.
• Ethical Consideration: Many people choose relationship-based training methods because they align with ethical principles that prioritize the well-being and dignity of the horse. These methods avoid the use of harsh or punitive techniques that can harm the horse physically or emotionally.
• Enjoyment and Satisfaction: Training a horse through a relationship-based approach can be a deeply rewarding experience for both the trainer and the horse. It fosters a sense of connection and partnership that goes beyond simply achieving goals. It becomes enjoyable for your horse to be with you and train or play with you.  Which of course, makes it more enjoyable for you as the rider or owner as well.
• Adaptability: Relationship-based training is adaptable and can be tailored to suit individual horses’ personalities, temperaments, and needs. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach but rather one that takes into account the unique characteristics of each horse and each owner/rider.

So, in summary:

Relationship-based horse training is important because it prioritizes the welfare of the horse, promotes safety, enhances performance, and fosters a deep and meaningful partnership between the horse and the human. This approach recognizes that horses are not merely tools or machines but sentient beings deserving of respect, understanding, and care.

Next week we will discuss horse training at liberty and how it is similar and different from today’s subject of relationship training.

Until next week, have a great weekend, and Happy Horses!

The post Relationship-Based Training vs. Training at Liberty – Part I appeared first on Teddie Ziegler Horsemanship.

First and foremost, I personally think that you are all your horse needs when it comes to training because it is all about the relationship you two have together.  That is what brings the two of you closer, what bonds you, and what develops the trust of your horse.

Without those, you shouldn’t be telling, or even asking, your horse to do anything.  It’s a recipe for trouble.  But when you have the connection and the trust, the communication between you becomes clearer and the willingness becomes stronger.

I have seen so many of my clients ask their horses to do things they would never have dreamt of and their horses have listened perfectly to their asks.  It was almost as if they could read each other’s minds.  But of course, they only asked once they had the connection and the trust established.

Connection = Communication = Cooperation

It has always worked for me and I see it work for others every single day!

But today I want to talk about what can happen if you send your horse out for training off-site or even have a trainer come out to your place and work your horse without you present.  At least if you are present during the training, you can spot things and stop them before your horse completely loses trust in you.

One of my readers sent me this message below …

“PLEASE strongly advise readers to do their DUE DILIGENCE and RESEARCH on so-called “trainers” prior to EVER sending their horses to any of them. So many of these so-called trainers are nothing but garbage and can/will ruin any animal for years to come, possibly ending their lives altogether, and should be charged with animal cruelty. Seen it first-hand again and again and have rescued and rehabbed my fair share. Nothing short of a disgusting tragedy. Thank you.”

I can’t agree strongly enough with what she says here.  I have seen this myself too and rescued horses in bad situations.  I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I have seen other so-called “trainers” not only ruin the horse for the owner, but damage them physically, emotionally, and mentally.

I told you in a previous blog how my farrier told me a story about a trainer making a young horse more terrified about getting his feet touched by tying his foot up so he couldn’t put it down and then just leaving him like that for too long.

What I didn’t say was that in this particular instance – not only was this horse traumatized, but he was also physically damaged.

The purpose, according to the “trainer” was to teach the young horse to be more patient, to teach him to keep his foot up as long as asked, and to not fight when his foot was up.  But they walked away from this horse while he was tied up and yes, you can imagine the worst.

This horse freaked out, trying desperately to put his foot back down since he was off balance and scared, and he fell.  Not only did he damage his hock because of the rope tied to it, but he also hurt his stifle by falling and landing hard on the concrete.  Then he got more terrified because of the pain and he flailed around on the ground doing more damage.

He was also tied too tightly to the wall and this caused more damage to his head, neck, and front legs when he fell.  When the trainer heard the noise, she supposedly came right back in but the damage was already done, and trying to get the horse loose and calmed down was difficult.

According to the person witnessing this event, it all happened in an instant.  But it was long enough to traumatize this horse for life and do some irreputable damage!  Animal Control should have been called out because this could have all been easily avoided and I consider this practice cruel and unusual punishment.

This is just one story that I’ve been told and I’ve seen many more myself.  So please, please, check out anyone who is going to train your horse, and if you can possibly be there during the process that is even better.

I’m sure everyone reading this blog is telling themselves that they would never have allowed this to happen if they had seen the trainer doing it.  And if for some reason they went along with it to follow the trainer’s advice, they never would have left their horse alone for one second.

I know you’re probably just cringing thinking about this situation. 

I always tell every horse owner to trust their gut, to trust their instincts.  And if something doesn’t feel right, look right, or you can tell your horse isn’t comfortable with something…STOP right there and don’t do it.

Things to ask yourself when looking for a trainer for your horse:

1. How long have they been training horses?
2. Read all their testimonials and contact some of their students if possible.
3. Look at any videos they have up and watch how they treat their horses. Trainers can say one thing but do another.
4. Is how they treat their horses the way you want your horse treated?
5. Where did they get their training?
6. Read their background and any articles they’ve written to see if it matches your way of thinking.
7. Go out and watch them work another horse before allowing them to work your horse.
8. Look at their horses to see if they look scared, timid, or hurt. Do they have whip marks on their body? This is a good clue to run!
9. How many horses have they trained and look at their track record?
10. Are they an expert? Have they written books about horses?
11. Do you feel they have the horse’s best interest at heart?
12. Do you think they have ethical training practices?

These are just a few things to look for when vetting a trainer.

I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to do your homework.  The wrong trainer can truly damage your horse in so many ways.  And then instead of helping your training efforts and your relationship with your horse, they will be doing more damage and causing you a lot more work and time.

I’ve seen horses get really mad at their owners when they get back from training because they were put into traumatic situations with the trainer.  They blame their owners for allowing them to be taken away and abused.  They feel that their owner didn’t protect them.

This can damage the trust your horse had in you and do more damage than good.  I’ve seen it over and over.

But the good news is that you can avoid all this turmoil by working on the relationship first.  You can honestly do the training yourself and if you need help, just get a trainer to help you, not your horse.

A relationship-based training truly works best in my experience.  It’s really about you and your horse, and the trainer should be helping you work with your horse, not your horse working with the trainer.

That’s just my personal experience and my personal opinion.  And if you need help, I am here for you…to help you help your horse.  I want you to succeed with your horsemanship goals and dreams and reach them.

That’s why I do what I do.  To enable you to be the best owner/partner your horse could ever dream of.  And for you to have the best relationship with your horse that you could dream of.

I’ve been blessed to have this myself and to have helped hundreds of other horse owners achieve this themselves.  So I know it’s not only possible but should be expected.

Until next week, have a great weekend, and Happy Horses!

The post What to Look for with Outside Trainers appeared first on Teddie Ziegler Horsemanship.

Horses, like humans, can experience boredom or become mentally fatigued if their routine lacks variety or stimulation. However, it’s important to understand that horses are different from humans and have different needs and behaviors.

While a horse may not experience boredom in the same way that humans do, they can become restless, agitated, or exhibit signs of frustration if they are subjected to repetitive or monotonous activities.

To keep horses engaged and content during rides, it’s essential to provide them with a well-rounded and varied training regimen. This can include incorporating different exercises, riding in different environments, and offering mental challenges such as obstacles or trail riding.

And don’t forget to take time to have fun with your horse when you’re not riding.  A variety of activities can help keep your horse’s mind and body stimulated.

Regular turnout in a paddock or pasture and social interaction with other horses are also important for a horse’s overall well-being.

Furthermore, it’s crucial for riders to be aware of their horse’s behavior and body language to gauge their level of engagement and comfort during a ride. Pay attention to whether your horse is acting bored or uninterested.

If a horse starts exhibiting signs of restlessness, resistance, or boredom, it may be an indication that they need a change in routine or a break from repetitive exercises.

You can also tell if your horse is bored while you ride by correctly reading your horse’s responses to your requests. Is your horse listening to you?  Does he respond to your requests quickly or slowly?  Does he seem to be paying attention to where he is putting his feet?

If you notice signs that your horse may be bored or disengaged during a ride, there are several things you can do to address the situation and keep your horse more mentally stimulated.

What to do if you think your horse is bored while riding:

1. Change up the routine: Introduce variety into your riding sessions. Alter the exercises, patterns, or routes you normally do. This can include incorporating different gaits, transitions, lateral movements, or obstacles. Changing things up can help maintain your horse’s interest.
2. Incorporate challenges: Present your horse with new challenges to keep their mind engaged. This could involve introducing ground poles, small jumps, or different obstacles that require problem-solving and coordination. These challenges can provide mental stimulation and a sense of accomplishment for your horse.
3. Take breaks and give rewards: Allow your horse to have breaks during the ride. You can dismount and hand-graze them or give them a short rest. Additionally, using positive reinforcement, such as treats, scratches, or verbal praise, can encourage your horse’s engagement and motivate him during your ride.
4. Ride with company: If possible, ride with other horses and riders. Social interaction with other horses can provide stimulation and make the ride more enjoyable for your horse. It can also help build their confidence and reduce boredom.
5. Explore new environments: Ride in different locations and explore new trails or arenas. Horses often enjoy the novelty of new surroundings, which can keep them engaged and curious.
6. Evaluate the workload: Sometimes, horses can become bored or disengaged due to being overworked or fatigued. Make sure you’re not asking too much of your horse and provide adequate rest and recovery time between rides. Varying the intensity and duration of your rides can also help keep your horse physically and mentally fresh.
7. Vary non-riding activities: When you aren’t riding your horse, do other activities like groundwork, playtime, relationship training, in-hand walks, etc. This gives your horse other activities to look forward to and keeps their mind and body stimulated.
8. Consult with a professional: If you’re unsure about how to address your horse’s boredom or disengagement, it’s always beneficial to seek guidance from a qualified equestrian professional or trainer. They can assess your horse’s specific needs and provide tailored advice and training strategies.

Remember, every horse is unique, and what works for one horse may not work for another. By being attentive to your horse’s behavior and needs, you can adjust your riding approach to keep your horse engaged, happy, and mentally stimulated.

Ultimately, keeping your horse mentally stimulated and providing a balanced riding program can help prevent boredom and contribute to your horse’s overall happiness and well-being.

Until next week, have a great weekend, and Happy Horses!

The post How to Help Your Horse Beat Boredom appeared first on Teddie Ziegler Horsemanship.

In many instances, you can develop an even stronger connection and bond while riding.

I’m very lucky to have a place that has trails on the property, and over 40 acres to roam through nature. And I have lots of places to explore – ponds, streams, hills, valleys, forests, etc.

So every time I go out on a ride I have lots of new things to do and explore that keep me and my horse interested.  New trails, different things to look at, and new challenges in the terrain.

But many horse owners don’t have access to trails like this or interesting places to ride out to.  They only have access to a riding arena.

There’s only so much you can do over and over in an arena and sometimes you can run out of things to do. Especially, if you are doing a limited amount of training.  Depending on the person and the horse, riding around an arena practicing your walk, trot, and canter can get boring after a while.

Whether riders get bored when riding their horse can vary from person to person too. Some riders find horseback riding to be an exhilarating and engaging activity that they thoroughly enjoy with their horse.

While others may occasionally experience boredom, especially during repetitive or monotonous activities such as riding in an arena or on the same familiar trails over and over.

It also varies depending on your horse’s attitude towards riding.  If your horse is excited to practice in the arena or go out on the same trails over and over, then more likely you will also be enjoying these activities.

However, to mitigate boredom during riding, many riders try to keep things interesting by varying their riding routes, incorporating new exercises or challenges, and setting goals to work towards for themselves as well as their horse.

Additionally, participating in different equestrian disciplines such as dressage, show jumping, eventing, or trail riding can add variety and excitement to the overall riding experience.  Just because your horse is a show jumper doesn’t mean that he might not enjoy something else like trails.

It’s worth noting that building a strong bond and connection with your horse, focusing on improving your riding skills and being mindful of your surrounding environment can enhance the overall experience and reduce the likelihood of boredom as well.

Ultimately, the enjoyment and engagement of riding horses depend on individual preferences and goals, your horses’ attitude, and the specific circumstances of each rider.

I can suggest some common activities and strategies that you can employ to keep yourself engaged and prevent boredom during riding.

My Top 10 Tips to Beat Boredom:

1. Set Goals: Establish specific goals for your riding sessions, such as working on a particular skill or accomplishing a specific task. Having objectives can provide a sense of purpose and motivation. But be flexible.  So if something isn’t working, switch to something else that is easier for your horse to accomplish.
2. Vary your activities: Incorporate a variety of exercises and activities into your rides. This can include transitions, lateral movements, jumping, trail riding, or trying different equestrian disciplines. Mixing things up keeps both you and your horse mentally stimulated. You can also add some groundwork and relationship training before you get on your horse to ride.
3. Explore new routes: If possible, ride in different locations and explore new trails or areas. Discovering new environments can be exciting and refreshing for both you and your horse. Even exploring the same trails but going backward (from end to start) will give you a new viewpoint.
4. Challenge yourself: Continually seek opportunities to improve your riding skills. Take lessons or clinics, participate in competitions or shows, or try new training techniques. Expand your training knowledge. Working towards personal growth and development goals can help maintain your interest and engagement.
5. Ride with others: Riding alone can be fun and exciting at times, but riding with friends or joining a riding group can also make the experience more social and enjoyable. It allows for companionship, shared experiences, and the opportunity to learn from and support each other.
6. Practice mindfulness: Stay present and focused during your rides. Pay attention to your horse’s movements, body language, and subtle cues. Being fully engaged with your horse can deepen the connection and make the experience more fulfilling. Also, pay attention to your surrounding environment and enjoy the sights and sounds.
7. Listen to music or audio content: Some riders enjoy listening to music while riding. It can put you in a happy frame of mind which helps you enjoy the present moment. Just make sure to prioritize safety and remain aware of your surroundings.
8. Make the old “new”: Change up the speed, direction, and types of exercises you are doing in the arena. Ask for more “go” at a trot, ask for a slower canter, try a half-halt or a side-pass.  Add a new loop-do-loo, cut a corner, add a circle, or a backup at different places in the arena.  Make your usual exercises new and fun.
9. Travel: Travel to horse-friendly places. Find a new arena, a new trail, or somewhere else where you would enjoy riding.  When you find others to ride with, you will also find someone with a trailer (if you don’t have one) and learn about other good places to ride.
10. Let your Horse decide: Ok, this is a game changer. When you are on the trail or in the arena, let your horse decide what to do.  If he’s high energy, he may want to canter or play.  If he is low energy, he may only want to walk or just hang out with you.  Whatever it is, let your horse decide every once in a while.  Don’t force your own agenda every time you are with your horse.  Who knows, you might have some fun.

Remember, it’s important to prioritize the safety and well-being of both you and your horse.

If you’re ever feeling tired or fatigued during a ride, it’s essential to take breaks, rest, and listen to your body.

If you are thinking about work, upset, or angry then take a moment or two and calm down before you go on your ride.  You don’t want to take that negative energy to your horse and especially not on your ride.  Settle down first and enjoy the peace and tranquility that being with your horse can bring you.

If you are alert, happy, and interested in what you are doing, you will enjoy your ride more and no longer be bored.

Well, there are lots of creative things you can do to stay interested when riding. I’m sure you can think of other fun exercises you can work into your regular riding routine.

Be creative, decide what you want to do, and build your ride into a series of exercises that develop from one to the other. Challenge yourself and your horse and you will never again be bored while riding in the arena.

Those are my top 10 tips on keeping yourself interested while riding your horse beating boredom.  Next week I will give you my top tips on keeping your horse interested while you ride.

Until next week, I hope you have a great weekend and have some fun riding.  Happy Horses!

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But here is what I do in a “nutshell”:

“I teach people how to fix any issues with their horses through my specially designed relationship-based horse training”.

Now let me expand on that a bit in more general terms:

Teaching people how to fix issues with this type of horse training can be incredibly beneficial for both the horse and the owner. Building a strong, trusting, and loving relationship with a horse is essential for effective training and in resolving any and all behavioral or communication issues that are occurring now or may arise in the future.

Many of the issues that could arise in the future will simply melt away or not happen at all because of the strong connection, trust, and respect that is developed between the horse and owner while learning my heart-centered, relationship-based training.

My style of relationship-based horse training focuses on developing a strong, healthy bond with the horse, establishing clear communication, developing empathy and a heart-felt friendship, and understanding the horse’s needs and behaviors.

This approach often emphasizes positive reinforcement, patience, kindness, and consistency to encourage desired behaviors while addressing any issues.

Here are a few key principles that are often emphasized in my relationship-based horse training:

1. Trust and Respect: Building trust and respect form the foundation of a successful relationship with your horse. Earning your horse’s trust through a relationship that develops consistent handling, clear and concise communication, and positive reinforcement will help establish a strong, lifetime bond.
2. Clear Communication: Horses communicate through body language and respond well to clear and consistent cues from their handlers. Teaching owners how to effectively communicate with their horse through body language, voice commands, and subtle cues is essential for successful training. Through my relationship-based training, an owner learns how to communicate with their horse using herd dynamics and herd behaviors that their horse easily understands.
3. Positive Reinforcement: Rewarding desired behaviors with positive reinforcement, such as praise, treats, or scratches, helps to reinforce those behaviors and encourages your horse to continue performing them. This approach creates a positive learning environment and strengthens the bond between horse and handler. This also creates an enjoyable learning experience for the horse that he/she looks forward to, thereby enhancing the horse’s mental well-being.
4. Patience and Consistency: Training horses takes time, patience, love, and consistency. Teaching owners to be patient and consistent in their training approach helps their horse understand what is expected of him/her and reduces any confusion or frustration. This in turn creates a safer environment for the owner to work with their horse because without the confusion or frustration, you have a calmer, easier-to-handle horse.
5. Understanding Horse Behavior: Understanding the natural behavior and instincts of your horse is crucial for successful training. Educating owners about horse behavior, herd dynamics, and their natural instincts can help them better understand their horse’s needs and respond appropriately to any and all issues that arise.

By teaching horse owners and horse enthusiasts how to develop a strong, trusting, and loving relationship with their horse and addressing any and all issues that may arise through relationship training, creates a harmonious partnership that benefits both horse and owner.

It can also lead to improved connection, communication, cooperation, trust, and the overall well-being of the horse while enhancing the owner’s skills, safety, and enjoyment of working with their equine companion and friend.

Teaching people how to fix issues with their horses through relationship-based horse training can be incredibly valuable and rewarding for both the horse and the human. Building a strong bond and understanding between horse and owner is essential for a harmonious and safe partnership.

If you have any specific questions or topics you’d like to discuss related to relationship-based horse training, feel free to ask, and I’ll do my best to help you.

Until next week, have a great weekend, and Happy Horses!

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“What do you think the most commonly used word is, in the world?  Just one word…”

My first guess was the word “Mom”.  But nope. What would your first guess be?

Well, he told me that one of the most commonly used words in the world (English and non-English speaking) is the word “OK”.  I looked it up and the number one word is actually “Hello”, but “OK” was right behind it. 

Then he continued his story and told me that his friend had challenged him to say “OK” to everything that came up in his life over the next two weeks.  His friend told him that he had done this himself and it had changed his life forever.

So Spencer took on his friend’s challenge and said “OK” to everything that came up, within moral and legal limits of course for the next two weeks.  And he was amazed at how it changed his life too.  

He told me that the first week he did this someone brought him an opportunity and as much as he wanted to say no, he went with the challenge and said “OK”.  It pushed him past his comfort level. 

In the first week, he made $3,000 on this opportunity.  The second week he made $7,000 and then $10,000 and then $20,000.  So in the first month, he made an extra $40,000 in income.  That extra income alone changed his life.  But there was more.

He said “OK” to other things too and the challenge pushed him to do things he never would have thought of.  Things that he had to work for and had to learn more about.  

These things pushed him to see life differently and people differently.  It changed his way of looking at life and his perceptions in very positive ways.

Spencer told me that he has been doing this, saying “ok”, for an entire year now and he can’t believe how much this one little thing has changed his life for the better.  He never would have imagined that his life could change so much in one year and that all this was even possible.  

He is still doing this challenge and is very happy.

His story reminded me of the 14-day challenge that I give my students when they first start with me.  

During the 14-day challenge, I ask my students to stop everything that they are used to doing with their horse – training, trail rides, jumping, competitions, etc…  The idea behind this challenge is to start over and hit the reset button with their horse.

It’s really simple.  Just take 14 days to shift your perspective and that of your horse. 

Here’s a quick overview of what I ask my students to do during my 14-day challenge:

1. Go out and just hang out with your horse for 14 days.

          o   No training and no riding.

          o   You can groom, pet, and talk to your horse.

          o   You can walk around the pasture with your horse.

          o   You can sit in a chair and watch your horse, enjoying the outdoors.

          o   You can listen to music or read a book.

          o   You can listen to the birds, wind, trees, etc., or meditate.

2. While you are hanging out…

          o   Watch how your horse reacts to different things.

          o   Walk around and explore the pasture with your horse.

          o   Listen to your horse’s natural sounds.

          o   Watch your horse’s body language and learn from it. 

                o   Watch your horse’s ears, tail switches, and leg movements.

3. Say “OK” to your horse.

          o   Scratch him when and where your horse asks.

          o   Talk to your horse and watch his reactions.

          o   If your horse wants to go for a walk, take him/her.

          o   Let him lead you where he/she wants to go.

          o   If your horse wants to lie down or just rest, let him/her.

          o   Do what your horse wants instead of what you want.

This is just a very general overview of what I do with my students during my 14-day challenge.  But every student and horse that has done this in my “Recess with Your Horse” program has seen a change in their horse and in themselves.  It works every time. 

The transformations are beautiful!

I hope this piques your interest and you try either my 14-day “OK” challenge or my friend’s 14-day “OK” challenge.  And if you do either one, please let me know how it went.  I’d love to hear about your success.

Until next week, have a great weekend, and Happy Horses!

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I usually tell you a new story each week about my experience with horses or an issue that I had or was able to fix. But it’s not just me who has had success with the way I do things.

I get emails from readers and students often letting me know about their successes with their horses after taking one of my programs or just following my blogs. Let me share a few of them with you.

But before that let me tell you a quick story…

Just the other day I was speaking to a lady about ways to fix a behavioral issue that she’s having with her horse. It was on one of my complimentary coaching calls that I like to do with fellow horse lovers. Well, when I finished she said, “I’m sure that works for you, but will it work for me?

She explained further that she wasn’t as confident in her ability to fix the issue as I was in her. She knew if I was there with her horse, it would work and that it would work for me and any other horse. In her mind, it was because I had over 50 years of experience working with horses, but she had only a few years of experience.

So would it work for her the same as it would work for me? She wasn’t sure.

“Of course!”, I said. My programs are designed to work the same for a beginner as they are for an expert. It’s about the issue and the solution rather than how much experience you have with horses.

Each of my programs is designed to resolve a particular issue with your horse and no matter what discipline you are in or how experienced or inexperienced you are with horses; my solutions will work for you just as easily as they work for me.

I love to “push the easy button” when working with my horses and I train you to do the same thing. I want you to be able to resolve any current issues that you have with your horse as well as keep any future issues at bay.

It truly is easier than you think and I know you can do it no matter what your experience is with horses or your horse’s history.

Here are a few recent emails showing other’s successes too:

“…Remember how hard it was to move Choupette away with my hands and even with a whip? Now she is so light. I just have to move my finger or look in the direction I want her to go and she does it.

Our relationship made a 180-degree shift when I took the time to do what you had instilled in me. I’m so happy.

We hadn’t ridden in 2 months because of all the ice and snow. But when I took her out she was a perfect angel. As we were riding a running dog came by us and she did not tighten up a single muscle, spook, or bolt. She just kept going on calmly.

At the barn, Choupette is the only one out of 15 horses that comes to her owner when she sees me or when I call her. They all tell me how nice she is. If they only had known her before you. People used to tell me how dangerous she was and that I should get rid of her.

Last week 8 horses escaped twice and Choupette was the one who brought them back. What a big difference from where she started! Thank you.”

                                                                                                                                                         …Madeleine

“I took Sahara to my favorite place today. It was a glorious day and the wonderful thing was my parents met me and we all had a walk down the beach. Including Sahara who was free with just a bareback pad and halter on, but no lead rope, and she just walked right with us. Awesome. My parents were never a part of my horseback riding journey as a teenager so it was rather special. 

When they headed back to their house I continued walking with Sahara down the beach. Eventually, we came to a stream which separates the north and south part of the beach. Sahara is never very keen about going thru this stream. I had her off the lead and she walked up to the stream, drank from it, licked it, and hung around the stream looking at those on the other side of the stream but not venturing on her own accord to cross it. 

I often clip the lead rope back on and encourage her over but this time I didn’t. I walked through the stream but she didn’t follow, so I walked back and I watched her play with the driftwood near the stream, drink from the stream, etc. Then, a dog entered the water and crossed the stream so Sahara followed. It was so funny. 

I had taken Sahara’s bareback pad off earlier as she wanted to roll. I tried to put it back on her once we had crossed the stream but she started to trot off so I kept on carrying it. We came across two horseback riders who said, “There is something wrong with this picture”. I said, “I have ridden but we are just hanging out at the moment”. I said, ‘It isn’t all about the riding’.

This is interesting, people’s perspectives. Not that long ago it was my perspective, too, but I have so enjoyed these interactions we have on the ground. 

Sahara gets to smell things (shells, logs, seaweed, etc.). She has enjoyed a roll several times when I have come here to the beach. I did eventually put the saddle pad back on and ride back.

The day before I jumped on Sahara and she took me out of the paddock and up the road, then she turned around and after feeding her face with some grass, came back to the paddock entrance. Gosh, she makes me laugh.”

                                                                                                                                                                …Sarah

“I just love this! I’ve also been told about how lucky I have been with my horses… they loaded by themselves, were polite, etc.

And I think you know how much I loved them (and still love Gambler who is now 33). My new guy,

Rhett is a lot like your Merlin now that he’s been with us for a few months. He was a little head shy at first, but no more! He loves his hugs and puts his head right in his halter instead of playing “you can’t catch me” like he did.

Why don’t more people see what happens when you’re kind to horses??? It just boggles my mind!

                                                                                                                                                               …Sue

“I have been following Teddie for over a year now. We bought a hobby farm about a year and a half ago so I could have my horse at home with me. In the time I have been following Teddie I have learned how to make a real connection with my horse. 

Now he wants to be around me. Before I started following Teddie my horse was a handful. I never know when or why he was going to spook. Now he is a great trail horse. Thank you so much Teddie for all your wisdom.”

                                                                                                                                                                   …Linda

And these are just a few of the many emails I get. I am so proud of all of these ladies and how they now have the horse and the relationship of their dreams. I’m glad I could be a part of their success.

So when you think that you’re not experienced enough to fix an issue, that you need someone else to do it for you, or even that you’ve tried everything but nothing has worked, then look into one of my programs for help.

Here’s a link to a video where I talk about the journey these ladies have been on…

Until next week, have a great weekend, and Happy Horses!

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