Clicker Horse Training
Clicker horse training uses the principles of operand conditioning to train horses. A conditioned re-enforcer, which in this case is a “click”, is used in conjunction with a primary re-enforcer (something the horse values, such as food) to re-enforce behaviors that you want your horse to exhibit.
The trainer marks the correct behaviors using the clicker and then gives the horse the treat to help the horse identify correct behaviors. Clicker training is very interactive and it encourages both the horse and trainer to be actively involved. This helps build a positive relationship between trainer and horse.
Clicker training is used to train dolphins for aquarium shows, to teach dogs to become more agile, and to train many animals at zoos. When you use this method of training and you begin to see results, it can be very fascinating. Although horses can also be trained with clickers, the process is a little different than that used to train other animals.
The reason it is different for horses is that horses are not usually required to do complicated maneuvers without a human being close by. Most of the time, all horse training and performance is done in close contact with humans. So the question arises, why train horses with a clicker in the first place?
Why Horses Are Trained With A Clicker
A clicker training program is very flexible. Trainers simply add treats and clicks to their existing training methods. This way, the lessons become clearer for your horse and she better understands what you want her to do. This makes training much easier and more complicated behaviors can be built in smaller steps.
Clicker training also allows you to teach complex behaviors to your horse, which normally not be possible without the accuracy of treats and clicks.
This program is perfect for coaching liberty work or any horse behavior horse where physical contact is not required, either through physical contact or horse training equipment. A clicker training program increases the confidence level of your horse and can also bring positive changes to their attitude. When this training is done properly you can help your horse overcome emotional difficulties ranging from fear to aggression.
There are three types of clicker horse training. First, the free shaping method. Using this method you would wait for your horse to perform a behavior that you want and then you ‘click’ and give them a treat. This increases the likelihood that your horse will perform the same behavior in the future.
The second method is called molding. In this method you physically place the horse in the desired position. This works with horses that do not present any behavior problems and are very calm. For example, if you wanted your horse to put its foot on a mat, you would physically put their foot on the mat for them. Once you have placed her foot on the mat, you would ‘click’ and give a treat.
The last method is called clicker training. With this method you use the same aids as in normal horse training, but you do not have to apply any pressure to get the desired response.
The last method allows the trainer to use similar training aids, which requires you to get in touch with the horse without adding any pressure to obtain the preferred response. This is similar to natural horse training.
These methods are great ways to teach your horse to be responsive without needing to pressure your horse in ways that make either you or your horse uncomfortable or cause your horse to react negatively. Of the three clicker horse training methods, the one you choose will depend on your training philosophy and the temperament of the horse you are training.
Amanda Spring recommends the Horse Training Secrets Revealed course to anyone who wants to learn more about clicker horse training and other effective training methods. This course has helped thousands become better horse owners and trainers — check it out right now.
