Weanling Behavioral Modification

Utilizing the principles of natural behavior, human-horse interaction, body position and body language, students will explore and apply the introductory concepts of modifying equine behavior in the young horse to better fit human ideology of what today’s horse represents whether it be for work, pleasure, or companionship.  All horses in today’s society should be able to calmly and respectfully accomplish basic tasks, such as respecting individual space, bathing, grooming, foot care, leading, tying, and trailering. All of these principles are the building blocks to a solid training program their 2 year old year.

Course Objectives

• Stress Safe Horse Handling Skills.
• Introduce basic training principles and practices to develop a calm, well mannered horse.
• Introduce various training styles and ethics including the use of restraint and disciplinary actions.
• Provide an in-depth study of equine behaviors, body postures, and herd social structure and its relationship to behavioral modification.
• Discuss differences in training programs between weanlings versus yearlings.
• Provide hands-on application of discussed topics relating to behavioral modification.