Positive Reinforcement Training for Horses

Positive Reinforcement Training for Horses

Curious about positive reinforcement for horses and wondering what this training method can do for you and your horse? 

Keep reading to learn what positive reinforcement really is and what you can teach your horse with reward-based training. 

What Is Positive Reinforcement?

Positive reinforcement is reward-based learning. This means you give your horse a tangible reward after they do something you want. 

Positive reinforcement, or R+, is different from most horse training methods because you reward your horse's good behavior with something they enjoy, instead of teaching by applying and removing pressure. 

Clicker training is an example of positive reinforcement. The “click” signals when the horse did something right, and a treat is on the way. 

Positive reinforcement really works, and it's enjoyable for both you and your horse. 

Does Positive Reinforcement Work for Horses?

Positive reinforcement for horses doesn't just work – it works great. Many equestrians turn to positive reinforcement after other training methods don't work or the results don't last. 

You can use reward-based training to help any horse learn in a safe and effective way. Start a young horse from the ground up, or retrain an older horse and watch them light up with new interest and enthusiasm. Improve your horse's ground manners or ridden behaviors – whether you compete, ride with friends, or care for non-ridden equines.

You can train animals through many learning methods. They can all work, but positive reinforcement is usually the smoothest and most effective way to train. 

R+ involves more communication between you and your horse, and may not be as fast as a quick fix session that uses pressure or punishment. 

But in return, you’ll get strong behaviors that don’t need constant correction, and a happier, more willing horse.

No!  Manners and safe handling are important for all horses. Positive reinforcement does involve using food, but that doesn’t mean your horse will be muggy or food-aggressive. 

Good positive reinforcement training starts with teaching your horse how to earn their rewards and take them calmly, setting both of you up for success. 

Once the horse learns the ropes, they want to be well-behaved! You’re likely to see improvements in your horse’s attitude when you begin using R+.

Positive reinforcement for horses isn’t the same as giving your horse cookies during training. Just like other horse training methods, it takes skill and there can be a learning curve. 

R+ is a different way to train, and doing it correctly is crucial for good results. That’s what this page is for! Keep scrolling for why you should try it again, and resources to help.

Benefits of Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement training for horses is good for them – and for your relationship. By using more positive reinforcement with your horse, you'll develop a bond that's based less on force, “discipline,” or compliance and more on communication and cooperation. 

If that sounds a little fluffy, there are lots of benefits of R+ horse training beyond a happier horse:

  • A more motivated, willing horse who tries hard on their own, without needing reminders
  • A safer horse with more predictable behavior
  • Behavior change that's proven to last longer than behaviors corrected through punishment
  • Better communication with your horse
  • Fast, clear learning with less trial-and-error (from you and your horse!)
  • Reliable results with the most challenging behaviors, like aggression and phobias

When you begin to use positive reinforcement horse training, you'll need to use other methods less: less punishment, pressure, and force. No matter what breed or discipline you ride, you and your horse will enjoy better results with less frustration and headache. 

What Can You Train?

The best part positive reinforcement for horses is how versatile it is. No matter what your horse needs to learn, you can use this method to achieve strong and humane results. 

Tap each section for more info on how positive reinforcement enables you to train your horse in a way that works for both of you.

Care and Handling

Use R+ to train for good manners, easy catching and haltering, safe grooming and farrier care, and more.

Riding and Exercise

Train for frustration-free tacking and mounting, more energy under saddle, better brakes, and cooperative exercising like voluntary lunging.

Veterinary and Farrier

Use R+ to train for safe, smooth vet exams and farrier visits. Voluntary hoof trimming, calm injections, cooperative deworming, and more are possible with positive reinforcement.

Problem Behaviors

Positive reinforcement addresses the most challenging issues, where other methods fail or make the problem worse: fear, trauma, aggression, and anxiety.

Getting Started with Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement for horses, such as clicker training, is easy and fun. There are a few important steps to take before you trot out to the paddock with your treat pouch, though! 

It's best to do a little research before you begin. Free courses or videos from qualified, reputable positive reinforcement horse trainers can show you what's possible and give you tips on getting started. 

Books on positive reinforcement are a great resource. A book puts all the information in your hands at once, and covering the basics before you begin is the best way to avoid a learning curve or beginner mistakes.  Don't Shoot the Dog is an inexpensive and easy intro to reward-based training. Connection Training takes a deeper dive into positive reinforcement horse training and is a great resource. 

Should You Get a Trainer?

A positive reinforcement trainer or behavior consultant is a good investment, especially if you're facing behavioral challenges or are new to reward-based training. 

A professional trainer can work on your horse's behavior or training struggles, or give you lessons on using R+ in your daily routine. A consultant or trainer is a must-have if:

  • Your horse needs help with significant behavior problems
  • You're new to positive reinforcement, such as clicker training

When you hire a qualified trainer, your investment goes toward faster and more effective training from a professional – reducing your learning curve and giving you solutions curated for you and your horse. They'll give you quality, science-based information about your horse's learning and behavior, and provide clear and attainable goals and methods for you to succeed.

Many R+ trainers offer virtual services in order to help you even if you live in an area without a large positive reinforcement community. Virtual consultations give you more convenience and customization, including ongoing support, so that you and your horse can benefit from positive reinforcement even if you have a hectic schedule.

It's important to hire a reputable, well-qualified trainer. If your goal is to train your horse with positive reinforcement, ask the consultant what methods they use and whether they also train with pressure and punishment. The IAABC is a great resource for high-caliber horse behavior consultants worldwide.