Softer is Better!

Have you tried to load your horse, but unsuccessfully?

First rule of thumb is to try loading quietly first. Then gradually apply pressure to the horse. What I mean by "pressure" is something that the horse responds to but NEVER touches the horse. Yes, you can load without touching the horse!

Create pressure with things like your hand, lead rope, whip (obviously not using it on the horse). Start by waving it gently until the horse responds.

Start by applying lightly then continue stronger until the horse "gives" and moves in the direction you want...immediately stop waving....this is called the "release".

Horses are sensitive to pressure, unless given in a forceful manner. Note that by giving pressure in a forceful manner, you are only creating fear in the horse and the horse then wants to flee from the pressure by pulling back or away from it. Your horse will no longer trust which in turn makes it very difficult to load and turns it into a battle.

To learn more about the pressure and release technique, refer to a natural horsemanship website. This technique is the base for loading a horse successfully and communicating effectively with your horse.

Please reply to this post if this information helped you, I would love to hear your story and I am sure others would too!