How do I Train a Horse Like Pat Parelli?

Pat Parelli's training methods could prove to be the most effective way to train your horse. This well-known horse trainer believes that in order to train a horse successfully you must ensure that it remains comfortable. If the horse is not comfortable, training will take more time or the horse may not respond at all. This philosophy of comfort leading to learning is behind all of Pat Parelli's techniques; one of the many basic exercises that illustrate his method include basic groundwork on a lead rope which helps your horse grow accustomed and comfortable with your movements around it.

Things You'll Need

  • Lead
  • Wand
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your hand on the lead of the horse. This is the initial phase of befriending the horse, and it will brace the horse for your touch without you actually making contact yet.

    • 2

      Move your hands around the horse's body. Rub the shoulders and the neck of the horse too. The horse will start to get used to your touch. Stay clear of sensitive areas like ears until the horse is completely comfortable with your hands.

    • 3

      Touch the more sensitive areas of the horse's body like the ears when the horse sees you as familiar. The horse may initially balk at this phase, however it is important not to yield to the horse because when it gets used to this touch it means it is utterly comfortable with your touch.

    • 4

      Introduce a foreign object. Once the horse becomes used to your hand, you can introduce an object, like a wand or a rope and repeat the entire technique. This will prepare the horse for the type of equipment it will face if a rider is on it.