Training Tip: Whoever moves first, loses

Horses establish dominance by being able to move each other’s feet. The most dominant horse in a herd can make all the other horses move their feet forwards, backwards, left and right. Horses use that same principle when they are around us. Anytime you can move your horse’s feet forwards, backwards, left and right, you are establishing yourself as the leader and commanding his respect. Anytime the horse moves your feet, in his mind, he’s establishing himself as the leader. Remember, whoever moves first, loses. Every single time you walk around your horse to change sides you’re actually signaling to him that you are submissive to him. Instead, you should be able to change sides without having to move your feet. This might seem like a simple concept, but believe me, your horse notices every single change. Every single time you can get your horse to move his feet, you’re gaining a little bit more respect.