We confess. The idea of training our horses using positive reinforcement instead of the classical training using the negative reinforcement (pressure followed by the removal of pressure) is intriguing to us. Positive reinforcement means that instead of pressure you’ll reward you horse with something he perceives as a value.  Most often the reward is food. It can also be a good scratch (to make it a reward you need to know what your horse’s favorite itchy spot is).

The best example of a training method using positive reinforcement  is a Clicker Training. It’s widely used in dog training (especially agility), in marine parks or a circuses. Lately it has been becoming more popular amongst horse owners and equestrians  thanks to Shawna Karrasch – a Founder of On Target Training.

Shawna spent nearly ten years working to perfect her training skills not with horses, but in the pools at Sea World of California with killer whales, dolphins, and other marine mammals. In 1992, she was invited to attend her first Grand Prix show jumping event in Del Mar, California. As an animal trainer, Shawna was curious to learn more about how horses were trained, and was fascinated by the possibility of applying Sea World’s tried and true system to horses.

So what is On Target Training?

It is a proven equine training technique. Used by professionals and Olympic-caliber riders as well as amateur riders, this reward reinforcement training system dramatically accelerates the training process for any breed or discipline by unlocking a horse’s natural desire to perform. This results in an incredible bond between human and horse – a partnership based on success.

What do you need to start?

It’s simple:

• a small hand-held clicker which reinforces desired behavior
• a hand-held “target” for direction and focus
• a waist-mounted container of treats for reward reinforcement
• guidance;  check out her fantastic Video Blog & follow her on Facebook or get her book or a DVD
  

Stay tuned! EcoLicious Equestrian is going On Target and we’ll be sharing our adventures in our future posts.

Do you have any experience with clicker training? Would you like to give it a shot? Let us know.

Ride Green,

Team EcoLicious Equestrian
Your Horse. Your Earth. Your Choice.

Check out our full line of EcoLicious equine care & grooming products at www.ecoliciousequestrian.com

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Posted in EcoLicious Equestrian in Action | Tags: clicker, clicker training, horse, horse training, negative reinforcement, positive reinforcement, treats