In this final short episode on target training I delve a little deeper into how and when I use targets in my training.

Questions? Comments? Drop me a message or email [email protected]

The third (hop back and listen to the first two if you haven't yet) in the clicker training targets mini series.

In this one I discuss when I use targets in my training from cognitive enrichment to training movement.

If you want to learn how to train in this way then join me on my accredited professional trainer course in 2025 ⁠https://courses.understandhorses.com/courses/horse-trainer-foundation-certificate⁠

Drop me any questions [email protected]

The second (hop back and listen to the first if you haven't yet) in the clicker training targets mini series.

In this one I discuss planning and setting up the behaviour- essential for all training.

If you want to learn how to train in this way then join me on my accredited professional trainer course in 2025 https://courses.understandhorses.com/courses/horse-trainer-foundation-certificate

Drop me any questions [email protected]

My Understand Horses Trainer's course https://courses.understandhorses.com/courses/horse-trainer-foundation-certificate

My IAABC Foundation course https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/equine-discomfort-ethogram/

My IAABC Foundation Journal article on targets

https://journal.iaabcfoundation.org/target-training-for-horses-hit-or-miss/

In this episode I talk to Chess about her journey with Gambit her young Exmoor pony. I met them when she needed help with his behaviour and the two have been a real joy to work with.

My new accredited trainer course is now live at Understand Horses

https://courses.understandhorses.com/courses/horse-trainer-foundation-certificate

Check out my IAABC Foundation course here https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/equine-cooperative-care/

It will come as no big surprise that intentionally combining positive and negative reinforcement isn't something I'm huge on. I was surprised to hear experts/academics lack of understanding regarding things like shaping and backchaining and reducing reinforcement without frustration.

It's a bit ranty :)

As a young horse trainer I was very aware of creating situations where the horse could 'guess' the behaviour- we called it anticipation. Back in those days I didn't know about using reward based training but anticipation was a great way to create a willing and enthusiastic horse. Sadly some of the old ways haven't been passed on- in some cases that's a good thing, in others I think it means we lose a little of the common horse sense.

Join me in considering how we can motivate horses and be better trainers.