Positive Reinforcement Horse Training: Our Reward-Based, Playful Approach
Training your horse doesn’t have to feel serious or stressful. At Horse Tricks 101, we use reward-based training — a friendly, practical approach built mostly on positive reinforcement (+R also written R+). That means giving your horse something they love when they get it right — whether that’s a treat, a scratch, or a short […]
Boost Your Horse’s Confidence with Playful Learning
Fun and play aren’t just enjoyable—they greatly improve learning and make the experience more engaging! Research shows that both humans and animals learn faster, retain information longer, and become more confident when they’re engaged in playful activities. For horses, play not only sparks curiosity but also makes them braver in unfamiliar situations. When horses approach […]
5 Signs to Skip the Saddle and Focus on Groundwork
NEVER go out for a ride if you are worried your horse might not do what you ask. You need to be sure you and your horse have an excellent connection before heading to places where you will likely meet new things and situations. Otherwise it is very unsafe for you and your horse! Here […]
15 Engaging Activities for You and Your Horse in Any Weather
Too Cold ❄️, Windy 💨, or Rainy 🌧️ to Ride? Don’t Let Bad Weather Dampen Your Spirits! Even when the weather isn’t ideal for riding, there’s a whole world of activities you can enjoy with your horse. From grooming to ground training, there are numerous ways to deepen your bond and keep your horse engaged […]
15 Fun and Interesting Groundwork Ideas for You and Your Horse
Before you go riding, spend time on your groundwork. Your rides will be safer and much more fun (for you and your horse). NEVER go out for a ride if you are worried your horse might not do what you ask. You need to be sure you and your horse have an excellent connection before […]
Does your horse come running when called?
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of your horse running to you—not because they have to, but because they want to. But it wasn’t always that way for Bella. When Bella first arrived, she was nearly impossible to catch. I’d walk into the paddock, and she’d walk away. I’d take a step closer, and she’d […]
A Very Simple Bow in Less Than 4 Minutes
A very simple bow is easy and quick to teach if your horse already knows how to target. ‘Targeting’ is to touch an object when asked. You can learn more about targeting (touch) HERE I sped this video up a little but the times are in real-time. It took less than four minutes to teach […]
[FAQ] What are the best tricks to teach my horse?
Teaching your horse tricks is a fun and rewarding way to build trust, confidence, and communication. But where should you start? With so many tricks out there, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to teach first! Whether you’re looking for fun challenges, practical skills, or confidence-boosting exercises, this guide will help you choose […]
5 Playful Challenges to Deepen Your Bond
Short, kind sessions that spark connection—and make everything else easier. These aren’t “just tricks.” Each tiny challenge teaches your horse to think, try, and enjoy working with you. The confidence and clarity you build here flow into leading, trailer loading, vet/farrier, groundwork, and rides. The goal is simple: invite a “yes” from your horse—yes to […]
25 Fun and Useful Things To Do With Your Horse At Home
Are you looking for activities you and your horse can do at home? There are lots of things you can do! Here’s a list of activities that are fun, useful, and will make your relationship even better!
21 Things You Will Discover in the Horse Tricks Club – Academy
Here are just some of the things you will discover in the HORSE TRICKS CLUB – ACADEMY. (Plus each month we add new tricks and activities!)
How To Teach Your Horse Perfect Treat Manners
Some people worry that using treats during training will cause their horse to become pushy, nippy, and turn them into a horrible food monster! Unfortunately, this is likely if your horse doesn’t learn how to behave around treats. For most horses, food is their favorite thing and they just want some… NOW! Thankfully it is […]
[FAQ] Which trick should I teach my horse first?
The best trick to teach your horse first is to ‘touch’ an object with their nose. This is a simple trick, but it is also the foundation of many other tricks like fetch, hug, and kiss. Most tricks, even the more advanced ones, can be built using a few foundation movements.
Increase Your Horse’s Attention By Defining Your Training Sessions
If you want to teach your horse lots of tricks you need to clearly define the start and end of your training sessions. Your horse needs to know when you are about to start teaching them something new and to give you their total attention. To signal to my horses that I am in training […]