Training a horse to bow

Understanding the mind of a horse and the way they think is pretty amazing, and try to see through their eye. Actually, this massive animal has a very small brain, and has to be trained, or taught, how to do what you ask of them. Their only way of life is to eat and run; no pun intended, and that is it.

We all heard the cliché, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks”, and that really applies with the equine world. From birth, they are taught everything, either by their mother or the owner, which instills a memory in their brain. A horse may learn a specific lesson, from repetitive training, and then put out in the pasture for 5 years. After bringing in the horse and to command that lesson, which was taught years ago, they may resist at first, but eventually they will remember. That is the great thing about horses; once they are taught they never really forget. They just have to be reminded.

Teaching a horse to bow is such a challenge, but when accomplished, the result is rewarding. This training consists of repetition and patience, which is the most important for any trainer. Without patience, you will have a bad ending result, and you never want to end on a bad note. Always keep in mind that they are like a child learning how to walk. You guide and protect them every step of the way, and never rush your teachings.

To teach a horse to bow, just place your massive beast against any type of structure that will not give away: barn, fence, garage. I find it easier to use a western saddle for the use of the horn, and you will need a short whip or crop. Have your horse stand against the structure facing the direction that best suits you. Take the rein that is closest to the wall and wrap it around the horn of the saddle. With the other rein, bring it down through their front legs and have it in your hand to pull their head downward. Start tapping on their outside leg; the one closest to you, until they move that leg up. No matter how they move their leg, stop tapping. That is letting them know a cue, which is what this training is all about. Your cues are what is going to make them do exactly what you ask of them. Repeat this pattern until they pick up their leg to the height you want. At this point, start pulling on the rein that is in your hand at the same time you are tapping at their leg. This will bring their head down, and they will start to lean back on their hindquarters. This will teach your equine student to lower their front end, and to think they are going to lie down.

This takes a lot of practice, but the result is worth the wait.