If there is one breed of horse known for having a good disposition towards training it is the Quarter Horse. No matter what discipline they are being used for, the versatile breed seems to enjoy the intellectual challenge of learning. Many assert the Quarter Horse's strong affinity for pleasing its owner is what makes training easiest of all. The Quarter Horse is often seen in a number of different equine activities, from Western pleasure riding to eventing to racing. Each requires a special level of training specific to the activity. Those who intend to train their horse for such activities should be well versed in not only horse training but the sport as well.
Although they are of one breed, it is the personality of a Quarter Horse that can have a great effect on its performance. While one does well in barrel racing, another may be more apt for trail riding. A good trainer will know the difference and not insist a horse take up an activity it is not cut out for. A bored horse or a horse that does not enjoy its training can lead to negative behaviors. Just the same, a good trainer will notice the strengths of a horse and introduce them to activities where their abilities can be adequately utilized. In the long run, this leads to a happier horse, a happier rider and a much better horse ownership experience altogether.
Proper training is what keeps both the rider and the Quarter Horse safe. Working together with patience and consistency, the horse and its rider can develop a communication that allows them to accomplish a number of goals. This falls upon the rider to understand equine behavior. As horses do not verbally communicate as humans do, the rider will need to learn to communicate using such things as hands, feet and legs. There are a number of books, tips, article and videos that show different methods for training horses. While some opt for the tired and true methods others opt to have their horse trained by a professional. This is especially true if there seems to be a certain area of training that has hit a snag.
Those who are new to horses would do well to have an experienced trainer on hand to help them learn the basics. Once these basics are learned, an individual can move on to teaching tricks such as nodding yes or no and other fun things. Training is what allows a rider and his or her mount to interact and learn each other's cues; something that leads to a stronger bond. All horses must be trained in order to prepare them for riding, requiring the establishment of trust. As a herd animal, they are always expecting someone to be in the lead and if that role is not established by the rider, the horse will take it for its own. This can lead to future training problems. When training is well established, it is important to keep a Quarter Horse physically and mentally fit by introducing the horse to new learning.
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