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AtEquiEdge Behavior Support, we provide expert guidance on equine behavior and nutrition. Based in Warrensburg, Missouri, our services include personalized nutrition plans for high-performance horses and behavior modification strategies to address unwanted habits. Gain a deeper understanding of your horse's behavior and unlock their full potential.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common behavior problems horse owners face?
Horse behavior issues can range from mildly annoying to potentially dangerous, especially if not addressed early. Some of the most common are:
- Pushiness – Crowding humans, especially during feeding or leading.
- Kicking – A defensive or territorial reaction, sometimes due to pain or fear.
- Difficult to Catch – Can stem from mistrust, past negative experiences, or boredom.
- Spooking – Sudden fear reaction to perceived threats (real or imagined).
- Hard to Load in Trailer – Fear, poor handling, or past trauma.
- Dragging or Bolting on Lead – Poor respect for boundaries or fear-driven escape behavior.
How can understanding a horse's diet improve its behavior?
Understanding a horse’s diet can dramatically improve behavior—because what they eat doesn’t just affect their body, it affects their brain, mood, and energy levels, too.
What's one simple behavior modification tip that owners can try today?
Use Positive Reinforcement with a "Reward Marker"
How to try it:
- Pick a reward marker word like “Good” or use a clicker.
- When your horse does something right—even a tiny try—immediately say the word (or click) and give a treat or a scratch in a favorite spot.
- Repeat to build an association: “When I do X, good things happen.”
Why it works:
- It builds trust and clarity.
- It encourages the horse to offer good behavior, not just avoid bad behavior.
- It works well even with shy, anxious, or pushy horses.
Try it today: Next time your horse stands still for grooming, picking feet, or being caught—mark and reward it!
What's a common myth about horse behavior that you want to debunk?
"Punishment will fix bad behavior."
❌ Myth: A quick smack or shout teaches them not to do it again.
✅ Truth: Punishment often creates fear or confusion. Training works best with timing, feel, and positive reinforcement.
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Unlock your horse's full potential with our expert behavior modification tips and tricks! Contact us today for a consultation and discover how we can help you gain a deeper understanding of what your horse's behavior is indicating. Limited spots available—reach out now to secure your session!