Training the Head Shy Horse

Do you have one of those horses that throw up its head or flinches away when you touch its face? This annoying habit can be trained away in a few easy sessions.

Prior to any training session be sure you have a ground safe horse. This means that the horse respects your personal space, does not try to bite, strike, or kick. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes to protect your feet, and always be aware of your horse's body language. If the horse exhibits any dangerous behaviors such as striking, kicking, biting, or pushing you with its body; consult a training professional because the horse is not ground safe. Put safely first!

To train away the head shy problem requires patience and diligence. The problem was not created overnight and will require several training sessions to fix.

Equipment needed:
Halter 
Lead rope (6-8 ft)
Patience
Time (be dedicated in spending whatever amount of time necessary to make progress)

Training Session #1

Halter your horse and attach the lead rope. Take the horse to a quiet training area where there will not be a lot of distractions. Be sure there are no obstructions that could cause an unsafe situation. The ideal training area is a small arena or round pen, but these are not critical. Hold the lead rope in one hand.

Stand to the side of your horse near his head or neck. Do not stand directly in front of your horse. Put your arm about shoulder high, bent at the elbow, palm out like you are going to push something. Push your hand toward the horses head but do not touch him. If the horse flinches back DO NOT STOP, but keep up the pushing motion. If the horse backs up, just move with him, keeping the same safe distance. The moment the horse stops reacting, stop the pushing movement. Repeat this exercise until the horse no longer reacts to your arm motions.

Switch sides and repeat the exercise on the opposite side.

Training Session #2

Run through all of the training session #1, working through any problem areas prior to training session #2. Heed all safety measures of previous exercises.