Problem behaviours are probably the most common reason people start using positive reinforcement. Whether it’s hoof lifting, injections, vet visits, loading, spooking, bolting…. you name it.

CT is so effective at problem solving because we look at the emotions causing the behaviour and address it from there, rather than simply trying to force the end goal. This means no fighting, fear or force. Instead, we change how the horse feels to change their behaviour. A horse who is relaxed, calm and motivated will do the ‘thing’ happily.

In fact, something I love so much about this training is that a) the process itself is really enjoyable and builds your relationship together AS you’re solving the problem, and b) that the end result is often a horse who LOVES the behaviour they previously found so challenging. Not just that they’ll do it, but it often becomes one of their favourite things to do. This is amazing to see!

If you’re looking to CT to address a specific problem, one common question is whether you can use it JUST to fix that problem. You might have many other things going well already that you want to continue with and/or not want to add rewards into other areas of your horse’s training yet. And yes, that’s absolutely fine! I give you some tips about how best to this in the videos below.

Ok, let’s dive into some training tips on solving problems with CT!