Have you ever wanted a big horse smooch, only to be turned down? Well, now you can teach your lovable horse friend to kiss on cue. I apologize for the lack of pictures, because I don't have a camera. So I hope my steps are good enough!
Step 1
Grab some treats (carrot pieces work well) and head to the barn.
Step 2
Bring your horse somewhere that he/she won't be distracted.
Step 3
Start by showing her a treat but don't let her have it.(You want your horse to know that you have treats.)
Step 4
Take 1 carrot out of your pocket. Place it in your right hand.
Step 5
Stand in front of your horse, facing her. Bring your right hand up to beside your cheek (you should have a carrot in this hand).
Step 6
Lean forward while saying "kiss". Let your horse see and smell the treat, the horse should reach forward to take the treat. Before the horse gets the treat make a kiss sound to show the horse that the trick is over. Your horse may be a spectacle, so if they look like they want to come forward but are afraid, you should lean forward more and offer the treat again. The horse will take it...eventually.
Step 7
After your horse gets used to touching your cheek start to move the treat away (hold it closer to your hip). If your horse doesn't go for the treat move it up again. Remember practice makes perfect.
Step 8
After practicing every night for 2 weeks your horse should kiss you as soon as you lean forward. Perfect! The cue for the 'kiss' is you leaning forward and the verbal command of "kiss".
Step 9
Feel proud that you and your horse can now perform a 'trick'.
Tips
- If you cut 2 good sized carrots into slices(about 1/2 centimeters) it will give you enough for 1 training session.
- In the first stages of training you may have to lean forward a lot to get your horse to notice you.
- An old horse may not learn as fast but don't be discouraged, be patient. Your horse will learn over time.
- A horse with a small attention span will have to be held during the first steps of the "kiss", or they are likely to wander off.
- Almost any treat is fine, though you should not use anything with too much sugar, because over time your horse will be eating a lot of treats so you want to make sure that they are healthy. Carrots, apples, and sometimes bread rolled into balls will work. If you find you're really stuck for treats make some! There is a great recipe on wikiHow for horse cookies. (click on the link)
Warnings
- A frustrated horse may bite you
- If your horse is over-eager he will start to offer the kiss off cue. When he does this do not make the kiss sound and don't praise him/her. Firmly say "No".
- A horse may also nibble your finger by accident while trying to get the treat.
Things You'll Need
- A horse, pony, donkey, or mule
- Halter
- Lead
- Healthy treats
- Spare time
