Training Horses with Kindness
"The more you do it, the more you discover that you can develop this beautiful two-way communication with the horse." - Sandra Poppema on the evolving nature of positive reinforcement training
In our latest episode, we speak with Sandra Poppema, founder of HippoLogic and creator of The Confident Clicker Trainer method. Sandra shares her journey from traditional training to positive reinforcement, revealing how this shift transformed not just her training methods but her entire relationship with horses.
Standout Statements
"The more you do it, the more you discover that you can develop this beautiful two-way communication with the horse." - Sandra Poppema on the evolving nature of positive reinforcement training
"Put the R of relationship before the R of results. Because once you have that really good relationship, it's amazing what horses will do for you." - Sandra on prioritising connection over compliance
"They are so motivated by the food, you can simply teach them to use their lips only, not their teeth. You can teach them not to mug you or touch you or sniff your pockets." - Sandra on establishing boundaries in treat training
Horse Connection Spotlight: Finding Your Voice
Sandra shared a powerful moment when her young wild horse Kira laid down rather than respond to pressure during training. This brave act of communication from Kira became a turning point in Sandra's journey. "She didn't want to get pressure release training," Sandra told us, "And then I decided right then and there, I don't know how I have to train her all the traditional things like riding and lunging and whatnot [with pressure]. I will find a way." This commitment to honour her horse's communication led Sandra to develop innovative approaches to positive reinforcement training.
Recommended Resources
Training:
- Sandra's HippoLogic Clicker Training Academy
- YouTube: SandraHippoLogic
Practical Takeaways: Try This With Your Horse
- Start with "table manners" for your horse, teaching them that treats are available but on your terms, establishing clear boundaries around food.
- Before training, ensure your horse is well-fed so they don't experience anxiety about food, making the training session about choice rather than necessity.
- Pay close attention to what motivates your individual horse; as Sandra noted, some horses prefer hay over high-value treats when learning.
- When your horse seems reluctant, ask yourself, "Why don't they want to do this?" and use their feedback as valuable information about their preferences and concerns.
Special Offer for Our Listeners!
Sandra has generously provided a FREE Clicker Training Assessment for all Curious Equestrian listeners! During this personal 1:1 session, you'll discover your training strengths and weaknesses, helping you identify your next steps for improvement.
Book your free assessment here: https://tidycal.com/hippologic/curious-equestrian
If your part of our Inquisitive Herd (it's free!) the conversation continued with these member questions: Sandra addresses real member questions, including:
- How to approach yard owners who prohibit hand-feeding treats?
- The biggest challenges horses and owners face today
- Why the physical connection during treat-giving creates a unique bond?
- How to reframe treat-giving as "training" and "food reinforcement"
