Rewarding Horses

From Mugwump:
http://mugwumpchronicles.blogspot.com/2008/06/rewards.html

When I start a horse the first thing I set up is a reward system.To my mind, the horse doesn't really care if I pet it or praise it. Horses spend their life looking for the big four, none of which have anything to do with me. I like to pet horses, but that's for my benefit, not theirs.To them, a reward is to leave them be.When I step to them, that creates pressure.When I step away, it relieves pressure. Stepping away is a reward.The first time I saddle I step to them with the pad, then away with the pad when they tolerate it.So the reward is to have the pressure of me and the pad taken away.And so on.The horse learns that if it does what I ask, I'll relieve their pressure.After the first ride I step off and loosen the cinch, then I put them up. The reward is the release of the cinch, and quitting for the day.In the beginning I release them by putting them up for every positive step they take.They really start looking for that positive step.As I get farther along I increase what I ask for.I want more and more from them before I give them the big release.In the middle they get small rewards for being good.After each properly executed maneuver I let them stand for a few minutes on a loose rein.All my horses will stand rock still with the reins hanging after the first 10 rides or so. They know if they are quiet I'll let them stand. If they move I don't pull them down, we just go back to work. With enthusiasm.I rest them often.I try to make a clear decision with each horse, for each ride. I will either ride them past their comfort zone, and deal with the fall out, or I'll quit before they get to the point of arguing with me.If a horse starts to fade or misbehave because I've pushed them, I make them mind, and we work until I have their focus again. Then I quit.This builds a try into them that's really satisfying.If I have to ask for more, they'll always give it.Not because they love me.Not because I give them carrots.Because they trust me.They trust my consistency.They trust my leadership.They know for a fact that if they try, I will get off, and leave them be.I'll let them continue their equine quest for the big four.