04/01/2023
//Training Tip Tuesday- Target Training//
Target training is another specialised area of secondary reinforcement where the horse learns to not only touch the target but to follow it. Target training therefore can be used very successfully to train horses to load into the trailer or truck, and the advantage of this is that the low arousal levels can be maintained as it is comparatively less stressful than many aversive methods. Furthermore, using positive reinforcement inside the horse trailer can make the horse trailer a desirable place to be for the horse. Target training is also used in some species where any body part such as a leg is reinforced for touching the target. For example, with elephants, target training can be used to train them to lift a leg and hold it still for veterinary attention.
Recent studies have demonstrated that horses showing strong separation anxiety when taken to the stable away from their herd mates in the field, can be target trained to diminish separation anxiety. Horses are progressively target trained to be further away from their herd mates, and over a few training sessions, all the way through to the stable area. These studies show that at least in those moments with the target, formerly stressed horses are now much calmer when led to the stable. One would expect that if this were repeated often enough, calmness would become a habit in the stabling area.
This is an excerpt from our latest textbook, 'Modern Horse Training: Equitation Science Principles & Practice, Volume 1', now available to purchase from our website: https://esi-education.com/shop/
