With all this talk about paintballing dogs and
other interventions, I have not seen a recent discussion about teaching your
horse to charge or attack the dog.
I have always trained my horses to turn towards the
attacking/barking dog and with my BIG voice, we have successfully intimidated
the animals. I will even back my horse from the area, but not "turn and
leave" as long as the dog is on the offensive.
We just took in 3 Mustangs (into our rescue) and
for the first time I have horses here who will attempt to kill or injure my
dogs. My other horses would chase, and play-strike, but there was a
lessened level of intention compared to these animals.
I'm pretty certain, baring a rider getting in the
way (poor balance, yanking on the reins), that any of these 3 small (under 14h)
horses could kill just about any dog which chose to approach.
PS - yes, my ranch dogs have had to learn to stay
out of the 2 pastures the Mustang's currently inhabit.......
Karen Everhart MEd Co-founder and Executive Director Rainbow Meadows
Rescue and Retirement, Inc. Serving the equine companions who have so loyally
served us... www.rainbowmeadowsranch.com 620-725-3402
Owner/Operator Horse Calls - Equine Management Solutions Centered Riding
Instructor Distance Horse Conditioning and Training www.horsecalls.com 316-648-5082
