The #1 Step
- Adele Shaw
- Jun 23, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 7

Build a foundation of trust and cooperation.
When I start working with horses my first and foremost goal is to build trust and cooperation. If I don’t have that, I don’t have anything.
It really doesn’t matter too much what exactly we train first (though my go to is training standing with me calmly), but how the horse feels about the training.
If I have to trap, pressure, push, or pull the horse into what I’m wanting... I’m building a foundation of distrust through coercion. Even if it’s done very gently and slowly.
If the horse can not leave, they do not have a choice. They are not cooperating, but rather complying. Compliance does not = trust, compliance = obedience. Cooperation does however = trust, and trust results in cooperation.
Compliance is not inherently bad though.
There are times I need my horses to be compliant and I can not give them a choice, such as during an emergency. However I find that if our relationship and training foundation is based on cooperation and trust, compliance in times like these comes easily and safely. I also find there is less fallout. Unlike with horses where the training foundation is based on compliance, and there is no trust or cooperation. Oftentimes these foundations crumble when put under duress and the fallout is great.
I do not set out to achieve compliance though. Even in emergencies, if we have done the work and established a solid partnership with a trusting foundation, horses usually opt to cooperate. The goal is always cooperation.
If I have this, we can do anything and everything together. Riding, medical care, basic handling skills, trailer loading, trick training, whatever.. It all falls into place easily once we have the trust and the cooperation in place. If we don’t we are swimming upstream the whole time!
So how do I achieve this? I focus on reinforcing behaviors that build cooperation and trust.
Approaching me in the pasture? I reinforce that heavily! Standing with me off lead/halter and in an open area? Reinforce! Offers me a behavior? Reinforce! Takes food from my hand? Reinforce! Investigates something new I’m holding? Reinforce! Comes off the grass to engage in training? Reinforce!
The idea is that you’re showing the horse that it’s valuable to be with you and doing things with you, and that they are safe with you. Then we build from there.
Adele Shaw
If you’re ready to transform your horse’s behavior and build a stronger, more positive relationship with them, The Willing Equine Academy is here to help. Our courses and coaching focus on positive reinforcement techniques that get lasting results without the need for punishment or corrections. Whether you’re dealing with aggressive, dangerous, or pushy behaviors, or you just want to improve your horse’s overall well-being, the Academy offers expert guidance and a supportive community.
When you join, you’ll get access to:
Member exclusive courses to support you and your horse in the areas you need most
A thriving community of like-minded trainers and caregivers
Weekly live Q&A sessions and training livestreams
Annual virtual shows to showcase your progress
Personalized coaching to address your specific challenges
Let’s work together to create a safer, happier, and more rewarding relationship with your horse! Learn more and join us today at The Willing Equine Academy.
Your blog post is very helpful for anyone in need of quality gutter services in Fort Worth! If you're searching for gutter cleaning services Fort Worth, Emerson Gutters & Drainage offers thorough cleaning to keep your system free from debris. We also provide affordable gutter repair Fort Worth to ensure your gutters are working efficiently without breaking the bank.
For the best gutter contractors Fort Worth TX, our experienced team offers reliable services to keep your home safe from water damage. If you need gutter installation experts Fort Worth, Emerson Gutters & Drainage provides expert installation to suit your needs. For all your professional gutter services Fort Worth, we’re here to help with fast, high-quality solutions.
Your blog post is very informative, especially for anyone looking to improve air quality in Dallas! If you're in need of Dallas duct cleaning, Emerson Air Duct & Dryer Vent provides professional services to ensure your ducts are clean and your air is fresh. We also specialize in duct cleaning Dallas TX to keep your HVAC system running smoothly.
For air duct cleaning DFW, we offer expert cleaning services throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area. If you need commercial air duct cleaning Dallas TX, our team provides tailored solutions for businesses of all sizes. We also offer dryer vent repair Dallas to ensure your home’s air quality is at its best.
Your blog post is very informative for anyone in need of locksmith services in Plano! If you’re in search of a car locksmith Plano TX, Bulldog Locksmith offers fast, reliable services to get you back on the road. Our lockout service Plano TX is available 24/7, ensuring you’re never locked out for long.
If you need ignition repair Plano TX, our expert technicians can get your car’s ignition working like new. We also specialize in safe locksmith Plano TX services to keep your valuables secure. For key fob programming Plano, Bulldog Locksmith can program or replace your key fob efficiently and accurately.
Your blog post is very helpful for anyone considering demolition services! If you're looking for demolition near me prices, WG Demolition Contractors provides competitive pricing for all types of demolition services, with transparency on costs and safety requirements. We specialize in commercial demolition companies, ensuring that your commercial project is handled efficiently and safely.
If you need a demolition company Atlanta, we offer complete demolition services, whether it’s residential or commercial demolition. Our team is known for providing reliable home demolition contractors near me who deliver safe and efficient services to meet your needs.
Your blog post is a great guide for anyone planning their trip to Disneyland from LAX! If you're looking for a limo from LAX to Disneyland, Corporate Executive Transportation offers luxurious and reliable service. We also provide a convenient limo service to LAX from Orange County, making your journey to the airport seamless and stress-free.
For those traveling to Anaheim, our limo service from LAX to Anaheim ensures a comfortable ride to your destination. If you're planning a trip to Disneyland, our limo LAX to Disneyland service guarantees you’ll arrive in style. And if you're looking for a LAX to Disneyland limo experience, we’ve got you covered with top-notch vehicles and professional chauffeurs.