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Many horse people love to bring their dogs in the stable. We love dogs almost as much as we love horses. We have put together a small guide on how you can bring dogs in the stable in a safe way. So that it is good experience for both dogs and horses.
Unfortunately, it does happen from time to time that a dog is stepped on or kicked, and this should of course be avoided. In order to do that, there are a number of precautions you can take when your horse and dog need to get to know each other.
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Horses and dogs have vastly different body languages. Therefore, always observe your horse and your dog when they are near each other and read their signals. How does the horse react to a strange and different animal? And how does the dog react?
If the horse puts its ears back and lifts its hind leg to show that it is bothered by the dog's presence. You should probably consider whether it is too close. On the other hand, the dogs in the stable must not show signs of aggression or playfulness around the horse. It is important that they have respect for the large, heavy animal and stays at a proper distance.
The first time you bring your dogs in the stable it is important that both the dog and the horse have the opportunity to slowly check each other out. Keep the dog on a leash and, for example, let it see the horse for the first time while the horse is being walked around the riding arena. Because the horse is a large animal, both humans and dogs can be easily injured if the horse reacts inappropriately.
In addition, some dog breeds would like to shepherd. Their instincts may well be tricked by the horses running around in the field.
Before taking the dogs into the stable, it is important that they know how to pay attention to you. This also means, that you should not bring a very young puppy into the stable. The puppy can scare the horses with its fast moves and childlike manners.
If you still want to bring your puppy with you or if you simply have to, you should keep it at a safe distance from the horses.
And then of course you have to be absolutely sure that your dog responds to your commands - before you let it run around in the stable. Bring lots of treats – that gives you the upper hand.
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The path to most dogs' hearts goes through the stomach. Also when you have to train them to be able to go the stable. Make sure it is a good experience for the dog by rewarding the positive things it does. For example, practice calling in the field when the horses are inside. You can also activate it by making a track with treats. It is also a good idea to train it to stay inside a stall. Maybe while you are just picking up something, or bringing the horses in from the field.
Last but not least. It is worth paying attention to whether the dog has a liking for the freshly made road apples. Just as there may be dogs who love munching on hoof remnants from the blacksmith's work or chewing on a peeled chestnut. Road apples in particular are bad for your dog during periods when your horse has been dewormed. Hoof remnants can give the dog an upset stomach or get stuck in its esophagus.
