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Positive Reinforcement (R+) Horse Training in Practice: Evaluation of Online Trailer-Training Demonstrations
Helena G Harris1, Sue M McDonnell2
1Animal Welfare and Behavior Graduate Program, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, PA 19348, USA.
Animals : an Open Access Journal From MDPI
|June 12, 2026
Summary
Positive reinforcement (R+) is an effective horse training method, but many trainers misunderstand its application. A review of online demonstrations revealed that not all trainers accurately portray the primary use of R+ in horse training.
Area of Science:
- Equine behavior and training science.
- Animal welfare and learning theory.
Background:
- Positive reinforcement (R+) is recognized as an effective and welfare-friendly horse training technique.
- However, a gap exists in the understanding and consistent application of R+ among horse trainers, even those who publicly advocate for it.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the extent to which positive reinforcement (R+) is primarily utilized in online horse trailer-training demonstrations.
- To evaluate the discrepancy between claimed use and actual application of R+ in horse training resources.
Main Methods:
- A content analysis of 20 online trailer-training demonstrations was conducted.
- Trainer actions were categorized as positive reinforcement (R+), negative reinforcement (R-), positive punishment (P+), or negative punishment (P-).
- The percentage of R+ actions was correlated with observed positive behavioral responses from the horses.
Main Results:
- Only 40% (8 out of 20) of demonstrations exclusively used R+; three more used primarily R+ (>90%).
- Seven demonstrations used a mix of R+ and R- (55-80% R+), while two used little R+ (16-23%).
- A strong positive association was found between the percentage of R+ actions and positive horse behavior (r² = 0.90, p < 0.0001).
Conclusions:
- Online demonstrations of R+ for horse training do not consistently reflect the primary use of this method.
- The study highlights a need for clearer education and accurate representation of R+ in equine training resources.
- Accurate application of R+ is strongly linked to positive outcomes in horse behavior during training.
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