The atmosphere at horse shows can be a lot for a horse. Traveling, other horses, separation from their normal herd, new sounds and sights, lots of activity, loudspeakers, golf carts, bikes, tractors, water trucks, are just a few of the things that are commonplace on the show grounds. For many horses these are things they never see on a regular basis. Some horses can take everything in stride and not get anxious about all this new stuff. Some lose their minds.

In training young horses it is very important to provide good positive experiences. It takes time to teach a horse how to be a good citizen, confident in themselves and how to handle new experiences. One of the best ways to start this process is to bring your horse to shows as a noncompete. Some owners feel that this is not a good way to spend their money. In the long run this is one of the most valuable ways to help your horse be exposed to so many things in the least stressful way possible. They get the time to hang out and learn about the atmosphere without the added stress of having to compete. They stay overnight and get to hear and see all manner of things. Spend time walking them around. Lots of grazing and watching. You will be able to ride or work with them at a time when things are quiet and not have to ride at a busy time just because that is when your class goes. Find an out of the way area to do your first rides. The horse has plenty of time to get comfortable in the environment and realize it's not so scary. Show them ALL the things. The sand hitting the fence, banners, garbage cans, porty potty doors slamming, jump cups moving, jumps falling down, water trucks, tractors, cars, trailers, other horses lunging, crowded schooling areas, everything! This may take several shows for some horses. At hunter jumper shows you will be able to school around some courses on Tuesday or in the mornings and get valuable experience and training on what their job is.

It takes time to teach a horse how to be a show horse. Hanging out at shows until the atmosphere is no big deal is important. Only when they are relaxed can they be receptive to training and learning the skills required to be a winner.