08/13/2026
One of the most effective methods of training a horse to do all sorts of things is the PUTTER system.
To “putter” means to sort of slowly and unconcernedly mess about, with a tiny time agenda.
Horses get confused about things like what is happening in this photo, and in order for the horse to be super chill, the rider has to be super chill.
The horse moves the wrong way? No big deal.
The horse backs up when it should stand still? No big deal.
The horse wants to get quick? No big deal.
Putter, putter, putter. Sooner or later she’ll figure out what I want, and she’ll be a Steady Eddie about it if I haven’t given her any reason to be worried or upset.
Two opposite “P” words, to PRESS or to PUTTER. Putter beats press every time.