The trainers also rely on the basic principles of operant conditioning, and apply the animal training concepts originally described by B. F. Skinner , the famous behavioral psychologist. A Guide Horse can be trained to live in an apartment, but they prefer to live outdoors when off-duty. The ideal Guide Horse owner would have a fenced back yard with a lawn for grazing. Horse are natural outdoor animals and grow a soft wooly coat each fall to protect them against the winter chill. They can be kept outdoors in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Many horses prefer to have shelter in inclement weather.
Guide Horse Training normally takes approximately 6 months to one year and involves hundreds of hours of individualized training. A young horse can start Guide Horse training after weaning, generally around six months of age. The American's with Disabilities Act guarantees the right of any service animal to use public transportation. With proper training, a Guide Horse can be trained to enter taxis, busses and subways. Part of the basic training for all Guide Horses includes elevator and escalator training.