You might be working with your horse and suddenly he says “no way am I doing that,” perhaps you ask again and you get an even stronger “no.” Below are some reasons why your horse might be resistant to what you’re asking him to do.
Pain
Observe your horse’s demeanor as you lead him to be saddled. Is he moving freely and easily, or is he stiff? Each day will be different so don’t assume the next day will be a repeat of the previous day.
- Indicators – walks funny or obvious lameness; refuses to do something he knows how to do; during warm up ride feels off, sluggish, or just not right.
- Causes – could be anything from an injury, soreness, tack no longer fits, dental issues, etc.
- Resolutions – determine the cause of the pain and work with your vet or other equine body professional to resolve the issue.
Fear
- Indicators – refuses to load into a trailer, refuses to go over or pass a scary obstacle, or refuses to perform an advanced maneuver.
- Causes – could be lack of confidence, and/or knowledge.
- Resolutions – build up your horse’s confidence, use baby steps to increase his confidence and get him to relax, ensure your horse has the proper knowledge and foundation before throwing in advanced maneuvers and/or speed.
Take a moment to evaluate the situation and determine the reason behind your horse’s behavior. If he’s unsure or a little nervous, take a step back and work on something he is comfortable with. This will help build his confidence. Once he’s relaxed take him back to where he got nervous and use baby steps to help him through it, only moving forward when he’s relaxed. If you horse doesn’t have the foundation to do an advanced maneuver, then you cannot expect him to be comfortable doing it. Take the proper time to educate and build his confidence so he is comfortable in the advance maneuver. If you lack confidence, then your horse will lack confidence and question his safety.
Confusion
- Indicators – your horse is not getting what you’re asking him to do, or only partially getting what you’re asking; your horse seems to be paying attention but is also concerned about what is going on outside your work area.
- Causes – your cues are inconsistent (you say go, but pull back with reins), or you and/or your horse is distracted.
- Resolutions – stop and think about what you’re doing and asking your horse to do. Get focused and break down the task into baby steps rewarding the slightest effort your horse makes.
Lack of Respect
- Indicators – your horse runs you over, your horse is pushy, your horse walks ahead of you, your horse decides what you’re doing that day, your horse behaves for the trainer but not for you.
- Causes – No clear boundary lines, you haven’t earned your horse’s respect, you’re distracted when you work with your horse (talking on the phone or with your barn friends).
- Resolutions – take the time to earn your horse’s respect. Establish clear guidelines and boundaries when working with your horse. Always be consistent with these guidelines and boundaries. Focus on your horse and he will focus on you.
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