Why is my Horse Mis-behaving?

If we listen to our horses - really listen, we may just hear what they are trying to tell us...

There are many reasons why a horse may mis-behave. All too often we blame the horse or just don’t know how to look for underlying reasons. We may think the horse is having a bad day. That's just an easy way out. Some horses are dis-respectful and assert themselves as the leader, which is quite natural if the handler allows it. However, there are a myriad of physical problems, that can make a horse mis-behave, buck, bolt or rear.

The saddle may not fit the horse, there may be something prickly under the saddle pad or girth (do you always check and wipe down your pad and brush the saddle and girth area of the horse?), teeth may need attention, feet could be sore, the back could be sore and many other issues....

There is a great article by John O’Leary of Horse Problems Australia, that touches on some of the problems that they come across on a daily basis. I highly recommend you have a read, as it could open your eyes to things you may not have thought about...

Why is my horse mis-behaving?

There is just as much horse sense as ever, but the horses have most of it...

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The One Rein Stop Can Save Your Butt

What is the primary method of control of direction, and speed of your horse? Unless your horse is very advanced and well trained, and in combination with leg pressure and seat the primary and certainly the back-up control is the reins.

It doesn’t matter if you ride in a halter, bitless bridle or with a bit, you are probably at least partly asking for the speed and direction of travel with your reins.

Hopefully your horse will have a very soft mouth and rein pressure only needs to be slight.
Having a good mouth on a horse is extremely important and should things get a bit exciting, a one rein stop can save you and your horse.  

The one rein stop is your emergency brake. If your horse wants to rear, bolt, buck, or shy you can gain control with a one rein stop. Have a look at this video by John O’Leary, arguably one of Australia’s better horsemen and expert at dealing with problems in horses......