Tip of the Week: Week 2

By Alison Ritchie

How to...

11 January 2010 17:28

Problem: My horse won’t lead back from the field – what can I do? She just digs her heels in even if I tempt her with food.

Advice: This sounds like a bit of naughtiness. In circumstances like these you need to out-think your horse.

Firstly – do you just bring your horse in from the field just to work? If so, that may be causing her stubborn streak. Try to bring her in (when you can!) for grooming, feeding and bonding sessions too.

Next – try to analyse your leading technique. Look at how you lead up and down the yard and in and out the stable. Are there times when she is happy to lead and are you doing anything differently on those occasions? For you, it would be a good idea to always lead in a bridle with a whip in your hand to coak her along – at least until she becomes better mannered. Never get in front of your mare and always encourage her to walk briskly forward. Most important of all, always reward her the instant she is doing well – a food treat and/or praise should do the trick.

Do you know how to long-rein? If not, find an experienced person who can help you. You can then long-rein your mare around the yard and in and out of the field gateway.

It sounds like this is a bit of a bad habit she has got into. Get an experienced person to help you lead her through the gateway a few times and it may help to break it. Remember to be very patient and always reward positive progress.

Alison Ritchie BHSI instuctor