Merely making a horse obey your commands and do something does not mean that you know how to control a horse. Remember the times when someone would put a chain lead shank under the horse’s nose. They can be successful in taking the horse from point A to point B, but using a shank is a giveaway and it does not mean that you know how to control the horse. If you are actually in control, then you will never need this coercive equipment.
Hitting the horse with a buggy whip also does not mean controlling; you are just hurting the animal to act the way you want them to. Here are some simple steps that will teach you how to a control horse in the proper way.
- If your horse starts acting up while riding, you will have to relax. Horses tend to sense the nervousness and tension and this automatically affects their performance. Even if you are tensed or nervous you must never let the horse know it.
- You must check your riding position as well. If you are clenching your heels to the horse, then this will cause the horse to go faster. If you are yanking or holding the reins of the horse too tightly, this will confuse the horse and agitate the horse as well. If you are doing anything of this, then you will have to correct your position.
- If your horse is still jumpy, then you will have to ride the horse in a tight circle or a figure eight will work as well. You will have to show the horse that you are the boss, but remember that you must never haul on his head. If you are going riding in a group, you will have to get the permission of the instructor to ride the horse in the complete arena for one minute. This will help you in getting your horse back in control.
- Think about the various reasons as to why your horse is misbehaving. Is it storming outside? Is there a loud noise nearby? Is there another horse crowding your horse?
- Check the horse track as well; if you notice any defects on the track then you will have to replace it. Make sure that you have checked the horse saddle and there are no sharp objects embedded or rough edges on the saddle.
- You can consider the girth can be rubbing, you can use a different type girth and check if the behavior changes. If the horse is wearing a breast collar, then check if it is its too tight or too loose and rubbing against the body of the horse. Ideally, the breast collar should be put in such a way that you can fit four fingers under the collar. See if the bit is pinching near the mouth or is too strong for the horse.
- You can change the way of controlling the horse as well. Always remember that every horse will have a different behavior. If you are used to riding a horse, which needs strong cues for controlling, then you have got in the habit of kicking the horse to speed him up. In such a situation, you must consider that a different horse will not need such a strong kick. You must always use softer aids and never pull hard near the mouth.
- Take off the double bridle, spurs or crop before you use them. These things can scare the horse, annoy him or he may simply dislike it. The horse will never need artificial aids.
- If the bad behavior of your horse continues, then you will have to consult a veterinarian. Maybe the horse is suffering from a sore back or physical problems, especially if this kind of behavior is out of character for him.
- If you get out of control with the horse, then you must spin the horse in tight circles. Do not panic, you will just have to make sure that all your actions are perfectly clear to the horse and whatever the horse is doing will not get him anywhere.
Tips and Warnings:
- Always try to give your horse something than your usual behavior. For instance, if your horse is thinking about spooking, then you must squeeze hard with the help your legs and command the horse “forward”.
- If you are scared of getting hurt then you can switch horses, use stirrups, or wear a helmet. Whenever you are riding a horse, you must always wear boots. Gloves are also a good idea, because they will give you a better grip on the reins.
- Some of the horses will respond even when there is no aid. You will just have to shift your weight and take your hands forward and check if the horse responds.
- Sometimes the problem can be that you are moving against the horse and not along with him. Whenever you are riding, you must sway the horse.
- Most of the times the horse tends to disrespect you, because they don’t know you. Take some time out sit with the horse and pat him, feed the horse some carrots and groom him as well. Get used to the horse and make a stronger bond.
- Never get angry at the horse, because anger will always lead to more problems.
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