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Rearing horse when trying to load Help Center
Dear Franklin
I have a 8 yo TB the off the track. The reason I am working with him is he refuses to load in a box. Rears at the sight of the box. I have now started ground work in a pen and he is reluctant t do a join up. Also refusing to backup slowly. I take lots if time with him doing this.
I think his biggest fear it that he does not trust ppl. He refuses NOT to back off when snaking the lead rein. In the end he submits by licking and chewing and bowing also relaxing his head when I am close to hm. He is very dominant but has now learnt the respect being on the lead without crowding one space whilst leading him.
I would say insecurity is his biggest problem.
I have taught him to walk behind me whilst being lead when he and he keeps his space
When he passes me I stop and make him work in little circles until he disengaged from behind.. this has proved wonders.
How do I get him to join up sooner since I do not want to overwork I in the school.
Regards, JJ
HI JJ,
Don’t expect so much. Go slower. One-step-at-a-time and reward with a break. Don’t look for him to “submit.” Consider looking for him to want to do as requested. But this takes more time and a lot of consistency. He has learned to be dominant because he has not had a good, consistent leader. Your ability to ‘lead’ each and every movement is the key. Do not miss one opportunity to lead movement. Simple movement is fine, the basics are fine. Just do it over and over and over every moment you are together. Also, set boundaries around the food bucket. He eats when you allow him to step up to the bucket. This is an excellent exercise in leadership. When he passes you, simply back him up 10-15 steps. Circles are good but take more time to provide. I don’t suggest having him walk behind you. he could run up your back if scared. I suggest you keep by his throatlatch and have him 18 inches to two feet off your shoulder. I also suggest you get very skilled at driving him forward, one-step-at-a-time and reward as this is how you will eventually want to load him. You want to ‘send’ him into the trailer and not lead him in. He needs to go in and stay in on his own. This takes time, timing, patience and skill. But you can do it. Along the way he will bond to you like Velcro. Your consequence of work for unwanted behavior is fine. Backing up firmly works good too. DOn’t be concerned if he comes over to you or not. Simply go to him and invite him to walk with you. Give a little treat when he does. Soon enough he will come to you on his own. Compassion, patience, kindness, wisdom, skill, timing and great leadership will get it done. Keep me posted please....
Sincerely, Franklin