How can i make my horse more livlier and more forward going?

Question

i've had my horse 8 years. but now im a more confident and experienced rider i would like him to be a bit more forward going and less like a happy hacker.

i've changed his bit which was really good until he started rearing and fighting against it and to e honest he dont need a strong bit because he got brakes and a soft mouth.

what other ways is there ?

am i just trying to make him somehting hes not?

Answer 1

you can ajust what he is eating. you can give him more energy and I think get what you are looking for. Some omalen 200 and flake or 2 of alfalfa. But follow the directions so you dont over do it and also go slow with it so a little at a time to see if he getts a little more livly. I hope i  could help

Answer 2

Hello,

Bits are more for controlling the movements of the horse, not making them livelier.  Just to listen better.

If you want to make your horse have more energy add grain to his diet.

Hope this helps!

Answer 3

What does he eat?  Grain that has a higher protein count gives them more energy : )

By this I mean replacing the grain with a different protein percentage, not feeding more of the same!

Answer 4

Has he always been quiet? If he has, thats just his disposition...you can try an energy supplement like Red Cell or Ultra Fire. Upping his grain is not advisable if he is allready in good weight, its more risk for gastric ulcers and other issues. And secondly, as far as a bit, if he started rearing after the change, one of two things, that bit is WAY to strong or you are very rough with your hands, a horse will not rearing and fighting a bit unless he or she is fairly uncomfortable. If you are exsperienced enough with a steady leg you could wear small spurs, better yet just carry a crop so that you have it when needed, upping bit power will do the opposite of what you want.

Answer 5

you need to push him forward off your leg! if you want him to be lively and more forward you need to make him more forward! you have to change the way you ride to, he is prob reering from the new bit because you are on his mouth to much and not pushing him of your leg into a frame, instead you are just grabbing and its making him mad. if he has a good mouth then put him back in his happy snaffle and just push him forward. it takes a while for them once they have been taught that its ok to be  lazy so dont get frustrated.

Answer 6

Keep your leg on him and when he responds by going faster, lighten the pressure so that he understands that is what you want.   Use a crop if you need to as well.  Make sure you aren't limiting him with a cruel bit and strong, insensitive hands as well.    Reward him for doing what you want him too and keep his pace motivated by riding him and not just sitting there clucking and kicking.  Collect him and push him forward with your aids.  Use your seat, hands, legs, and voice to keep him going.  And keep his work varied and interesting so he doesn't get bored!!!  Good luck!

Answer 7

Diet is one way forward, oats oats oats! this is what alot of high exercise yards feed.  However be careful as these hot horses up and it could be a case of "hold on tight!"

Why don't you have some lessons on him? it might just be that he has become dead to your leg and some reschooling is just in order?

Try some work without stirrups to improve your seat and leg aids.  A better/deeper seat will mean you can push him on with greater effect

Swap his bit back, something like a nice snaffle is all you need in a soft mouth or maybe even a happy mouth bit (synthetic) if it's really soft.  If you keep the harsh bit in you'll deaden his mouth if it's already soft.