My thoroughbred gelding wont neck rein at all. ive tried many different techniques but still noting. HELP!?

Question

My thoroughbred gelding wont neck rein at all. ive tried many different techniques but still noting. HELP!?

Answer 1

The only thing you can do is keep working with him.  you can't just ask him to neck rein without any other aids and expect it to work because he doesn't understand what you want.  As you walk on the rail, at every turn use your inside rein to direct rein him so he turns the corner and then use your outside rein against his neck.  it will take a lot of repitition, but eventually you should be able to use less inside rein and more neck rein and eventually all neck rein.  Also try using your legs to cue him around the corners as you direct rein so that you can use your legs to help him as you neck rein.  You could also get someone to walk next to him as you neck rein him...  have them turn at the same time you ask your horse to turn and he should follow their movements and listen to your neck rein cues.  Try to make sure your body is helping him instead of impeding him...  like when you want him to turn, turn your body to face the new direction... if your body stays straight, so will your horse.  None of these things alone will work...  you're going to have to try all of these things together and it's going to take a while.  I taught my thoroughbred mare to neck rein, but it took about 2 months before i could put her in a western bridle with confidence that she'd do what I wanted.  Just keep working...  he'll get it eventually.  And make sure you reward him every time he does something well... they like that :o)  Good luck!