Training question?

Question

I have a 6 yr old appendix hunter gelding, had him since a weanling. Did great training during his youth, started riding at 2 1/2, perfect angel, easiest horse I ever trained. Showed at 2' starting at age 3, showed him for about a year, then stuff came up and I had no time for him, so I turned him out in a field for a year. About a year ago, I started workinf with him again only to find that his work ethic was gone. He's great to pleasure ride on the flat but his hind end gets a little light when jumping. He has always bucked for his lead changes, which I ignored cuz I figured he was young and would eventually outgrow it, and I was just happy he was getting his changes. Now he's 6 and the bucking is driving me nuts. I've had him looked at, there is nothing wrong with him, it just seems to be an attitude issue. He is far from overworked, is very well cared for, and he could be REALLY nice, but I really wish I could get him to quit with the kicking out and bouncing. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

When a horse has so much time off, he has to be re-started because he's just been playing horse with no work.  It's good you had him checked by the vet but have you considered "saddle fit" or issues with his teeth?  Could be something to consider.  A friend of mine had a horse that would buck around when she asked for the canter.  She took the saddle off, put on a bareback pad, and he cantered beautifully without any objection.  It was the saddle.  Otherwise, it may just take time and patience to help him get through this.  If he is acting up under saddle - get off - do some ground work with him - refine his manners.  Don't "get after him" because he won't understand that.  He will interpret it as punishment and the bad situation you have now will get worse and he will grow to resent you and will want to avoid you  in every way.  Be safe so that neither of you get hurt.  Attitude is really about respect and you need to earn your horse's respect so he will be happy in his work.

Answer 2

Break everything down as if you were just starting him....keep it overly simple...not the least demanding...if you want a lead change, either stop an pick up the other lead or drop to a trot and pick up the lead that you want.  Something is either pissing him off or hurting him, there shouldn't be any other reason why he doesn't want to comply..

Answer 3

he has became lazy and just like re train him it might take some time but he will become good

Answer 4

First, i would have him checked out by a Chiropractor, sometimes vets dont catch back problems, and I've have two horses that bucked after fences due to back problems. Sometimes just an edjustment works wonders.

Once you've ruled out all medical problems, which is sounds like you pretty much have, get a stick, take a deep breath, and prepare.

The only way I know of getting a horse to stop bucking is to pull that head up (HARD), give a good kick, and a swat. Yes, I know...you might get thrown, but it's just a matter of showing him it's not play time.

After a few good thwomps and a few smacks, he should get it.

Sounds like a nice horse, good luck!

Answer 5

He has become lazy over the year. you'll have to train him all over again. ooo nvm didnt read hole thing. probly just a habit