Rearing problem
Today’s horse training question comes from Billie: “It’s been awhile but, I was recently given a very sweet 4 year old gelding. The previous owner recomended using a martingale or tie down because he has been known to rear up some. I have been riding him and have not had this problem but since we are still getting to know each other I have not pushed him. I do know you are supposed to circle them in case they do. What do you think would be best?”
Hi Billie, You are right, it is effective to turn your horse in a tight circle if he tries to rear up. In addition, I would teach your horse a cue to put his head down when you touch the rein, so that if you feel he is going to rear up you can ask him to lower his head, which should avoid the problem altogether. To teach a head down cue from the rein, you can start either on the ground or in the saddle. If your horse does tend to rear up you might be safer to start on the ground. Put pressure on one rein (not both) and just hold it gently. You are waiting for your horse to lower his head, even a fraction of an inch. As soon as he does, release the rein and pet him. Repeat this process (it will take many, many repetitions!), asking your horse to put his head down a little further each time. I like to teach my horses this until I can get them to drop their nose all the way to the ground. If you start teaching it on the ground, just use a hand position that will be similar to where you’ll be holding the reins when you are in the saddle, so you can transfer the exercise easily when you start to use it riding. Thank you for your horse training question!
