You can overdo things trying to get your horse to stand at the
mounting block. This little filly has ants in her pants around the
mounting block and no amount of discipline is going to make her stand.
Rather than make it a big deal I simply use it for more than just
mounting before I ride.
Continue reading "Standing to Mount: Gradual Progress" »
This is the same little filly I worked on with backing straight
on the ground in a previous video. She is becoming more respectful and
beginning to get her balance pretty well.
Continue reading "Backing Straight Under Saddle" »
It is extremely important to have your young horse straight and
balanced at the mounting block. By taking the time to reinforce the
herd rules your horse will be prepared and willing to stand and wait
for you,
Continue reading "Preparing the horse to mount III" »
You would want your horse to stand quietly and soften to you on both the left and right side before you attempt to mount her. If your horse is braced her feet will move when you ask for the softening.
Continue reading "Preparing your horse to mount, I" »
You want your horse to stay with you when you are working around her. That way she will know if you are asking her to do something or just making some adjustments to your tack.
Continue reading "Preparing your horse to mount, II" »
Teaching your driving horse simple voice commands and learning
how to present those commands clearly makes for a much safer drive.
Continue reading "Simple voice commands" »
The third herd rule is "move when I say move" which also means
"wait until I say move" Whether trying to mount a riding horse or climb
aboard your carriage, having a horse that waits until you ask her to
walk off is much safer and more enjoyable to be around. Note I stop
her, then throw her slack.
Continue reading "The importance of Whoa" »
It is important to allow the young horse to move forward freely
so that she can feel you preparing her for the change of direction.
Notice I start on the left rein and I am bumping the right rein to
maintain impulsion. As I prepare to change direction I allow my left
rein to slide through my hand as I say "hello" on the right rein. As I
begin begin traveling to the right I am bumping my left rein to keep
her out on the circle.
Continue reading "Introducing changes of direction" »