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How can I teach my 10-year-old horse to slow down and listen to me without me having to pull hard on her mouth?

Last Updated: July 22, 2006

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There are probably as many answers to your question as the number of people you ask, so obviously there are many approaches to take to resolve this problem. But realize that there probably is not a "quick fix." Some factors that will influence what you may want to do and how long it will take depend on your level of skill and confidence and the facilities you have. I am a firm believer that a horse is much more responsive to a rider if it is responsive to the handler on the ground. I suggest you get her to be very obedient on the ground much like you would if you wanted to show her in showmanship classes and teach her to respond to voice commands and to relax to your voice as you talk to her. Do not become frustrated as you work with her both on the ground and on her back. You must have patience. You may want to saddle her up and just sit on her, talking to her and petting her to encourage her to relax and to help her realize that there isn't necessarily anywhere to go and certainly not in a hurry. It might help if you have a round pen or a small paddock where there really isn't any place to go and that you feel safe even if she does get fast. This way you can concentrate on trying to relax her and use your body and voice to slow her down without you getting excited or worried about her. Horses read people very well, and you must remain calm. You want to use the reins as little as possible, especially if you have to "re-condition" her mouth. Accept small advances. She is not likely to change in just a few rides, but if you are paying attention, you are most likely to notice small improvements, and she should be rewarded for them. Remember, it takes time to break bad habits.

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