Although the behavior you describe is characteristic of high-spirited Thoroughbreds, this is behavior that you need to get under control for your safety and that of the horse. Answering questions like these without observation is difficult, but you may benefit from watching the Young Horse Management Series we provide via video from eXtension:
http://www.extension.org/pages/Young_Horse_Management_Series.
This series contains ground-handling techniques and the use of a "war bridle" that takes a lariat (rope) to make a halter and the handler uses the remainder of the rope to lead the horse. You will also find other valuable videos at:
http://www.extension.org/pages/Fundamental Training for Horse and Rider.
We hope that this training will give you more ways to cope with and train your horse to become more cooperative and enjoyable.
