Backing an older horse...nipping when lent over....

[Claude]

Just after some advice please. Am currently breaking an 8 year old. He has been untouched at a stud all his life. Lunges nicely now. Walks out nicely in hand. Have tried leaning over him and he turns round and tries to nip. He will try to nip the person holding him or the person leaning over his back and is very quick at doing it! Any advice as to what to do in this situation? His back is not sore, this has been checked. It appears as though he just does not want anyone doing this to him!

 

[Claude]

Anyone, please?

 

[Toast]

My appy used to do this, was he gelded late after being at stud? Some who got into the habit as stallions will never get rid of it. But if not, id get your handler to give him a firm bash on the nose when he does this.

 

[be positive]

I would just suggest that you have a better person holding him that can prevent him from nipping. If he is quick they need to be quicker.
At his age he is going to be more opinionated in some ways than a younger horse so possibly think outside the box a bit more, try using a different place, a new bit that will give him something to concentrate on, or loose side reins so he cannot turn round.

 

[Littlelegs]

If he's generally a dominant sort I'd be establishing good manners in all situations before you lean over again, assume he is happy with roller etc on his back? Then just hold the opposite rein at a length that prevents him biting so its you as well as the handler who are re-inforcing nipping isn't on.