Bonding with my pony?

[Belleoftheball]

Ive had him for about 3/4 months and until a few weeks ago he had fine stable manners and he came over to me in the field but the other week i pulled some hair off between his front two legs which had some mud on it and since then he spins around when i try to groom him (he is tied up) and makes me come and get him in the field. How can i earn his trust again?

 

[webble]

Lots of in hand and ground exercises. Spend time grooming him so he enjoys it and you again

 

[Shay]

Don't necessarily blame yourself. There could be other reasons for his behaviour which you might overlook if you focus more on pulling the mud off. Webble is right about spending time with him, grooming etc. But also think if there could be something else too. Is there hay in the field he would prefer to eat? Is the gateway muddy and he would rather not step in it? Is a field mate bullying him? Is he pushing someone else about (other than you I mean!) Are you acting more timid around him making him think there is something to fear? Has he just reached the "new pony horrors" point and wants to test you? There are all sorts of other possibles too.