Horse keeps taking off inhand

[spotty_pony2]

This is exactly how we handle all the NF youngsters from the beginning (and just because they are 13.2 don't think they can't be right tw*ts at times ) SP2 I really like your clear and detailed account of how this groundwork should be done.

Thank you, if any of it can help anyone even a little bit, I’ll be pleased!

 

[New Forests Rock]

I'm sure it will - we have youngsters in hand training sessions at our yard to get the groundwork handling established, together with in hand showing practice sessions for those who can still manage to run their ponies up - sadly I'm now down to the dreaded OAP shuffle

 

[Sadie_ludlam]

Do you have any idea why he’s doing this? He is okay in the arena. Is he looking at going to join his friends or because he knows it’s the way to the field? I’d try and get to the psychology of it first.

And adding on for the other suggestions no idea how big or strong you are but sometimes somebody bigger or stronger who is confident in horse handling can be useful just to help set the boundaries. I sometimes think someone who is tall enough to look them in the eye helps.

I think there’s 2 reasons why he does thi, 1st is when he just doesn’t want to do something for example loading or having his feet washed he will decide he’s walking off and if you try to pull him back he then just takes off, the second reason is that he’s scared if he’s seen something and spooked he will just take off , using a bridle has helped however doesn’t always work as he is a big horse and very strong as you can imagine with

 

[marmalade76]

My previous pony could be rude to lead and would take off at times, she would tow me in a bridle but one of those knotted rope halters stopped her dead (fortunately my YO had left one in the tack room). I know a lot of folks would disapprove but I found having treats in my pockets helped to keep her attention on me.