How can I get him to listen?

M

MaisieMcPherson92

Active Member
Joined
4 June 2014
Messages
37
Visit site
I've had to do a little bit of lunging recently to bring my horse back into work but I am finding it difficult to get him to concentrate.

If he's not dragging his nose across the ground, he's staring at something in the distance more interesting than myself.

He's quite lazy so I'm having to get really animated to get movement from him.

Does anyone have any advice how to get him moving forward and listening to me?

Thanks :)
 
I've only owned him for a few weeks and we've mainly just done ridden work.

He's still quite young and can be cheeky so I don't know if it's more of a respect/naughtiness thing
 
If he knows how to be lunged properly, then I'd keep the sessions short and interesting. Lots of transitions, if he doesnt trot when you ask him to, ask him to walk and ask again until he's more attentive etc. Don't let him just amble round :)
 
How do you know? Have you seen him lunged properly? What you are describing sounds to me like typical youngster who hasn't a clue what exactly he is supposed to be doing.
 
Thanks Yak.

My YO has lunged him too, he goes well sometimes but just seems to get bored and start acting up.

Was really looking for tips on how to keep him focused and interested, I'll try the transitions and see how we get on :)

Thanks again
 
Agree with lots of transitions. My guy was a total numpty on the lunge but I did a couple lessons how to lunge with my RI which helped a lot.

I do stuff like have markers and will ask him to walk or trot etc at certain ones and like walk for 5 strides, trot a couple circles, walk for 5, trot etc.

Got him more voice reactive and listening.

He still tries it on from time to time as he is a cheeky boy!

Have you tried free schooling too? As can be fun and good bonding
 
You could always try placing a few poles down so he has to pay attention to where he's putting his feet too. My horse is similar, I have to keep him on the ball and thinking, otherwise he plays up. Let us know how he goes :)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top