How to teach a horse manners

[ChowChow]

My Fjord is a very cheeky chappie, he is such a fidget and seems to be getting worse!

When in hand he won't stand still, either moving from side to side, trying to rub his head on me, pushing me, biting or tossing his head around (he does this tied up as well)

I am firm with him but I feel as though I'm constantly telling him off 'no' 'stand' 'stop that'. Even if I do nothing and say nothing it makes no difference. If I repeat exercises such stand, walk on it makes no difference

 

[the watcher]

So he appears not to respect you, or your space. Is there anybody he does respect or is he like this with everybody?

 

[xnaughtybutnicex]

My horse does it to other people but not me, my mum or sister i guess just because she thinks she can get away with it.

 

[ChowChow]

With everyone including the farrier who won't tolerate nonsense

 

[the watcher]

If so far you have been punishing bad behaviour, try reversing it - masses of praise when he does do well - even if that is just standing still and tied up for a minute, and totally ignoring when he fidgets or fusses. See if being ignored has more effect than getting your attention in a negative way, whatever you do, be consistent.

 

[MooMoo]

I have a book by Kelly Marks called "perfects manners". It could be useful reading! lol.
Its got alot of groundwork stuff which might be helpful.

 

[GreatDane]

Have your tried clicker training - good at teaching respect.

 

[rss07]

I on the other hand found clicker training nearly lost me my fingers!!!!

 

[ChowChow]

I've seen someone do clicker training once. My horse is incredibly greedy so would probably do it no problem

could end up like GF though!

I remember someone gave me the Kelly Marks book a few years ago I'll see if I've still got it.

 

[blackcob]

I've just started using a clicker to train my horse on the ground and the difference has been amazing - she is a greedy mare too but I still have all my fingers

She quickly worked out that she got fed quicker if she just did as she was asked. She will now step back as many paces as I wish by just pointing at her chest and saying 'back', next step is to try and teach her to move over and sideways by pointing at her side. We're nearly there already and it's only taken a week of 5 minute sessions (and an awful lot of polos)!