Lazy horse help

[midnight2025]

My horse has got very lazy over the last month. She won’t listen to my lag or my crop any suggestions.

 

[Pinkvboots]

Could be a number of reasons, it could be the heat most horses tend to get slower and more quiet in the summer, is the horse over weight? Could be a pain issue or a schooling issue?

Has the horses management changed or anything changed recently?

 

[splashgirl45]

you would be best to speak to your trainer for advice

 

[ownedbyaconnie]

Speak to your trainer but it’s been so warm so maybe some electrolytes could help?

 

[Apercrumbie]

Low-grade laminitis? Easy to miss.

 

[MiJodsR2BlinkinTite]

My old boy (cob) used to metamorphosise during the summer months into his "nice horse" phase where he was in dope-on-a-rope mode; then change back into normal quirky-as-a-box-of-frogs mode during the winter! I used to worry about it, till I realised it was just him.

The other thing, as others have said, could be the weather and or maybe she's carrying a bit of extra weight?

 

[AmyMay]

Is your horse still overweight?

 

[Arzada]

Did you move yards or are you still at the yard with little turnout and a YM feeding your horse against your wishes?

 

[midnight2025]

Yes I have moved yard She is slightly overweight but has lost a lot of weight. I don’t think it pain related because she is completely sound. I think it just behavior.

 

[AmyMay]

And what do you mainly do with her, hacking or schooling?

 

[midnight2025]

And what do you mainly do with her, hacking or schooling?

I do schooling, jumping and the odd hack.

 

[AmyMay]

I’d get out hacking more then. This should perk her up and give her a break from the monotony of school work. Find somewhere where you can get some good canters (and faster) in too.

 

[SpringArising]

Most horses become a bit lethargic in hot weather just as we do. I know that mine is also looking/feeling a bit bloated from the grass too. I tend to knock schooling/jumping on the head for the most part in the hot weather and hack instead.

 

[Apercrumbie]

Yes I have moved yard She is slightly overweight but has lost a lot of weight. I don’t think it pain related because she is completely sound. I think it just behavior.

If she is bilaterally lame then it can be really hard to spot - low grade lami will often affect both or even all 4 hooves. If she is still overweight I really wouldn't rule it out and would get a vet or farrier to have a look.