Manouvering gates

[SPSP]

Does anyone have any techniques for opening and closing gates whilst out hacking? We have quite a few near us and I hate having to keep getting off to get through them. G will not stand at a gate though... He gets really tense and doesn't understand what I'm asking him to do... I'm not sure he's been asking to stand for a gate been opened and closed before. Any ideas?

 

[Nudibranch]

To be honest, repeated practise is the only way really. I am currently getting my new one used to them; being an ex racer I don't think he'd ever done one in his life when he arrived. He also didn't know anything about waiting! As he's new to it I've started a very basic technique with him which is basically

Go up to the gate until his chest/neck is touching it next to the catch
Wait a little (just for manners and patience)
Step back/forward with the gate once I've opened it
Go through once it is wide enough
Turn a small circle and close the gate again

Eventually I'll move onto turn on the forehand, etc, but he's not ready for that yet. My old CB was an absolute pro, she practically opened them by herself! But it really is just practise. Can you do some at home? Get him used to just standing next to them, it really doesn't take that long.

I do carry a schooling whip which is a very useful tool - turn it round and the grip end will push things quite effectively.

 

[SPSP]

Thanks, Nudibranch! Schooling whip idea is excellent- I think G gets a bit claustrophobic when pressed up next to a gate so will probably be helpful to him if he doesn't have to get so close- thanks again, great idea!

 

[gunnergundog]

A hunting whip is even better as the hard crook end enables you lift gates that may be less than perfectly hung!

Working on turn on the forehand, rein back and turn on the haunches in the school, plus any other moves like leg yielding, that improve manouevrability will help as will having a steady friend to stay by his side whilst practising and/or observing a master at work!

 

[Orangehorse]

A hunting whip or a suitable old walking stick cut down is very, very useful. After that it is training and patience and lots of praise. It really is worth spending the time to teach you horse to do gates well. I did really well with one horse, who became perfect, but with this one he had one bang and that has made him just a bit difficult, but I can still do most gates from his back.