NAPPING Youngster

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moneypit1

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My youngster has recently started to nap when out on his own. He is getting worse to the point that yesterday he planted himself firmly and would not budge. Reason? saw something I guess. I let him look for a while, reassured him etc but he was having none of it. After 7 minutes (seemed like more) I had had enough. Tapping him did not work, so I admit to giving him a smack to which he did walk on. Lots of praise etc and then the ride is fine. This is now becoming a daily event, what on earth can I do, I feel awful having to smack him but honestly nothing else I have tried works.
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IMO you are probably doing the best thing. Years ago my first pony did this. It became a real nightmare. He would stop all the time, the only way I could get him to move was to hit him with my coat!!!! As he stopped about every 20 yds and refused to move I was forever taking my coat on and off!!! It can become a much bigger problem if you dont nip it in the bud.

Keep persisting in the way you are but I wouldnt be letting him stop for so long. I think one minute is more than enough.(Idont think I would be patient enough to allow that even!!) Being firm but kind now will pay benefits later.

Have you read the Spooking-what do you do? post that I did yesterday in new lounge. Loads of really good responses, although it did get really long. Might help you, I know its not spooking as such but one thing was clear, the horse needs to be between your leg and hand the whole time. If he is reponsive in this way he willl go forward.
Trying to maintain an outline can also help. Also try to get horse to focus more on you than the rest of the really scary world!
Another thing that came up was that you need to really know your horse. Is he genuinely frightened or taking the mickey?
Your response my need to be different in different situations.
Genuinely frightened needs reassurance. Taking the mickey- a short sharp smack.
Id definitely recommend you read the post and responses if you have time, and take what you want from it.
 
Thanks everyone, my gut feeling is that he is taking the micky. He is a very laid back type and to be honest if I just tap him he ignores it. I really have to whack him to get any response. He will do a couple of bucks then get on with the job in hand. Will read other thread and definately agree that I have to nip this in the bud.
 
Do what ever you can to get him moving.

Fix your eyes on a point you are going to and ride there! Turn him (on the spot if need be) and lots of leg/taps with whip to get moving off. REALLY kick.

Let him know he can't plant himself. As soon as he does turn and ride away.

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Get him moving from side to side or get him to back up if he will do this, so he learns that he will be punished with more work if he does not move forward when asked
 
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