new horse help

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xoxellaxox

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So I've had my lovely new mare a week now. When she arrived she was extreamly shy , quiet and slow lol. She has really settled in now and past two days I've started to hack her. She is very brave but at the same time extreamly forward! She keeps trying to break into a trot when I just want a walk . I feel like shes pulling my arms out with how strong she is . She is quite hard to halt as well. She wasn't like this when I tried her so I think it's because she's a bit nervous and doesn't know where she is. She's in a Fulmer bit . Has anyone got any advice to help her listen to my aids a bit more . Especially breaks and half halts!
 
Have you actually tried to let her go? I knw a ot of games ponies who will fight and fight but as soon as you give them the rein the start to listen.
 
She is probably excited about being out and about - try to relax and trust her ..daughters pony jogs for a few strides then walks when you resist the movement with your body rather than strong contact. Time and practise.
 
No not let her go yet . I had a very naughty pony who I've had a few bad falls with abd it knocked my confidence . So bit scared to let her go ! Will give it ago today though . Just need to get my confidence back !
 
Have you anyone to hack out with, even on foot? That may help to settle her.

Also when my youngster starts to jog on a hack, if it is safe, I make him circle.
 
Is it possible that you are lacking in confidence and therefore keeping too strong a hold on the reins? This will make her feel panicky and cause her to trot. I have a dopey cob that plods along as long as you let him, but he's trotted off with a very worried rider who would not let go of his mouth.

Have you tried starting with a nice, steady trot just to get everyone's nerves out of the way? Or taking her in the school first for both of you to relax? Or maybe thread your fingers through the neck strap as well to give you something to pull on without affecting her mouth.

It's also worth having some lessons to work on your half-halts so you can soften the horse's neck without loosing impulsion and without fiddling with the mouth too strongly.
 
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