New horse walking backwards

[cazzaroogie]

Hiya I have recently got a new horse about 2 weeks ago and needs a lot of work as is an ex racer. However we have been getting on well on the lunge and I have ridden him a few times. But he has now started walking backwards when i get on he does not want to go forwards his ears go back and he starts to go backwards. Eventually i can get him to walk on but then he does it again, last night i rode him for 30 mins and of that 15 was without him trying to stop and go backwards. Any suggestions? I dont use a whip or spurs on him should I give him a smack with a whip when he wont go or try the nicely nicely approach i have been using!!!

 

[Darkly_Dreaming_Dex]

Check saddle, back and teeth first

 

[Mrs_Wishkabibble]

Most of the time these ex racers need to see a Chiro. I agree with Land_girl get his back, teeth and saddle checked.
The one I have bought recently had never had his teeth done, they were in a right state and the dentist was suprised that he let anybody put a bit in his mouth. His pelvis was slightly out and his back was sore. I have all these things looked at and have a new saddle for him too.
When you get on do you allow him to walk a few strides forward as most exracers are not taught to stand still, they just walk off.
I would try the nice techniques first and get everything checked out. It would be unfair on him to make him work when he was trying to tell you that maybe something hurts.

 

[kanter]

ditto all above, I would also check that the girth is comfortable - they often walk backwards if a bit girthy , and he may be used to webbing / elasticated girths. Also make sure he is not girthed up too tightly and walk a circle after tightening it before getting on.

 

[viewfromahill]

Sorry while I agree that yes you should always get teeth/back checked I think this sounds like an animal that has settled in affter moving home and realised he can do his own thing and probably needs a short sharp lesson before the problem gets worse....