The Problem Horse- Why only containing unwanted behavior does not work

 

The Problem Horse...

Resistant
Dangerous
Aggressive
Reactive
Spooky
High Energy
Bolting
Bucking
Kicking
Biting
Hard Keeper

Every single "issue" above is a symptom and not the actual problem.

But we often get distracted and don't believe the horse's initially reasonable, subtle ways of conveying he is fearful, insecure, defensive, and so we add more pressure, equipment, severe training methods to "make him comply."

Until "all of a sudden" one day he seemingly becomes Dangerous.

Humans rarely acknowledge or take a moment to step back and assess all the potential ways their communication with the horse has continuously taught the animal to be defensive and distrustful. Then they get upset when the horse can no longer comply.

It should not be seen as "normal" for the horse to display any of the behaviors above.

Quality Horsemanship is a skill that must be learned, practiced, and refined- continuously.

Understanding horse behavior is a skill. As is being able to adapt at the moment to help the individualized horse.

Following some random pre-designed "Horsemanship" step 1, 2, 3 "program" or method doesn't mean there's clarity or quality in the interaction.

If you don't understand how to translate the horse's unwanted behaviors breaking them down to discover the source(s) of his concern, how could you help him work through them?