Understanding the Challenges in Re-schooling Horses
When you acquire a new horse, it’s not unusual to face some bumps in the road. Often, horses are less cooperative after changing owners, which can be for several reasons. For instance, the horse could have been inaccurately described at the sale, or the new rider might not match the horse’s temperament and needs.
Dealing With Horses Bought at Sales
Horses bought at sales can sometimes come with surprises. Ideally, they would have a warranty that accurately reflects their temperament, training level, and suitability. However, it’s not always the case. It might take some time to figure out your horse’s quirks, preferences, and level of training, which could differ from what was suggested at the sale.
When a Horse Doesn’t Match a Rider
Another common issue that arises when re-schooling horses is a mismatch between the horse and the new owner. Compatibility is crucial in ensuring a strong bond and seamless communication. If the rider’s experience level, riding style, or personality isn’t ideal for the horse, this can create tension and misunderstandings, leading to a reluctant, uncooperative horse. Recognizing this mismatch early on and identifying solutions contributes significantly to successful re-schooling.
Troubleshooting Common Horse Behavior Issues
Addressing Strength and Unmanageability in Horses
A frequent concern for new riders is that their horse may be overly strong or unmanageable, veering off course or attempting to run away. In these situations, it’s essential to assess if the horse’s behavior can be corrected with targeted training and interventions.
Revisiting Fundamentals for Lasting Improvement
In most instances, it’s wise to go back to the basics when addressing horse behavior issues. By starting from square one, you can build a strong foundation and help the horse regain its trust and confidence. This process often involves re-mouthing the horse, lungeing, and long reining to nurture a well-rounded skill set.
Witnessing Transformative Behavior Changes
Horses often respond positively to this back-to-basics approach, with many making remarkable progress when their training is grounded in fundamentals. By building a strong foundation, you can address the root cause of the horse’s issues and set them on a path towards lasting improvement. This comprehensive approach paves the way for better communication between horse and rider, leading to a happier, more effective partnership.
Re-schooling Horses: The Story of Hizi
The Challenge with Hizi
A particular case comes to my mind, the story of a horse named Hizi. About four years ago, Hizi arrived at our stable because no one, including my daughter, myself, or his previous owner, could manage him. He was unresponsive and difficult to steer or control. The thought that he has ever experienced hunting was hard to believe. His new owner asked me to school him, and I noticed that Hizi was a bundle of nerves.
Initial Steps in Re-schooling
I started by lungeing Hizi three times a day, taking care of him in his box, and feeding him well, focusing on bran, boiled barley, linseed, and nuts, as well as plenty of hay. He was in poor condition, so it was crucial to help rebuild his physical health along with his training. After a couple of weeks, my daughter started riding him with me on the end of the lunge.
Progress and Setbacks
By the end of three weeks, I began riding him myself, although we kept the reins fixed. We managed to progress, with Hizi jumping on the lunge line. However, when I took him out for a ride and attempted to jump out in the field, his performance was significantly disappointing, forcing us to return to intensive schooling.
Success and Continual Progress
After dedicating time to continuous lungeing and riding, I transformed Hizi into a much more manageable horse. His training was then handed over to my daughter and his new owner, a 14-year-old boy. They continued his training, and by autumn he showed exceptional prowess in hunter trials. He began hunting lightly and turned into a delightful horse overall. Hizi was passed to another 14-year-old and has since won numerous working hunter and riding horse classes, and placed in several jumping competitions.
Re-schooling Hizi, who was already 10 years old when he arrived, has convinced me that with time and patience, even the most challenging horses can be re-schooled. It’s crucial to remember, however, that re-training a mature, troubled horse can take longer than training a young one, and there might be more setbacks along the way.
Re-Schooling Techniques: Re-Mouthing a Horse
Introduction to Re-Mouthing
Re-mouthing a horse is one technique that can be particularly useful. The process involves introducing something like a “keyed breaking bit” or a “treacle-wrapped bit” and starting again with lungeing rein exercises.
Understanding Jaw Sensitivity and Bit Positioning
Often, a horse might have areas in their mouths that are worn and insensitive due to continuous exposure to the bit. By adjusting the position of the bit to a new, less-worn area of the jaw, you may actually find that the horse responds more effectively because of the increased sensitivity. This is why an old-school technique involved using two snaffle bridles at different heights in the horse’s mouth.
Exploring Alternatives: Gag Bit or Kimblewick
Another alternative is to use a “gag” bit or a “Kimblewick”. These bits engage a different part of the horse’s mouth. While some people may be hesitant about using them, we’ve personally found them highly useful, especially with ex-racehorses. These horses are often too strong for either my daughter or me to control with a plain snaffle bit, but they respond far better to a gag bit or Kimblewick.
Frequently Asked Questions about Re-schooling Horses
Q: How long does it typically take to re-school a horse?
A: The length of time to re-school a horse can vary quite a lot. It usually depends on the horse’s past experiences, current behavior issues, and how quickly they can learn new behaviors. On average, plan on a few weeks to several months. Remember, patience is key in re-schooling horses.
Q: Are there specific breeds or ages that are easier or harder to re-school?
A: The breed doesn’t generally affect how easy or difficult it is to re-school a horse. However, age can have an impact. Younger horses often absorb new lessons more quickly, while older horses can be set in their ways. But don’t let this discourage you; older horses can still learn new tricks!
Q: Does re-schooling involve any risk to the horse?
A: If done correctly, re-schooling should pose minimal risk to the horse. In fact, it can often improve a horse’s quality of life by reducing stress-related behaviors. However, it’s important to work with an experienced trainer who knows how to handle any potential issues that might come up.
Q: Can I re-school my horse myself, or do I need a professional?
A: While it’s possible to re-school a horse yourself, it can be very beneficial to employ a professional, especially if you’re dealing with major behavioral issues. If you choose to do it yourself, make sure to do plenty of research and be prepared for it to take time, patience, and consistency.
Q: What equipment is necessary for re-schooling a horse?
A: The type of equipment needed can vary depending on the specific issues you’re trying to address. However, common items include a lunge line, a good quality bit, and a saddle that fits the horse well. Certain aids like a “keyed breaking bit” or “treacle-wrapped bit” can be beneficial for re-mouthing exercises.
Q: Are there certain signs that indicate my horse needs re-schooling?
A: If your horse is exhibiting unwanted behaviors regularly, like bucking, rearing, or not responding to commands, it might need re-schooling. However, first rule out any physical causes for these behaviors with a veterinarian, as pain can often lead to behavioral issues.
Q: What if my re-schooled horse reverts back to its old behavior?
A: Backsliding can happen during the re-schooling process. If that is the case, don’t worry. You might need to review your training techniques or consult with a professional. Consistency is very important, and sometimes, certain behaviors take longer to correct.
Q: Can re-schooling change a horse’s personality?
A: Re-schooling mostly deals with a horse’s behavior rather than their personality. The ultimate goal should be to have a happier, more content, and manageable horse. You’ll still have the same horse, just with better manners!
Q: How can I tell if the re-schooling is working?
A: Positive signs of progress might include less resistance to commands, increased cooperation during riding or handling sessions, and a reduction in problematic behaviors. Each horse is unique, so changes may appear gradually or quite abruptly. Regularly documenting your horse’s behavior can help track progress throughout the re-schooling process.
Q: What are the benefits of re-schooling a difficult horse?
A: Re-schooling a difficult horse can help them become safer and more pleasurable to handle and ride. It can often correct problematic behaviors, reducing the risk of injury to both you and the horse. Moreover, it can lead to an improved relationship and a stronger bond between you and your horse.
Q: Is there a best time of day or optimal schedule for re-schooling sessions?
A: There’s no specific time that works best for all horses. However, consistency is crucial. Try to set a routine for your horse’s schooling sessions. Pavlovian conditioning suggests that animals respond well to set schedules and routines, so consider this when planning re-schooling sessions.
Q: When should I stop the re-schooling process?
A: Re-schooling is typically an ongoing process. Once your horse becomes more responsive and cooperative, you should continue regular training to reinforce these behaviors. That being said, if you observe any signs of stress or discomfort in your horse, consult with a professional trainer or veterinarian to determine if you should alter your re-schooling approach or take a break.
