People often say, ‘Never say never when it comes to horse training.’ ‘Oh but,’ they say, ‘If you’re having problems, maybe you’ll need to resort to other techniques.’ I beg to disagree. No matter how much trouble you’re having with a horse, here are some things that are NEVER EVER okay to do. It’s never … Read more
q: Do you have any opinions on if it’s better to turn horses out in mixed gender or single gender herds, or does it make no difference? I’ve always had geldings, but have been offered a mare, who has only ever lived with other mares. I could potentially keep her on her own (but nearby) … Read more
Q:Would you, given large enough paddocks with safe fencing, run a group of eight horses as a single herd, or split into two or three (or more) smaller groups? If you split them, would you split by age/gender or have a mixture? Tara, via email Hi Tara, From your question, I can tell you … Read more
I’ve seen many big name trainers working with horses and I don’t agree with much of what they do or what they say. I don’t agree with harassing horses with ropes and flags, or letting them buck with the saddle, or chasing them until they’re distressed. Every week I get emails from people whose horse … Read more
Question: My young mare has suddenly started being nasty to other horses (I’ve had her since a foal and she’s always been sweet natured). She is now 5. I know I can’t do anything about how she treats her paddock mates. But lately she’s started lungeing violently with her teeth bared at other horses tied … Read more
FOR YOUR HORSE’S SAKE By Neil Davies When you walk into the stable Don’t try to show who’s boss Your horse won’t understand you And he’ll be at a loss Instead, just go and rub his head Be kind, and furthermore When you walk into the stable Leave your ego at the door When you … Read more
From Sharon What do you think about using food treats as rewards while training horses. Is it effective, or does it just turn them into pushy, demanding horses? Does it encourage them to start nipping for treats, which is what we were told at pony club? Hi Sharon It is okay to use treats as … Read more
