Re-Establish The "Boss Mare" Attitude!

     
If your horse is between you and the gate, do you walk around him or do you expect him to move out of your way as you approach?

Use your body language to move your horse. If he ignores you, be quick to correct it! (But be a Kind Boss!).

With your halter and lead rope on, lead rope in the left hand, approach his left rump. Don't pull on the lead. Walk up like he's not there. Walk up at an even speed and "kiss" as you approach. ( You are telling him "I want you to move something..") Do not hesitate - he's reading your body language! If you have any "doubts", So Will He, and he won't move! Do not second guess yourself. Make him move! If he hesitates at all - with the lead, with a crop, touch him from nose to hip to get him to move the hip over. Now I did not say beat on him.. You are simply trying to "start his engine" with a kiss; look directly at the part you want him to move and walk/tap - - make him move.

Regarding body language: Always remember - if you are mad when you are working with your horse, chances are your horse is just as mad as you are - if not more so - and he weighs more. Walk away, cool off, go back to training. You can't win against them and you don't want them to know it!!

Happy Trails Folks