How to get a horse to go turn and stop

by Phil
(Unionville tennessee)

I have a horse that I don't think was broke right and was abused by the first owner ,she had a T-post run into her chest by him jumping her off into the river close to where I live. I have tried to get her to ride but she gives me an attitude about going and turning and basically everything but as long as she is being ridden with other horses she will do pretty good. How do I get her to respond to commands to go ,turn and stop? I think she would make a great horse for my wife and kids but I'm scared to let them on her because of her attitude.
Thanks and I wait your reply





Hi Phil,

Your thoughts regarding this horse not being "broke right" and "being abused" is the reason for her "attitude". The definition of "attitude" under these circumstances means she "doesn't know" what's being asked of her, not because she is being bad. If she doesn't respond to commands such as go, turn and stop then it's fair to say she was never taught them. So you will need to learn how to teach them to her. It's not like there is a magic pill I can give you, what is needed is an understanding of how horse's learn through the methods of pressure and release and positive reinforcement. Take some time and read the pages offered in this website they will explain these methods and guide you.

All the basics you need to teach this horse are all first accomplished from the ground. The reason this horse seems to do better with other horses is because she trusts the other horse's decisions and has learned to follow them for comfort. She does this out of fear and confusion.

It's always safer and more prudent to never assume or expect any horse to just know how to do something. It's up to us to "teach" it to them. It is never the responsibility of the horse to just know.

Elaine