Have you ever wished you could change your horse's attitude? Do you want your horse to be a more willing partner?
The most important thing to remember is that changing my horse's attitude begins with ME. If I can change my attitude toward the horse, relax, and find some things to be positive about, THEN I can help my horse change.
When your horse has built up a history of unpleasant behaviors, it's natural to start to anticipate all the things that could go wrong. But in order to help your horse change those patterns, you have to start giving the horse some trust and allowing him the opportunity to choose a different response. One practical way to start to overcome this is by looking for things you like about the horse (even if it's just his color!).
Be in the habit of looking for reasons to reward the horse, rather than reasons to correct him. It is critical to release and reward the horse when he is trying. Work through moments of agitation by finding a good place to release, then quit. Don't get into a fight over it, because that will just increase the agitation.
If you are consistent in your approach, and you put these tips to practice, you're sure to see an attitude change in your horse and have a more harmonious outcome.
Until next time, may God bless the trails you ride!
- Ken McNabb