How to Train a Spooky and Unpredictable Horse, Part II
Vložit
- čas přidán 11. 07. 2015
- Hi, I’m Caroline Beste of the Tao of Horsemanship. This month’s Holistic Horse “Ask the Expert” Q&A is about developing a confident, brave horse, both on the ground and riding. This month’s video is a sequel to “How to Train a Spooky and Unpredictable Horse, Part I”, created in 2014.
Please click here to view Part I: • How to Train a Spooky ...
You can see in this video, Part II, a calmer, more connected and relaxed horse - on the ground. I have been working with this horse, Zor, on and off for a year now. We have been working on our liberty, lunge for self carriage, balance and collection as well as our training level in dressage and trail riding. Zor is progressing well and consistently in all areas - and, we are still struggling with his confidence and bravery when it is windy and around new things and woods.
A few months ago, beginning around May, I began pushing Zor meaning I began working him in areas that he felt more uncomfortable and unsure. As a trainer I know that in order to correctly develop a horse’s confidence and trust I must work in an environment, a.k.a “safe zone”, that they feel most comfortable in first - way before I introduce the “scary place”. I work on specific exercises in the “safe zone” that help us connect, trust, partner and of course build confidence. I will not move out of this safe zone until my horse is responsive to my subtle cues, shows total relaxation and has rhythm to his movement (3 “R’s”). When he shows up with the 3 “R’s” and in three different yet comfortable environments I will move our work together to the next and fourth area, the “scary” environment. This environment is where we are challenged the most and where he feels threatened the most, such as; woods, trails, obstacles, trailering to another farm or facility.
Why do I wait to introduce the scary place? I wait for three reasons: 1) I don’t believe in, nor practice, desensitizing; 2) young horses learn confidence and bravery from their mother’s - who don’t sack them out or desensitize them and 3) because the scary environment, like your competition or show, is a test - testing how strong your trust is, connection, confidence in you as a leader and partnership - where the willingness to try shows up.
What you will see in the beginning of this video is how I take Zor back to the scary place we worked in a year ago and show you how well he handles the woods, aka scary place. I also show you how I take things up a notch by introducing scary noises and movement. This is to further test his ability to not only think his way through his triggers but to also build more trust in me and confidence in the situation - confidence in himself to handle his emotions.
Zor and I then continue to work through the same exercises we worked on in Part I while my student makes noise and walks behind the woods. Zor can’t clearly see her yet he can hear her and catch glimpses of distant movement. This of course heightens him into a low level of adrenaline, aka self preservation mode where he displays freeze and flight patterns or coping mechanisms/behaviors.
Once I feel Zor has connected with me through our online work and is showing relaxation and rhythm in his movement, I get on and ride him. I have chosen similar riding patterns or exercises to my ground work where I ask for control over his body parts: nose, pole, shoulder, ribs and hind quarters. You can see how worried he is at first and his heightened sensory awareness makes him leery, spooky and potentially unpredictable.
During our short ride I share with you the strategies I have learned that help you not only feel safe at this stage but keep you safe. Please keep in mind that I would not be riding Zor if I didn’t see, and feel, him soften, stay connected and become relaxed in our ground work. He must show up this way at least 75% of the time in our ground work too. This consistency is what gives me confidence and tells me it’s time to ride and work through his triggers safely.
Please visit www.riderhorsemanship.com for more education materials, DVD's, clinic opportunities, training and the TAO of Horsemanship Online Foundation Course.
#equestrian #horsetraining #horses #carolinebeste #taoofhorsemanship #masterymembership #horsetrainer #holistichorsemanship #holistichorsemanship #ilovehorses #happyhorses #horsebackriding #ridinghorses #bitless #riding
I love that you ride bitless!! It is great to see a trainer that doesn't use fear and pain to accomplish their goals.
Absolutely! We need more like her! She’s an INCREDIBLE ambassador 💛
I'm going back through your old videos and feel like I've found you at the right time. I love that you can think in terms of years and not weeks in bringing a spooky horse along. I've had to resist well-meaning, subtle pressure by friends to just work through some major issues with my OTTB. I've also had trainers who expressed amazement at things like my not even trying a canter on the lunge line with my horse for a year. So I'll keep trolling for your old videos and your new courses, and also keep an eye out for clinics within striking distance. Thank you.
Good for you Kalli. I had an OTTB too. He came with more issues than I could count. We built great trust & he was the sweetest thing in the stall or field, but oh my - he was such a different horse at first, under saddle. Def. take your time & if I may add, after a good training session, take him/ her out to an area where he usually doesn't get to eat the grass.... and walk & let him graze as a treat. Super bond building. Don't do that if he is unfocused or not paying attention to you - only as a reward! Good luck, so glad you're listening to good trainers, yourself & your horse. 👏👏👏
I thank you so very much Caroline for this series. A month ago I was given a beautiful rescue mare. After 30 years away from horses, I jumped at the chance just to be near one. After a 12 hr drive, I met the beauty. Without knowing any of her history, it took us 3 hours to load her because she quivered with fear. She had been given more to be afraid of than things to feel good about. We have good days and bad days but try to end on a good note each time. Even if it's like Ground Hog day, she will learn AND remember that I'm a safe place for her to be. I had a horse fall with me 40 years ago and I still have a bit of fear of riding. Not just with her but any horse. Autumn is no where near safe enough to ride. She's not ready and I won't allow anyone on her when she spooks and diverts her attention so easily. With a horse that has had so much damage, I'm willing to be patient until she is more relaxed and does more chewing and positive body language. I agree, the body language is where it's at. She was hard broke like a bronc and when her owner had to rehome her, I can only imagine no one else knew how to handle her. She went thru the whole kill pen procedure and was thankfully rescued. I don't know how far we can go in her rehabilitation. She has spectacular blood lines I was told. Her conformation is beautiful. She is just so very fearful of everything. She's herd bound and is afraid of men. I have her to the point that she halters much easier, stands to be groomed (front feet only for now) and stands when tied. Any suggestions? I very much find your videos informative. Your technique really resonates with me. I thank you for your time. Like myself, most of us that are devoted to the safety, well being and happiness of our horse cannot afford formal training. I really appreciate you.
Sad but telling, how many animals of all types are so afraid of men. Take your time, watch as much Caroline & also the last 3 yrs. Videos from Warwick Schiller, also on CZcams. He's had a major epiphany in past 3 or 4 yrs & is very, very horse centric now. Love both of these trainers. Please DO NOT watch that guy from 'think like a horse' 😱
Thank u!!! U r very thorough and explain everything. Your actions and his actions and reactions. I really appreciate that.
I have a horse like that but it toke me a long time to get my horse like a long time and I'm still working with her and I want to thank you I have working on my horse with your video
These videos Part 1 & 2 were super helpful! Makes so much sense. Thank you!!!
I see so much of my Friesian in your horse. Thank God he has adjusted to trail riding fairly well. We do need to work on more despooking and this is good information.
This is how i training my horse is with your videos win she was a 2year old and I'm still training my horse with your videos it is helping me and my horse to be a batter rider thank you Nannette
Excellent ideas, just came off my big horse. He was going so while and the next thing I was on the ground. I will be doing some of work while my wrist heals.
I love your videos and your work. I see so many horses that are high stress and anxiety all the time so. I always try to apply your concept to keep a horse in a calm state of mind.
+Rachael Arbeit Hi Rachael and Welcome! Thanks so much!
Thank you!
Loved watching you and your spooky horse progress....it is giving me confidence in doing this with my very reactive mare. Looking forward to watching more of your videos...and practicing the Tao way of training🥰
Hi Patricia and Welcome! Thank you for sharing. Should you want to learn more about Caroline’s training, she has a large DVD selection www.taoofhorsemanship.com/shop and online training courses with lifetime access so please be sure to check them out. They offer more detail and instruction than the DVD collection. Please click here to learn more www.taoofhorsemanship.com/. If you have any additional questions please email us at support@taoofhorsemanship.com. XO, Sabrina
Hi Again! I just found Part II of your training a spooky horse and if feel it has answered all my questions. In an unknowing way I have been doing some of this i.e. - just riding the same path until he becomes comfortable and then moving to a newer area - still close but just a little different.
Amazing to watch your work.
Cheers, Natalie
+Caroline Rider (Rider Horsemanship) Hello Natalie and Welcome!
Glad to hear you found the answer(s) in my spooky horse videos. I am also available should you have questions. If the question involves a lengthy explanation I will let you know:)
I do offer long distance coaching services should you need them: www.riderhorsemanship.com/assessments-evaluations.htm
Warmly,
Caroline
Hi and greetings from Finland 🇫🇮! I bought a 6 yr old mare, aFinn horse, who is pregnant and has been raced with cart but never ridden. I’m a beginner myself so this will be very interesting and challenging. I have open stables and a lot of land to roam. I think you are the best trainer and teacher of all, I really like your philosophy over all. Watching and listening very carefully and intensely to your videos. Much love Sanna x
I'm so glad you are still working with him and I'm very sorry you got hurt, but I don't know why but I love this horse! I hope you can get him where he needs to be. He has an awesome soul
Hi Kimberly and Welcome! Zor was 5 in this video and 4 in the previous video, Part I. He is 10 now and has matured into an amazing horse! We just filmed a new video with him the other week. Here is the link czcams.com/video/swzZOSGsJ6E/video.html
Even after he is retrained, if you abuse him again he will react; he cannot repair if the abuse continues. You explain it so well. He is such a beautiful horse and you are truly an amazing trainer.
Wow, that was so helpful. Thank you for making these videos. I have a horse just like him.
Hi Angel and Welcome! Glad it was helpful!
I like your videos it is helping me I'm doing the training with my horse and my horse is a show horse but I go out on the trail and we go out on the trail Nannette
Thank you so much for this series. Im working through the EXACT same type of spookiness with my horse - he even looks like your horse! This video is a big answer to prayer because my horse and I have a great connection but his flight response is just so hyperactive. He’s been such a challenge but I love him so much and just want him to fully trust me while we are on the trails. So excited to try these exercises with him
Hi Hailey and Welcome! Great to hear! I'm so glad I could help!
I am very grateful for your knowledge and insight; it has made me a greater equestrian; my horse walked over a tarp today, having seen it on the ground for the last 3 days and watching and listening to me walking on it. I gave him an opportunity to lick it look at it, and on a loose soft lead, he just decided he would take up the invitation, because that was teh case; no pressure, just 'try' if you are ready.
There is no real need to be an expert tarp-walker, so I didn't care when he walked on it. But I was surprised that he was ready to explore it today upon invitation only.
Thank you; love your insight
Thank you so much Caroline for making these videos with Zor! I have been very frustrated lately and you and Zor have reminded me and I am ready to be patient and implement these techniques again. I have a paso fino that is very very spooky and right brained. I will continue watching your channel and look forward to watching Zors progress. Thank you!
+Jolene Redling Hi Jolene and Welcome! It does take time and skill - experience knowing what to do. There are other factors to consider too. Zor was only 4 years old in the first video. He was a very immature 4 year old who lacked courage and bravery. With an older horse it might only take a few months and with a young draft it can take a couple of years - that's just the nature of horses and Zor's nature. He is a more sensitive horse too so it makes him more reactive. He is amazingly confident today and turns 6 this month. Instead of jumping and bolting like before, he spooks in place and checks back in with me for reassurance and that's the KEY! That your relationship is always foremost when working so that you build the level of trust and leadership your horse needs.
I will post a new video of Zor sometime soon! Enjoy and I look forward to keeping in touch!
Warmly,
Caroline
+Caroline Rider (Rider Horsemanship)
Thank you- that is reassuring. I am just a "backyard" horse lover with some professional and some self taught skills and a determination to do my best for my horses. Trainers like you help a whole lot to show and explain some things. I observe here. When Nico is afraid I can forget that that's the time to get him busy not just let him watch what fears him. We will keep at it and stay positive!!
Wow! I NEEDED these videos! My horse is dangerous when he gets spooked by things.... Anything! Thank you so much. I have lots of work to do.
Hi Skylynn You are so welcome! Please email Caroline directly if you have any topics you would like her to talk about: Caroline@taoofhorsemanship.com
Sabrina
You have a beautiful horse 🐎
Thank you so much Caroline. This has helped me tremendously. I have two thoroughbreds I am working on currently with a natural horsemanship/Parelli type of approach. But I have been struggling and feeling very unsafe. And I now know how to tackle the problem. They are 16.3hh and 17hh and super jittery. One is very introverted and I have to be very attentive to when he crosses a threshold from relaxed to tense since he barely shows it, the suddenly he explodes in bucks and bolts away (I have lost a lot of skin on these hands from my rope and now know to wear gloves). They have very bad separation anxiety, barn sour and buddy sour, spooky and tendency to explode, buck, bolt but they have had a troubled past and I really want to help them build confidence and heal. Love them to bits and can't wait to employ your more specific instructions on them with the little patch of trees in their paddock that they are weary of.
Hi Carmien and Welcome! While natural horsemanship methods and techniques will help you, they will not solve the challenges you are describing. Your TB's challenges are about the mindset, not the forceful and mechanical techniques so many training methods teach. Those techniques do not get to the heart of the horse or the horse's mind - the secrets to trust and cooperation, true-partnership.
We believe in a holistic approach to horsemanship, providing expert knowledge and instruction for the whole horse and rider. Our approach is multi-dimensional and includes the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of both the person and horse’s well-being. We have 8 training modules that specialize in self-awareness, the spiritual connection,
relationship, discipline, confidence, biomechanics and balanced riding.
We offer a complete guide, step-by-step learning and instruction, here at our center and on our Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy Training Courses for People and Horses www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/taomethodcourse. Please click here to learn more about our training pyramid/program www.riderhorsemanship.com/rh-training-program.
Should you want to learn how to develop the relationship and ride of your dreams and from home, please check out my Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy Training Courses for People and Horses. The Online Academy is very comprehensive and includes 3 main courses, each a building block for the next to follow. The LIFETIME access gives you access to hundreds of step-by-step instructional videos and teaches you how to begin your horses training no matter if they are young and green or older and need a re-start. The videos within each course follow my foundation curriculum or program for starting and re-starting horses as well as problem solving tips and strategies. The LIFETIME access also includes BONUS materials, webinars and a discussion forum where we have created an online
community where I answer questions each week.
I highly recommend the LIFETIME membership as it gives you 24/7 access, 365 days and forever, not to mention all of the BONUS material that’s included.
Please visit my website www.riderhorsemanship.com to learn more about my method and the wide array of learning opportunities available.
Thank you and may you always be one with horses!
Warmly,
Caroline
Love your approach! You're the first horseman/woman I've ever heard say that they don't do specific desensitizing to objects. That was a major light bulb moment for me! I've really been working on keeping my horses attention on me at all times and have noticed huge improvements in their demeanor!!
Hi Sarah and Welcome! Should you want to dive deeper into my method and relationship building program please consider my online training course called The Tao Method. The Tao Method Course is a step-by-step training curriculum that focuses on developing oneness between horses and people, in mind, body and soul, so that they can learn and work together. It is an accumulation of all my training (not problem solving) DVD's and so much more. It is very comprehensive, with 12 months of course videos to watch, study and practice.
The online course works for both beginners to my method, and horse trainers. There are at least 7 learning module videos presented each month along with supplemental reading materials and "How to” practice sheets. The course is a step-by-step training and teaching curriculum that is based upon both my foundation training program for horses and my apprenticeship program for students. Basically, I am teaching you how to train/re-train your horse using my methods.
The academy host 3 courses to select. The course I am recommending is the Tao method Course
/www.schoox.com/bundle/28/The+Tao+Method+Monthly+Subscription. Once you enroll you are on a monthly subscription plan that allows you 24/7 access to any-and-all monthly videos. You can cancel at any time.
The videos are organized into 12 months with Course 1 being where you would begin. In-order-for the training curriculum to work correctly for both you and your horse you would need to follow the numerical order of the courses beginning with 1 then 2 then 3 and so on. Each monthly course contains a minimum of 7 videos and “Try This” practice sheets or guides.
A little about my purpose and why I developed The Tao Method Course. I am a rehab and foundation specialist. I have dedicated my life's work to helping both horses and people find the connection in the work their hearts desire as well as learn how to work together and in relationship. Should you be interested in learning more about my work and how to build the dream relationship and oneness we all seek when we ride, this course is for you!
My method of horsemanship is founded on a relationship oriented training program that is compassionate, spiritually driven, mindful, solution-focused and REAL - it really works!
R - Revolutionary
E - Effective
A - Amazing
L - Loving
I have a proven method of training and rehabbing horses that not only answers ALL-of-your questions while providing you with REAL solutions, it is a loving, safer and effective way to start and re-start horses. I have designed the most comprehensive training and solution based online equine academy available! Students from all over the are now able to study from home, learning the necessary skill sets needed to master the many aspects of horsemanship. My online academy provides different courses to study with a focus on my world-renown relational approach to training and developing rapport between people and their horses.
Through my courses students will not only learn how to assess, train and problem solve, they will learn how to develop the ultimate relationship with their horse during the training process. This is what makes my training approach and method so unique and amazingly rewarding for both horse and human!
The Tao Method Course is my foundational training curriculum, where I begin with each-and-every horse and person. You can now study, practice and interact with me right from your home or barnyard! Through this course you will learn how to train your horse correctly by following a step-by-step educational curriculum. While this curriculum teaches you the many building blocks necessary to develop a solid and correct foundation it also focuses on you and your horse's learning aptitude and emotional, mental and physical well-being during the process.
The Tao Method Course dives deeply into the psyche, heart and bio-mechanics of horses, taking you step-by-step into the following areas of horsemanship:
- Horse psychology
- Equine nature and specific temperament
- How to assess and work with learned behaviors
- Develop deep connections and feelings of "oneness" when working with our horses
- Learn about yourself during the process
- Develop deeper mind-body awareness, spirituality and intuitiveness
- Learn how to speak the Language of Equus through mind, body and soul work
- Work with energy, Chakra's when connecting and communicating deeply
- Develop feel and timing, the "Holy Grail" of horsemanship through specific techniques and exercises
- Become a better diagnostician and problem-solver
- Learn about the bio-mechanics of movement
- Learn how to "dance" at liberty with your horse
- Learn the Art of Lunging: balance, collection and self-carriage naturally
- Develop a Classical Dressage Foundation
- Learn to ride confidently and with a balanced and independent seat
- Develop trust, confidence and safety when working on the ground and riding
- Learn how to re-educate and rehab
- Develop a fabulous, safe partner on the trail and so much more!
Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy
Limited time offer SO get started today for only $34.95!
riderhorsemanship.com/index.php/tao-horsemanship-online-academy
Hope to see you on the online course discussion board!
Warmly,
Caroline
Wow! I have seen Zor later on and would never have guessed he would get triggered like you are saying here. He seems so calm now.
Hi Joe! Yes, he's grown up a lot. He's 12 this year and age played a great role in his development.
And you are a good horse training that's is why I watch your videos and you are good with your horse and you are a good rider with your horse and you get in to the horse heads and that's is why I watch your videos and that's is why I watch your videos that s want I did how I train my is on your videos and it help me form the ground and win I'm on my horse back thank you Nannette
Thank you for this information. I have a spooky mare as well. She can be quiet along the trail, then turn into a rodeo horse when passing along a fence with barking dogs and bolt. I am becoming increasingly scared to ride her toward home along the trail with "barking dogs." Looks like she's needing more ground work until I can get her complete attention and trust. I'm 65 and don't need an accident ! I started her on a Magnesium supplement....sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't :(
Beth Wilkegreat video...my horse is spooky on the trails too; jumps at a lot of things; buzzard flying up, wind blowing high grass, etc; in addition she has cowphobia. I have had her for 6 months and have done under horse bending and backing in a controlled catch pen. Any suggestions for fear of cows.19 hours ago•
great video...my horse is spooky on the trails too; jumps at a lot of things; buzzard flying up, wind blowing high grass, etc; in addition she has cowphobia. I have had her for 6 months and have done under horse bending and backing in a controlled catch pen. Any suggestions for fear of cows.
This video was great I wish you were closer I would send my flight horse to you, I have a trainer working with me know and I’m doing much better with this horse but he’s been the most challenging animal iv ever owned he just like your horse and I’m really having to learn a lot about flight mode
Good afternoon Caroline
I’m not sure if I can ask you a question and I do apologise and totally understand if this isn’t allowed but I would also be happy to pay for advice from you if this is an option as it is your business? Just yesterday I have discovered your You Tube videos and am so impressed with what you think, say and present! I have spent all morning watching different ones. I will look into your DVD range shortly (just found your site). I am in Port Douglas, FNQ, Oz.
A brief background - I have been riding since very young (now late 40’s) I had a bad accident (not on a horse) and ended up a little handicapped in one leg. I kept riding then lost my old gelding that I had had since a child and prior to the accident.
I then had two horses one after the other - that after your video of yesterday I now know were “spooky by nature” horses. Strong over 16 hh boys that were both malnourished when I got them so as they built up - so did their energy levels and also their natures changed. One would actually try to keep me out of the paddock if my old mare was in season!?
I got injured on this one with his flight response with him bolting on me. My confidence totally evaporated - which is quite heartbreaking. I now have a lovely natured quarter horse gelding who was a commercial trail riding horse for quite a few years. He is only 9. I know from your video with Moon (the Arabian) he is a “lovely natured settled” boy - he is a “freezer” … and very unconfident out of his comfort zone. He was considered a “beginner” horse at the trail rides but he did the same trail, day in and day out, with his head tied to another horse. His lack of confidence in new areas added to mine has made a bit of a melting pot of emotions for both of us. I am slowly, slowly learning he doesn’t actually take off - he tends to freeze when something scares him. He will then go up to it (now) and sniff and smell it. What was happening - when he was freezing - so was I - my legs were clamping, my heart would race, my hands tightening on the reins … which just transmitted straight to him. I so need to take my own advice when I was (informally) teaching friends to ride “he will know what you are thinking” !? He will go sideways if a bird flies out or something jumps in the bushes and this is where I am also learning - he will jump but then stand, snort and look but not bolt.
After all that my simple question is (I have been watching your videos but haven’t found an answer as yet?) - when they freeze when under saddle - do I let him stand, observe it and then ask him to walk up to it? He tends to want to turn his head here and there and move away and I am now just letting him stand and collect himself. I am learning so much more about him as well as he is learning to trust me more as well. I am going to work with him today on the ground as you have suggested and maybe not even ride …. I just don’t want to be doing the wrong thing by him when he is such an adorable guy. I am riding on my own. I do have family with horses but due to my “fear” - I only tend to ride around the paddocks close to home. I do have 2 old mares and a pony he is paddocked with but he is not too bad at leaving them. He does like his rides I think.
As I said earlier, I am more than happy to pay for a “consultation” with you - if this is your practice? I am just so keen to get myself back to the rider I was. I am determined which is one thing! My daughter also had two bad falls off the previous horses and I think that has scarred me a little as well.
Thanks again for your amazing videos! I’m sad I have to go to work tomorrow and won’t have time to watch more for a few days!
Regards, Natalie
My seven year old Arabian is great on trails, I've had him since weanling and have spent hundreds of hours trail riding, including doing a number of 20km and 40km endurance rides. He is usually very inquisitive and left brain in most situations, but it so happened that he went right brained on me last weekend. It's winter, so the weather is cooler. I took him on a trail that took us past some houses, people and dogs, cars, etc. He handled it ok on the way out, but on the way back he reverted to a right brain attitude. All he wanted was to bolt for home. I one reined him and jumped off. I worked with him on the ground and then got back on. He tried to take off again. This happened three times. I ended up walking him for about 20 minutes just to get him calm. Then I re-mounted and was able to walk him back calmly, although I had to correct multiple jigging attempts. It surprised me that he acted the way he did, considering his experience. In hindsight, maybe it was too much to ask on a cool winter's afternoon, in a new area with so many things to spook at. My plan is to go back there at first opportunity, and get off and work on the ground until he is super calm. I see it as a great opportunity to bombproof my horse.
I do the ground work my horse be for I get on my and that's is I'm watching your videos it is helping me win I work my horse and she is a jumper horse and a trial horse and thank you and she is 16 2 hand Nannette
Hi Stanley! Thank you and welcome! You can chase your horse away from his feed and then invite him back, on your terms. I work with rescued horses and "problem" horses all the time. It is so important that we establish respect, not just trust.
Food aggression is a displaced anxiety, a negative behavior that your horse has learned so he can cope. You can re-pattern him and not only teach him to not worry about not getting fed you can teach him to respect you and trust you even more.
If you are going to do this, be as safe as possible and begin teaching him to back up in hand and away from you - before you show him his food. Do not back him by handling him under his chin. Instead, teach him to respect rhythmic driving pressure from a lunge whip (seen in this video) and ask, tell then demand that he move back 4-5 feet from you. Once he can back easily for you, re-introduce food and before he gets close enough to eat it, ask him to back away immediately. You must be more important that his food and he must respect you.
Many of my videos show how this is done. Keep me posted! Warmly, Caroline
Hi Caroline , love all your videos. When will number 3 be coming for “training the spooky horse,.?
My horse is like Zorr; he is very spooky, and I am re-eduating him to depend on thinking rather than adrenalin
Hi Rosalind and Welcome! Thank you for sharing. Should you want to learn more about Caroline’s training, she has a large DVD selection www.taoofhorsemanship.com/shop and online training courses with lifetime access so please be sure to check them out. They offer more detail and instruction than the DVD collection. Please click here to learn more www.taoofhorsemanship.com/. If you have any additional questions please email us at support@taoofhorsemanship.com. XO, Sabrina
Hi Caroline!🥰
Thanks for your great learning videos!
You say, in this video, 'don't stand/walk next to your horse, and do not stand in front of her/him'.
Where dó I place myself then..?
Very best wishes, from
Hanni 🥰
Hi Caroline!🥰
You say: 'Don't stand next to your horse, and don't stand in front of the horse'
Then -where is the right place, to be in, when I lead my horse?
I always have my horse behind me. Is that not correct?
All the best, from, Hanni 🥰
Slow & steady! Sadly, most people rush their horse in order to get on & ride. Then, when it's too late, wonder how that (accident) happened.
Hi there Caroline. Thank you so much for this video. I'm not so good in English but I really like to tell you about my problem. I recently bought a horse, she is 12 years Icelandic horse. When I bought her I just tried her once and she was perfect, just did everything I asked for. When I had transferred her to my stable, in a different town, she does nothing else than spooks. First she spooked when I was working on the ground with her but she doesn't do that so much any more. But she always spooks when I'm riding her, if other people walk out of cars, other stables, bird flying from tree and so on for ex. I asked two well experienced trainers to ride her and she was perfectly calm and didn't spook what so ever. Although I try my very best to remain calm and not spook myself when she get spooked, it seems to me that she simply just does not trust my while I'm riding her on the trail. It is so sad because she is perfectly calm when I'm riding her inside fences, but we can't stay there forever. What do I need to do? I know it's simple to just tell me to change myself, relax and trust her, but even so I try my best to do so, she simply doesn't trust me and everything gets scary :( Sorry for my bad English. Best regards Kolbrún from Iceland :)
Hi Kolbrun and Welcome! I understand your situation and can help you. There is NO one answer for your situation though. Your mare needs trust and confidence and most of all a calm state of mind. Spooky horses are reactive horses which means they live on adrenaline. We want them living on endorphine or dopamine, the "feel good" and relaxed hormone. In order to do this we need to re-start your mare's neurochemistry in her brain. This means we work her in a way that makes her think vs react, thus developing her left, thinking side of her brain. I have a full proof training program that will help you and it's NOW offered as an online course. You can't miss this opportunity! The largest and most comprehensive online training academy for ONLY $34.95! Here is the promo for it:
A learning experience of a lifetime!!! Join Caroline Rider's Tao Method Course today for ONLY $34.95 a month!
riderhorsemanship.com/index.php/tao-horsemanship-online-academy/.
Caroline has a proven method of training and rehabbing horses that not only answers ALL of your questions while providing you with REAL solutions, it is a loving, safer and quicker way to start and re-start horses.
Caroline has designed a fabulous online course for her students! They can now learn how to both assess (understand) and train their horses using her loving and guiding method. The Tao Method Course delves into Caroline's training method deeply, taking you step-by-step, including, but not limited to: re-educating and rehabbing horses, foundation training, lunging for self-carriage and collection, riding with an independent and balanced seat, developing confidence for you and your horse, training safely, problem solving, reading and understanding horse nature and nurture/learned behavior, courses for you such as developing better feel and timing, connecting to your horse and being one, energy work, enlightenment and developing deeper consciousness and so much more!
I hope to see you on the discussion board! Warmly, Caroline
I'm having this problem with a little cutting bred mare. She was suppose to be trail broke but she jumped out from under me by a cedar tree
I'm glad I found this video. recently, I took on a very challenging horse. the reason this horse who has been ridden and shown numerous times has proven to be such a challenge is because he never truly learned to relax (he is 16 now) he had been ridden on a tight rein for so long that as soon as you pick up the rein he goes into a false frame and tenses throughout his body. once I began to teach him to accept a looser rein and relax the neck and throughout the body I was very pleased.I thought everything was going well even though I did see a lot of residual nervousness left. I became very discouraged the other day when the horse bolted on me under saddle. instinctively, I wanted to take up more contact on the rein instead of risking another bolting incident. we're now working back on the ground until we can master relaxation. it has been very challenging as this horse is just as distracted (if not more) and untrusting as the horse in the video. we are making progress though.
Hi Jessica and Welcome! Did you see Part I? czcams.com/video/hUNPmq3qM80/video.html
I understand your experiences. I've worked with so many troubled and damaged horses (over a 1,000 now) and because I see so many stressed, confused and misunderstood horses I have made it my life's mission to make it a better place for them. That's why I started my free training videos. They became so popular and in such demand that I created my online training academy. My online academy is like no other too. Not only am I all about the horse, I am all about teaching you how to relate to the horse, understand them FIRST, before you begin working with them, training them.
You need to get to your horse's heart - through relationship, and his mind! Mindset is everything to horsemanship and everything to us - believing and achieving!
Should you want to dive deeper into my method and relationship building program please consider my online training course called The Tao Method. The Tao Method Course is a step-by-step training curriculum that focuses on developing oneness between horses and people, in mind, body and soul, so that they can learn and work together. It is an accumulation of all my training (not problem solving) DVD's and so much more. It is very comprehensive, with 12 months of course videos to watch, study and practice. Here is the promotion should you be interested:
A little about my purpose and why I developed The Tao Method Course. I am a rehab and foundation specialist. I have dedicated my life's work to helping both horses and people find the connection in the work their hearts desire as well as learn how to work together and in relationship. Should you be interested in learning more about my work and how to build the dream relationship and oneness we all seek when we ride, please read on about my online training program, the Tao Method Course.
My method of horsemanship is founded on a relationship oriented training program that is compassionate, spiritually driven, mindful, solution-focused and REAL - it really works!
R - Revolutionary
E - Effective
A - Amazing
L - Loving
The online Tao method Course works for both beginners to my method, and horse trainers. There are at least 7 learning module videos presented each month along with supplemental reading materials and "How to" practice sheets. The course is being offered at a discount, and limited time, for only $34.95/month. Once you join you can access any-and-all monthly courses (videos), however you need to begin at the beginning and with Course 1.
Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy
Limited time offer SO get started today for only $34.95!
riderhorsemanship.com/index.php/tao-horsemanship-online-academy/
Caroline has a proven method of training and rehabbing horses that not only answers ALL-of-your questions while providing you with REAL solutions, it is a loving, safer and effective way to start and re-start horses. Caroline has designed the most comprehensive training and solution based online equine academy available! Students from all over the world can now study from home, learning the necessary skill sets needed to master the many aspects of horsemanship. Her online academy provides different courses to study with a focus on her world-renown relational approach to training and bonding horses and their people.
Through Caroline's courses students will not only learn how to assess, train and problem solve, they will learn how to develop the ultimate relationship with their horse during the training process. This is what makes Caroline's training approach and method so unique and amazingly rewarding for both horse and human!
The Tao Method Course is Caroline's foundational training curriculum, where she begins with each-and-every horse and person. You can now study, practice and interact with Caroline right from your home or barnyard! Through this course you will learn how to train your horse correctly by following a step-by-step educational curriculum. While this curriculum teaches you the many building blocks necessary to develop a solid and correct foundation it also focuses on you and your horse's learning aptitude and emotional, mental and physical well-being during the process.
The Tao Method Course dives deeply into the psyche, heart and bio-mechanics of horses, taking you step-by-step into the following areas of horsemanship:
- Horse psychology
- Learn about equine nature and specific temperament
- Learn how to assess and work with learned behaviors
- Develop deep connections and feelings of "oneness" when working with our horses
- Learn about yourself during the process
- Develop deeper mind-body awareness, spirituality and intuitiveness
- Learn how to speak the Language of Equus through mind, body and soul work
- Work with energy, Chakra's when connecting and communicating deeply
- Develop feel and timing, the "Holy Grail" of horsemanship through specific techniques and exercises
- Become a better diagnostician and problem-solver
- Learn about the bio-mechanics of movement
- Learn how to "dance" at liberty with your horse
- Learn the Art of Lunging
- Develop balance, collection and self-carriage
- Develop a Classical Dressage Foundation
- Learn to ride confidently and with a balanced and independent seat
- Develop trust, confidence and safety when working on the ground and riding
- Learn how to re-educate and rehab
- Develop a fabulous, safe partner on the trail and so much more!
Hope to see you on the online course discussion board!
Warmly,
Caroline
Caroline Rider I wanted to give you an update. After consistent ground work, free lunging, spending time together taking walks in-hand in unfamiliar environments, calm and easy work under saddle, this horse has come a long way. I found it was mostly reconditioning his mindset. He is much less anxious and now seeking guidance from me. When I first started working him, he was overwhelmed by fear and anxiety and was unable to follow my commands in a relaxed mindset. He is still a little spooky and easily distracted, but I am able to regain his attention in a fraction of the time it took us when I first started working with him. It's a very good feeling and I am happy to have come upon your videos. They have reinforced the natural and instinctive feelings I have about working with horses. Many people at my barn judge me for spending much time on the ground rather than riding. My horses are of the highest energy, but are the most relaxed and willing. I hope there will one day be a shift in the attitude of horse people to see their horse as a working partner and not a performer. Just hanging out with your horse with no expectations is so powerful. The atmosphere in so many facilities is rigid. You can feel the tension in the horses and their owners. Simply changing your mindset and feeling an altruistic intent to communicate and bond with an animal is most powerful. Thanks for your inspriration!
Hi Jessica! That is great to hear! Keep up the awesome work and keep me posted!
Love your work Caroline, give's me hope with my 8yr old thoroughbred (trailed but not raced - not that it makes a difference really as they still go through the process in my opionion). My horse is good under saddle, and will lead and back well. If however I go whilst he is feeding (he is VERY food orientated) and take off his cover he kicks out at me and is not happy for me to be there at all.
I see in this video you have the halter tied higher on the horse's head. It seems a much safer position than in part I. Is there any reasoning behind the difference?
Great video!!! I m just still not shure what you mean with "drop the shoulder".. ( english isnt my first language..)
Hi LambertsLabelle and Welcome! Thank you! "Dropping a shoulder" means just that. The horse is ready to bolt or shy away from something they are afraid of and they crouch low in the front, drop one shoulder, usually spin and bolt away. Warmly, Caroline
How do you teach a horse that the whip is used to get their attention? My horse is very spooky and if I crack the whip or get it near him he runs away bucking and almost takes my finger with him. Ive done desensitizing with him for months now but as soon I lunge him the whip suddenly becomes super scary to him. I think he respects me but he is very anxious and nervous of everything. He is an ottb and I can’t seem to fix his spookyness. Once he spooks, he doesn’t come back from it until the next day and he’ll be worse. He is very strong and hard to handle and bucks as soon as you get on foot in the saddle.
Any videos on how to get a dominant gelding to longethat knows how to but refuses
Hi Caroline, do you have maybe experience with horses who have some trouble with gribbing? When they are biting in wood and putting some air in the stomach to this moment. This is not truly healthy for the teeth and body. I was getting such a horse with this trouble. Is there maybe an solution? Thank you! Best wishes to you! God bless you! Susan
Hi Susan and Welcome! Cribbing is a really difficult behavior to correct or fix. It is causd by a deeply rooted negative emotional response, trauma, trigger. If caught as a weanling it can be corrected. The #1 reason it's so hard to fix is the length of time the horse has been cribbing. Once the behavior is set, a year or longer, and they are cribbing 50% or greater, it's impossible. I have had success with babies and I have reduced cribbing by 75% with adult horses using my method.
Hi Caroline, Zoar seems like he freezes when he's scared. What about horses that run around crazy when scared, how can you gain confidence around an unpredictable and flighty horse? My horse, thoroughbred X racehorse, did jump into me and I've been injured so need to gain confidence but because she's so jumpy Im not really sure how to go about getting back to her. Plus doesn't help that my brain is on alert too and I have unwanted picture scenes of her running into me.
Hi Blume and Welcome! I'm sorry to hear about your TB running you down. That must of have been a very scary experience.
Zor freezes first then goes into flight and has run a few people over in the past. He has not run me down because I practice my leading in front, shoulder over/sending and backing exercises. I practice the same exercises you see in this video with Zor with every horse however my approach varies according to the horse's behavior and needs. If I had a really hyper vigilant, spooky horse I would practice backing them away and off of me AND you need to be prepared for them to react and want to push through, run over you. My exercises are the answer and they are more complicated, layered, than meets the eye so you have to study them and practice them and be ready to MATCH your horses adrenaline should they want to react dangerously and run through you.
I hope that helps and gives you the direction you need. I have 18 DVD's that teach my method and offer solutions for working with horses like yours. Here is the link to my website and my DVD selection: riderhorsemanship.com/index.php/product-category/dvds-2/
Please keep me posted. Warmly, Caroline
I have a 20 year old "Selle Francais" who is still afraid when riding out of our place...Will give a look at some of your videos; might FINALLY learn something. Wonder if we're related? cheers...rr
Hi Richard and Welcome! Great! I look forward to hearing from you again. Warmly, Caroline
When you work your horse on the ground with different exercises, how those exercises will be transferred when you are under saddle ?
Hi Suzanne and Welcome! Great question, thank you. In this video my purpose is not to train. It's to help this horse work through his triggers so he can reset his nervous system. He has to feel the difference being in his PNS offers and through endorphin release. Until this happens he is not ready to learn, open to learning. And, yes, all of my groundwork and lunging transfers over into riding. I offer a complete training program www.taoofhorsemanship.com/horse-riding-holistic-program
Can I ask you how do I have control with my horse I fall on my and broke my hip thank you Nanette
Hi Naunette! I'm so sorry to hear about your accident! I wish you speedy recovery. I have a very comprehensive and proven online training program for both horses and humans, it's called MasteryMembership Relationship, Ground & Riding Foundation Program. Every horse on my channel (including thousands more) have been rehabilitated, developed, started and finished (upper levels and performance) using my program. It is designed to develop your horsemanship while you develop your horse. This is your answer, through and through. Please click here for details www.taoofhorsemanship.com/horse-riding-holistic-program and email me directly should you like to schedule a Zoom session to discuss further. www.taoofhorsemanship.com/horse-riding-holistic-program
Can I ask you how do I get confused win I ride my thank you Nanette
My mare changed barns for 4 months and lost her mind. Ever heard of that? And I was away for all 4 months.
Hi Chopperdoll! Sorry to hear about your fall. I mention in the video that the dressage saddle keeps your leg and seat in position - that's what they are designed to do, and much better than a western saddle. Any pointing of toes (up or down) creates brace in our bodies and opposition to movement. Opposition to movement is what creates the fall. Having a relaxed leg WHILE gripping lightly with your inner thigh is a must. We also need to have a lose and flexible pelvis so we can "move with the horse" should they jump or dart off. In addition, you should be able to supple them easily and ask for lateral flexion at any given time, walk, trot and canter.
Working with drafts does present a conundrum unfortunately when trying to "stay on". They spook easily, are powerful and agile. They were bred to be more submissive and timid than most breeds (because of their intimidating size handlers wanted to be able to control them easily).
Getting back to your fall and not getting back on, you don't have to get on right now. I don't recommend it anyway. This video is about working your spooky horses left brain, his thinking brain as well as developing more trust and confidence in the both of you. I mention periodically within the video about how to work safely and on the ground first. You learn how to read the signs of the spook and "catch the thought before the action" which is when it's too late. There is much you can do together to rebuild trust and confidence.
I wish you the best in your journey with your horse! Warmly, Caroline
I was under the impression that backing up a already anxious horse makes them even more anxious. What is your thought on that ?
Hi again Naciye! Yes, backing a horse like this one (Zor) without proper preparation, some education and training, would be disasterous. You don't start here with a horse like this, one who is very afraid of the woods and doesn't respect space. You have to start in a place, environment, where the horse feels safe so his mind is open to learning and not fixated on surviving. After you've taught your horse how to connect, trust and respect your space in his safe space, you "test" it elsewhere.
Backing is my #1 exercise used on every horse I work with too, it's part of their assessment. It tells me a lot about the horse. From there I can design a training program that will help the horse learn how to back with trust, connection, respect and confidence. Remember, you don't train a nervous horse where they are most nervous. You do the training where they are relaxed so they can learn. You then take them to the area, thing, they are more unsure of and test your relationship, connection, confidence.
@@TaoofHorsemanship this is such helpful advice and makes me feel better about not pushing my horse in situations where he is most nervous. I am taking it very slow, especially with my level of experience. Thank you again for your thorough response
@@PersonalTriumph2022 Great to hear! I'm so glad I could help!
Hi Beth and Welcome! There are several ways in which you can help your horse overcome fear and gain trust in you as a leader and confidence and courage in themselves. I practice systematic desensitizing which is about approach and retreat. You gradually work your way to the scary object or place all the while recognizing your horses emotional thresholds during the advances. Soon as your horse balks, hesitates or shies stop immediately and back up or walk away until your horse relaxes. This approach is the easiest and takes patience, feel and timing on your part. This process can take weeks to months. If your horse is bat crazy like my horse was in thie first video you will need to learn how to work with that and help your horse work through his fear. This requires learning specific exercises, techniques, and approaches. I offer this level of training and education in my DVD collection on my website www.riderhorsemanship.com and under "shop". You will a wide array of DVDS to select from. I recommend choosing my first series and DVDS from my problem solving selection.
I look forward to keeping in touch!
Warmly, Caroline
My horse dose not spooky she keep dose not spooky is be I work with win she was a baby and I broke her win she was a 2year old her and she dose not care your videos help me win train my horse and I like your videos and it help me with my horse Nannette
halfway the video i was in great stress, so i wonder how the horse feels inside. I see no connection.
Im the same, the videos i find stressful ad i'm so worried, being a dangerous situation. Must have Trust and Respect from a horse for both to be safe and want to work together. i'm glad i'm not the only one!!
I have a lazy horse 🐎
Will this horse ever not be a spooky horse?
Hi Daniele and Welcome! Yes! He is no longer spooky and afraid of everything. Zor needed to mature, gain experience and most of our develop a stronger relationship with me so he trusted me more.
Of course you cannot bend him in that bosal. He needs a bit in order to be bent. If he respects the bit and gives to it, he will think more about potentially bolting if he knowes that you CAN yank his head around. I know bits hurt but it's better than you getting hurt, in my opinion.
Can I ask you win I ponying my horse win I ride my she don't want my she get mad why I do that's is I don't want her to spook on the trail she is not my win poenying want I do thank you Nannette
Nodding as you speak.
Too much talking about what you are going to talk about or what you talked about in the “last video”. I want to see examples. Lots of talk and minimal content.
Horses are very predictable.
That is a very unhappy horse.
Horses are very predictable.
Horses are very predictable.