Horse SpookingIf you're a horse owner, you know how scary it can be when your horse spooks at something unexpected. Riding a spooky horse can be incredibly challenging, as their behaviour can be unpredictable and dangerous. However, there are some innovative ideas you can use to help calm down your horse and build their confidence. In this blog post, we'll be discussing some practical groundwork exercises that you can use to help your spooky horse feel more comfortable and less nervous.

 

Understanding Spooky Behaviour in Horses

 

First, let's talk about what causes a horse to be spooky. Spooking is a natural instinct for horses as they are prey animals, and it's how they survive in the wild. They're always on the lookout for potential danger, and any sudden movement or noise can trigger a spook. Some horses are naturally more nervous than others, and young horses are generally more prone to spooking than older ones.

 

Groundwork to Build Confidence in Your Horse

 

Groundwork exercises are one of the best ways to help your horse feel more comfortable and less nervous. Groundwork is essential to natural horsemanship and involves working with your horse on the ground to build trust and communication. Establishing a good relationship with your horse on the ground can help them feel more confident and secure when you ride them.

 

Exercise 1: Desensitizing Your Horse to Scary Objects

 

One of the most effective groundwork exercises for a spooky horse is desensitisation. This involves exposing your horse to scary objects or situations in a controlled environment and gradually increasing the intensity of the experience until they are comfortable. Start by introducing your horse to a scary object, like a tarp or a plastic bag, while they're on a lead rope. Allow them to sniff and investigate the object while you stand nearby, reassuring them with a calm and reassuring voice. Over time, you can gradually increase the intensity of the experience by introducing more scary objects or by making the objects more intimidating. Remember always to reward your horse with positive reinforcement when they show bravery and calmness.

 

Exercise 2: Pole Work for Building Confidence and Trust

 

Another effective groundwork exercise for a spooky horse is pole work. This involves placing poles on the ground and asking your horse to walk over them calmly and confidently. This exercise helps build trust and confidence in your horse and improves their balance and coordination. You can start by placing one pole on the ground and ask your horse to walk over it. Once they're comfortable with one pole, you can gradually increase the number of poles and vary the distance between them. Remember always to praise your horse for their efforts and use positive reinforcement to encourage them.

 

Exercise 3: Using Pressure and Release to Teach Your Horse to Relax

 

Using pressure and release is another effective way to help your horse relax and become less spooky. This involves applying pressure to your horse in a controlled manner and releasing it as soon as they show the desired response. For example, you can apply pressure to your horse's head by gently pulling the lead rope to one side, and release it as soon as they turn their head towards you. This exercise helps to teach your horse to relax and trust you, and can be especially useful for horses with separation anxiety.

 

Final Thoughts on Groundwork Exercises

 

If you have a spooky horse, working with them is essential to build their confidence and trust. Groundwork exercises are an effective way to achieve this and can help to desensitise your horse to scary objects, build their balance and coordination, and teach them to relax

 

Working Safely with a Spooky Horse

 

While groundwork exercises can be highly effective for calming down a spooky horse, it's essential to prioritise your safety when working with a nervous horse. Here are some tips to help you work safely with your spooky horse:

 

  • Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet and sturdy boots.
  • Work in a safe and enclosed area, such as a round pen or arena, to prevent your horse from running away or getting spooked by external stimuli.
  • Keep a safe distance from your horse's hindquarters to avoid getting kicked.
  • Be mindful of your body language and remain calm and relaxed, even if your horse behaves nervously.
  • Always listen to your horse and respect their boundaries. If they're feeling uncomfortable or scared, stop what you're doing and reassess the situation.

 

Working safely and mindfully with your spooky horse can help build their trust in you and create a positive training experience.

 

Checking for Pain and Consulting a Vet

 

It's essential to keep in mind that underlying pain or health issues can sometimes cause spooky behaviour in horses. Before beginning any training or groundwork exercises, you must check for any signs of pain or discomfort in your horse. These may include:

 

  • Lameness or limping
  • Soreness or stiffness in the muscles or joints
  • Difficulty breathing or coughing
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Changes in behaviour or temperament

 

If you suspect that your horse may be experiencing pain or discomfort, it's essential to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. They can help diagnose any underlying health issues and recommend appropriate treatment options. Addressing any underlying health issues can help your horse feel more comfortable and reduce their tendency to spook.
Working with a spooky horse can be challenging, but with patience, practice, and safety measures in place, you can help your horse overcome their nervous behaviour and build their confidence. Always prioritise your safety and your horse's wellbeing, and consult a veterinarian if you suspect any underlying health issues.

 

Rider Self-Awareness and Mindfulness

 

When working with a spooky horse, you must be aware of your emotions and body language. Horses are highly intuitive animals and can sense when their handlers are nervous or fearful, exacerbating their spookiness. Here are some tips to help you stay calm and confident when working with your spooky horse:

 

  • Take deep breaths and focus on your own body language. Make sure you're standing tall, relaxed, and confident.
  • Visualize a positive outcome and focus on your goals for the training session.
  • Stay present and mindful, paying attention to your horse's behaviour and body language.
  • Use positive self-talk to boost your confidence and remain calm.

 

Remember that your horse is highly attuned to your emotions and body language, so staying calm and confident can reduce their spookiness. Practising self-awareness and mindfulness can build a stronger bond with your horse and create a positive training experience.
By staying mindful of your own emotions and body language, you can help reduce your horse's spookiness and build their confidence. Remember always to stay calm, focused, and safe, and consult a veterinarian if you suspect any underlying health issues.

 

Further Resources

If you want to learn more about working with a spooky horse, many resources are available to help you. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Horsemanship Journal Magazine: Horsemanship Journal is a printed magazine for UK equestrians that covers a wide range of horse health, care, and training topics. Subscribing to the magazine can provide valuable insights and tips for working with your spooky horse.
  • Your Veterinarian: If you suspect that your horse may be experiencing pain or discomfort, it's essential to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. Your veterinarian can help diagnose underlying health issues and recommend appropriate treatment options.
  • YouTube Playlist: Check out this curated playlist featuring videos by Mark Langley, Warwick Schiller, Julie Goodnight, Tik Maynard, and Jason Webb. These experts have all written articles for Horsemanship Journal and offer valuable insights into working with a spooky horse.

 

 

By taking advantage of these and other resources, you can continue to learn and grow as a horse owner and help your spooky horse become a confident and happy partner.