Horse Behavior Diagnostic
While there is no replacement for experience and a trainer you trust, this might be a good place to start if your horse is showing unwanted behaviors.
So often when we think our horses are being "naughty" or difficult, there is an underlying cause that comes back to one of these 6 categories. Take this assessment to determine if your horse needs more support in one or more of the following categories. If you need help with fixing these issues, I'll give you an opportunity to request more resources and support.
Does your horse mirror your energy, or escalate independently?
Do you rely on wet saddle blankets or working them down to have an enjoyable ride?
Does your groundwork transfer clearly to under saddle behavior?
Do your aids become less effective as the ride goes on?
When you feel nervous to ride, what happens?
Is your horse different for a trainer than for you?
Do you feel like you have the tools you need to help your horse through challenges when they arise?
What happens when your horse sees something new or scary?
Can your horse focus on you in new or distracting environments?
When issues arise, do you feel confident that you can rule out pain or discomfort before addressing behavioral issues?
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You might have a groundwork problem.
It sounds like your problems might be solved with a little groundwork, unglamorous though it may be. The issues you are experiencing can be solved from the ground. Check your inbox for some free groundwork resources to help you get started.
It sounds like you might need help from a skilled trainer.
You might have a problem with several root issues, or you might just
It sounds like you might have a rider fitness problem (either physical or mental)
As riders we often defend our sport but forget that this means we are athletes. We skip training our bodies and brains, and it is to the detriment of our horses. If this feels intimidating no need to worry, check your inbox for some free (and shame-free) resources that might help with some body and brain positive options for cross training as a rider.
It sounds like you might have an exposure problem.
We often forget that our comfort doesn't grow unless we stretch it, and same for our horses. This doesn't mean blowing through it, or pushing super hard, but it does mean we need to spend intentional time mindfully exposing our horses to tricky situations. Check your inbox for some free resources and tips that will help you with mindful exposure.
It sounds like you might have a supportive care problem.
This could be nutrition, physical pain or discomfort, saddle fit, conditioning, or shoeing. It might be a good idea to get a good vet to do a thorough once over to rule out any pain, then check your inbox for some other helpful tips and resources.