How to Train a Spooky and Unpredictable Horse, Part I

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 viewer has inquired about her flighty horse and how typical desensitizing methods seemed harsh, making her horse more scared. She asked me about my holistic approach to training and what I recommended to help her horse trust more, feel safe and brave.
I demonstrate in this video how I will help a more unconfident horse develop trust, confidence and bravery. I do this without focusing on the scary object or environment or forcing the horse to acknowledge or work with the scary object. In the end, it’s not about the object or scary place. It’s about 3 key areas: 1) Trust, Love and Leadership: are you more important than the scary object (does the horse focus on you) and how the horse feels when they are with you - do they feel safe and comfortable.
My holistic approach focuses on understanding the "why" - why our horse spooks. Horses are skeptical by nature AND they are also hardwired to conserve their energy. This means that they do not run away from perceived danger, rather they freeze first so they can assess the possibility of a threat. This freezing lasts only a few seconds too so you have to pay close attention to notice that they don't just run off every time they are unsure. Horses are also curious by nature. If you horse is not curious, he is not brave. If your horse reacts to everything and/or reacts with extreme flight, they have learned this behavior. Meaning they have learned to react to situations and objects they are unfamiliar with. This is not normal behavior. I know this to be true because I’ve studied and worked with both wild horses and weanlings. Horses by nature are adaptable. They are also quiet, low key, which allows them to conserve their energy for real danger when they must take off into flight.
Here are the 3 written exercises, mindsets, necessary to achieving trust, confidence, bravery and safety with our horse. They are also explained in detail with the video. These exercises will help you achieve the level of trust your horse needs in order to feel safe with you.
You need to become more important than what your horse is worried about - both in relationship and leadership.
You don’t stop working with your horse until they achieve the 3 “R’s”: Responsiveness, Rhythm and Relaxation.
Your horse is ready to investigate what they are worried about. This mean they don’t rush past it, blow through it, avoid it. They are relaxed and curious.
Please visit www.riderhorsemanship.com for more education materials, DVD's, clinic opportunities, training and the TAO of Horsemanship Online Foundation Course.

[@juliemgates]

Finally!!!! I have finally found a trainer who films a video using a horse that is not completely trained. My warmblood mare is pretty much at this very stage and this is the first video that gives me hope that I can remedy her fears on my own. Thank you so much Caroline. Time for me to start from the beginning with your videos. Wish us luck!

[@LittleGrey242]

I agree - this is so valuable!

[@katelynolckers8913]

Dis is also the first video that gives me hop that i can get my horse relax

[@shitunabat7913]

Good luck, you got this!!

[@sarahnystrom8517]

@@shitunabat7913 you're so encouraging. Go you!!

[@jsisisisjjsjsjsj2819]

Same here. I got lied to by the owner that sold my horse and she is scared straight of saddles and bolts to the point that my dad's shoulder got pulled and now he has permanent shoulder issues. Also good luck

[@kimberlysmiley316]

I appreciate the mix of firmness and compassion that you show, I have a nervous horse that I am working on gaining his trust and respect. Really like your way of training!

[@susandelemus5376]

I found Caroline on KZbin because recently my 18 year old has been becoming more and more spooky. I realized pretty quickly that I was making things worse. So when I searched the spooky horse this video came up. This is so excellent and so well taught that I went out and got a carriage whip immediately. I implemented her technique today and it was fabulous. My mare started out on adrenaline but after teaching her what I wanted from her she relaxed and was so brave in the scary areas we worked in. This is definitely going to take a while to get better at this but I love, love, love Caroline's methods! It was such a great thing to watch for the lower lip being tight and then finally licking and chewing and even grazing right next to the scary object. She kept her shoulders away from as well. Thank you so much Caroline, you are fabulous!!!

[@itsmelexi8679]

I needed this my 17.2 hand horse is scared of EVERYTHING! thank you for the amazing video!

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Lexi and Welcome! Thank you! I share more free videos and great articles on my Rider Horsemanship Facebook page facebook.com/RiderHorsemanship/. Please share my work with others so we can spread the word! 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

[@jrodney65]

I love your approach and your compassion for each horse. I have a 23 year old halter horse mare, who's extremely nervous. She will hide in the run in when she hears a sound she doesnt like. I've tried so many different ideas with her. Some days are better then others. One end of my arena is her " no way am I going over there" zone. Petrified!!

[@lilyloveslife2737]

Oh sorry but Thanks for the laugh! 🤣🤣 some horses are so flighty!

[@HolisticHorse]

My holistic approach focuses on understanding the "why" - why our horse spooks. Caroline Rider

[@_veronica_r]

Oh my goodness, Zor was so different back then! He's grown so much since you've had him, Caroline, and I hope you see that in him!

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Veronica! Yes, I sure do and thank you!

[@roseault6335]

I did this today and is realllllllly worked! Thank you so much for giving me confidence to do that and now my horse has confidence in me :) xx

[@lauriesmith9299]

Thanks Caroline, excellent video. I have been dealing with this for years. This all speaks to a much deeper problem with my relationship that my horse and I have. I will be starting over with him. Thanks again.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Laurie! I just saw that you enrolled, subscribed, in my online Tao Method Course! Looking forward to hearing from you on the discussion board or via email!

[@Damnhalfarab]

I think your approach is FANTASTIC! I loved how to "closed the door" letting the horse make the mistake of running into your whip & nice FIRM FAIR leadership :) Looking forward to watching more of your videos! My half arab is alot like this horse 1/3 of the time. The rest of the time, she's the calmest 1/2 QH. Thank you!

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Elizabeth and Welcome! Awesome to hear how well my work resonates with you! 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

[@janicefjohnson1]

Dear Caroline, Want to thank you for sharing all that you do on youtube. As I'm a Parelli student, level 4 now, it's so nice to realize that someone shares such important lessons to people who don't think they need that trust and understanding from a horse. I know a lot of trainers who just say, 'they need to just have miles put on them.' This type of western mentality is so sad and I want to thank you. I have shared this site with people I know and hope you have a wonderful day...

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Janice! Thank you:) I look forward to hearing from you and keeping in touch. Feel free to contact me via my email: [e-mail]. Warmly, Caroline

[@TerrySiler]

I stopped riding Misty about 8 years ago, now she went to a refresher course for a month. I sold her 9 months ago. She started acting like a stud horse and I have to keep her by her self. She does look around in the field's and gets spooked a few times on our trail ride on our property, I was very excited to see I mainly need to get that communication back between us to keep her focused on me! Thank you! That helped enough me.

[@PurplePoppyAnimator]

This is amazing, thank you so much! Purchased my first horse the other day, and while broken and riding, is very jumpy and nervous, he's been doing fantastic with a little TLC so far but while he won't bolt, he'll still jump at the slightest sudden noise, the curiosity is there and you can see how he really wants to try, and these methods have really been helping him come out of his shell!

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Micky and Welcome! Sounds like your horse is either defensive or distrustful of the whip.I mention in this video that I would not be coming on so strong with the whip if my horse was afraid. Zor is not afraid. He is more afraid of the woods and what might come and get him. His attention is not focused on me. The use of the whip not only interrupts his escalation it helps to re-focus him back onto me. My intention with the whip is for Zor to respect it (not plow through it) not fear it. This goes for any horse and tool. You will need to help your horse not fear the whip before you use it. Let me know if you are interested in learning how to help him understand that the whip is a communication tool, there to help re-connect, communicate and teach when necessary. Warmly, Caroline

[@sarahnystrom8517]

Caroline please please tell me my horse fears the whip not in a running around like crazy but in a way that she only listens to the whip not really to me. Help me

[@saarlooswolfhund6237]

@@sarahnystrom8517 put the whip on your ass and stop watching this animal abusing bullshit here

[@lydiaprimavera3786]

It's really fun to see Zor years back in this video after watching you out hacking with him in March! It really shows how much he's connected to Caroline, grown up, learned and matured let alone riding along the woods with curiosity instead of fear. Checking in with Caroline and Callan! Love these developmental videos!💖

[@sidilicious11]

Thanks Caroline! This is just what I needed for an identical problem with working my 4 yr old in a round pen he deemed very scary. Today I tried what you did in this video and it worked like a charm. I am very appreciative of you putting out this video!

[@דודמישל]

תודה רבה על העזרה

[@clareamanda364]

Amazing video. Thanks. This is exactly my boy. This makes perfect sense

[@homeedconnect]

I realize this video was done a long time ago, but it remains SO relevant! Thank you for giving me more tools and techniques to help my very horses.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Homeedconnect and Welcome! Thank you! Should you want to learn more I offer a video library monthly subscription that includes courses on rehabbing the traumatized riding horse. www.taoofhorsemanship.com/video-library.

[@lilyg591]

It's SO beautiful to watch! Thank you Caroline!! xx

[@coffeehugger]

Watching you with that horse, he is just same as mine. Can see it all in the eyes, lip, the breathing. So familiar. Following the paper trail, my horse was trucked all over the US and many auctions. I have no idea what she saw, but she has many triggers. If I leave her alone, I think she would never leave the stall, I don't need to fence her. In her mind, she is staying put, so when I ride off with her, does not take much to get her to spook. This redirection is really cool , and for sure trust is a two way street.

[@hr2513]

I am glad I stumbled on this method, we become one with the horse and understanding one another’s psyche facilitates oneness.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Hector and Welcome! Thank you! I share more free videos and great articles on my Rider Horsemanship Facebook page facebook.com/RiderHorsemanship/. Please share my work with others so we can spread the word! 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

[@sarahnystrom8517]

I can't imagine doing any other kind of training except yours. Thank you.

[@sarahnystrom8517]

Hi. Whatcha doing on a Caroline Beste video. I commented on pretty much all her videos so every video you can say hi. Anyway whatcha doing on one of her videos.

[@sarahnystrom8517]

Ellen Payne ok nothing. I can’t text you because I locked myself out of my phone and Ethan had to restart it. Sorry

[@sarahnystrom8517]

She’s moving soon 😭but it’s fine cause I’ll see her a lot.

[@sarahnystrom8517]

Ellen Payne hi! My phone won’t charge! It keeps shutting off before it will charge 😢 and I really wanted to talk to you so I went here. 😂 I need your email. I have your email for bccs. When you see this you can tell me your email and then delete your comment so no one else sees it. This is so complicated!

[@ForeverYoungTattooCo]

Thank you .Thank you. Working on this right after lunch.

[@MollyGaia]

this video made me cry it's better than therapy to hear and watch this woman with another hum- horse

[@lisajignoffo9442]

Fantastic!! Thank you! This was gold❤️

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Lisa and Welcome! Great to hear, so glad I could help!

[@kristyzahn5661]

Thank u so much for providing information on this for free That’s very kind of u. My horse is so spooky so now I know how to help. Thank u!!!!

[@geraldineblair]

Have a look at Warwick Schiller , his last video works on a young horse who won't ride straight away from another horse in an arena. He allows the horse to find a spot to rest by not controlling the horse. Your technique is the one I used to use, but now there is a better way by allowing the horse to control itself. Have a look at his video and I think you will join the dots

[@lilyloveslife2737]

@Tao of Horsemanship, hi Carolyn, love your way of teaching. Close to the end of the video, you mention how lots of trainers say to work the horses feet to redirect energy. An approach my trainer needed to get my nervous new horse on a float. Isn't that what you did in a nutshell though? Worked your horses feet? Even with the 3 stage approach? Thankyou for your tireless work. Thinking of joining the academy! 😁

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Lily and Welcome! Great question and I think (hope) I answer it in the video. I did this video so I could show a different way. My videos are jammed packed with lots of golden nuggets of info too and many of my students study the videos because each time they revisit they see so much more or hear something they didn't hear before. Please watch again as I go into detail why I am working Zor the way I am, my purpose and result. To answer you question directly, no, I would never move my horses feet to redirect energy and that's because it will only escalate them, teaching them to feed off the adrenaline. Zor is an extremely dangerous case. He needs many things with maturity/age (he's only 4), experience (natural habituation) and bonding. I get strong and direct with him because he is so unsafe leading to and from the pasture with the woods nearby. He was very unpredictable. When I get strong, assertive, it is to 1) match his energy so I can direct his mind, get his attention and connection. I keep offering him a safe place of grounded energy (within me) when we stop. He just isn't ready (for the reasons I list) to connect and trust me. Hope that made sense! I am offering HUGE discount on my Mastery Program RIGHT NOW, click here to join www.taoofhorsemanship.com/masterymembership.

[@moniqueprince7845]

THANK YOU!!! I have a draft cross who scared to leave the yard and I want to trail ride and run the beach. This is perfect! I just found you and I'm hoping you have more videos like this! Monique from Chester NH USA

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Monique 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. Or you can join us for our Everything Horses & More LIVE Podcast/Webinar hosted every Tuesday, and Wednesday at 12pm EST on facebook.com/TaoofHorsemanship/. If not, that’s okay. You can find the recording on our Tao of Horsemanship Facebook page. Thanks again and I hope to see you on our show! XO, Sabrina

[@johnjacobs4207]

excellent instruction I appreciate your knowledge. In my many years of horse breeding I have found that genetics makes all the difference . Some horse lines have not been culled for fear and love sickness. The owners have let that trait go for hundreds of years not realizing what they are passing on. I welcome your discussion.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi John and Welcome! Yes, I totally agree. Horse owners aren't paying attention to bloodlines when they purchase. Unfortunately most of my audience "acquires" horses or rescues them so they have no history of the horse.

[@sshepard5222]

Amazing video to help solve an issue I’ve been working on

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Great to hear S Shepard, if you have any questions please email Caroline at [e-mail]. Thanks Sabrina

[@sophiepearce5890]

Thank you so much.... this is so helpful to me here in the UK. 😊

[@stevesoutdoorworld4340]

Wow you sure are tuned in to these critters.You sure make it look easy.Great work!

[@annchap1]

thanks for your video. I have tried this with my horse in the past and noticed how she calms down when I keep asking for direction change. At first she gets pissed, but within 30 seconds she is wanting to stop and stand calmly or just walk. Works great and now that I see how you do it I will try it even more and in more circumstances. Thanks again! Great explanation and beautiful horse!

[@kathleennemetz704]

I loved learning about the rhino lip indicator...

[@geehaw93]

Thank you for making these videos and freely distributing them. I just discovered your site and will be tuning in more. I don't have the resources to attend clinics or lessons with my horse right now and every time I find a video that helps open that door of understanding, even a tiny bit, for me and my mare it's like finding gold. So, thank you first of all. I'll wait on asking questions until I've watched more of your videos in case you've answered them already. For now, I'll just say that while Hanna is a much calmer horse than she was 4 years ago when I got her, I know that I still don't have her mind. When outside of her limited comfort zone she is scared to death of everything. I don't think she's been abused, just that her prey instincts are naturally on the high end of the bell curve. I suspect that is why she hadn't found that forever home yet. I really want to be that for her but I'll tell ya, she wears me down. I've had to ask myself why I rarely ride this horse that I have wanted my whole life and finally have. It's because she still doesn't feel confident in my leadership after four years of patient loving firmness and I've lost confidence in my ability to get it. That's enough out of me. Thanks again. -Kelley

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Kelley and Welcome! I look forward to hearing more from you and am more than happy to answer any questions! Warmly, Caroline

[@geehaw93]

Caroline Rider Thanks for the fast response. :-) I just got back from trying what you demonstrated in the above video. Hanna was wound pretty tight when we started but it really didn't take too long to feel like we were getting somewhere. I don't have a round pen so it's good to see you working out in an open area and verbally translating your horses ques. That is so helpful. I can out-patience a rock, but I need to be real sure about when and why I'm asserting authority because I've done it poorly before and made bad situations worse. I don't want to make those mistakes again. This video has already helped.

[@Kat89Kruger]

Thank you Caroline for your awesome videos! After watching this video I went out and started watching my mare's bottom lip when training. She's always had a droopy lip when being groomed or loved on, but now I can tell when she's starting to get stressed, like you said, that bottom lip gets real tight and just before she licks and chews the bottom lip relaxes. Thank you again :)

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Kat89Kruger Awesome Kat! Warmly, Caroline

[@pilatesfitinbalance]

Thank you Caroline for this Video 🥰 !! I help with a mare these days who must have some kind of trauma with open fields. She's about 8 years and we don't know anything about her past, except that there has happend a carriage accident to her horse-sister... but we don't know whether she was there or not, nor what else has happend... anyway, when i started with her about 3 months ago she used to be absolutely jittery and fearful of everything, thats all better now - way to go though - she only trusts me and her owner, nobody else can touch her hind end, lift her hind feet etc...she has a problem with male people, men talking or handling her scares her all over the place.... but the biggest issue is that as soon as you go onto the open field (gras) with her, she's exploding. It happens from 0 to 100 in a second. A moment she's fine and suddenly she sets of like a rocket. Rearing (lots of), galopping around you and just losing her head, obviously. The good thing is though she always maintains her distance, when rearing/galopping, it's never against us, it just seems she can't do anything else. I can calm her down then but of course we're not forcing that to happen and try to get her used to these areas little by little now. Just put a few feet on the gras, relax and go back to the track etc.... what do you think? I've seen lots of your videos and highly appreciate you sharing your experience 🥰 If you have any thoughts/ideas on this I#d just be so happy!!! Thanks a lot *light&love* Jessi

[@carlawright4075]

I enjoyed watching your video. Thank you for thoroughly explaining what to look for and what to do! Very helpful!

[@nigeldavis7171]

Thankyou so much for your amazing videos, i have 4 rescue ponies and your techniques have helped so much in giving me control and respect in a kind calm manor, the improvements have been fantastic...THANKYOU!!!

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Nigel and Welcome! You are welcome! Thank you and enjoy!

[@birgittakiviet4145]

I am writing you from Sweden. I have to compliment you on very nice work - great video - you sure know your horses! I have a 15 year old gelding that has been with me since he was 5. His muscles are always tense and he is nervous. He does not have a normal behaviour and I think that is for 2 reasons: 1: he has been treated badly (former race horse that has freaked out most of the time)2: he has been treated for Lime Disease (which can stick to the nervous system for years they tell me). I have done - and still do - lots of groundwork (also with all kind of tools and plastic bags and nothing seems to bother him) and trick training which he loves and he really trusts and respects me BUT out on the trail he can just blow up for something that I never seem to see or hear (but he does apparantly). This happens within half a second and most of the time I stay on (which is good because I am 68 years old). Now I wonder one thing: Can this just be his pesonality? I really love this horse but man am I getting to old for this:-)

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Birgitta and Welcome! Your horse may be more sensitive than other horses which can add to becoming overwhelmed or over stimulated easily. There is no quick fix for horses with trauma and triggers. You need to re-start him. Ground work and building blocks are a must here. Please check out my MasteryMembership Online Training Program for People and Horses where I offer a step-by-step training curriculum that will create the horse you need and want! www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/mastery-membership-regular

[@birgittakiviet4145]

@@TaoofHorsemanship Thank you very much for taking the time to answer me. I will gladly check out your webside. I know this is not a quick fix that is why I have been working with him for the last 11 years:-) I realize I have to restart him and I have started this process already by not riding him and do a lot of groundwork - but maybe I do it all wrong and therefore I will check out your recommended webside. Once again - thank you!!

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hello Everyone! I am sharing a discussion about this video and subscriber comments from one of my online academy students: www.taoofhorsemanship.com/. I think our discussion will help those of you, who are uncomfortable with my energy and how I deal with Zor, understand my approach in this video. In the end, the horse does not lie and will always tell you how they feel about you and what you are doing. At the end of this video, you see progress with Zor and you see him more connected to me and relaxed, trusting. That was the result I was looking for. So, for those of you upset about how I use the whip, please get out of your head and look at the situation objectively. You will see that Zor is NEVER afraid of the whip and that my purpose with how I use the whip is to break through to him and get his attention. Back to my conversation with Eva my student: Hi Caroline, thanks for your detailled reply and inspiring words! I appreciate sooo much, how much energy and time and thoughts you spend on this discussion forum. And yes, I am getting a lot out of it, checking through other students questions and your replies. I have a situation assesment / thinking question. I saw one of your youtube videos in which you worked with Zor at the woodline. A place where she is scared and paying attention to the woodline instead of on you. You made her walk around, turn direction, using the whip quite a bit. Somebody in the comments said that he didn't like it and referred to Klaus Ferdinand Hempfing Videos. Not using a whip at all. I watched that too. I have watched Hempfings Videos before I became your student :) Now - I see two very different situations here which are not comparable. In my eyes! Your horse was paying attention to the woodline and I think you needed a lot of energy to prevent that - as if you would say "ignore that, come back to me, pay attention to me". Your horse Zor was not nervous per se, yet spooked about that place - for no real reason other than habit. The situation KF Hempfing was in is, that the horse didn't pay any attention to his owner at all and was nervous in a gatter, totally ungrounded, all over the plac. Not spooked, but very nervous and ungrounded. So what he did is offering the horse a calm, relxed place. Of course not using a whip. Here is my thinking process in assessing a situation and I like to check if you agree. One of the main questions to asses a situation might be - what is missing here? A overall nervous horse - missing is groundedness. So, I am not using a whip for that but myself being relaxed and offering a save place. A spooked horse - missing is attention to me that nothing is wrong. So if the spookiness - outside atention - has a lot of energy, I need to put in a bit more energy to bring that attention back to me. So, I might use a whip. I think the person who didn't like the way you handled that situation might have confused the situations. Two different siutations. So, "what is missing here?" seems to be a good working question to assess situations. Would you say that I am on the right "thinking track"? Since there are never ever enough "how to .. " for every situation in life :))) I like to check my "thought processing". Warm regards Eva Hi Eva! You are welcome:) Great question and excellent awareness my approach with Zor in my free training video: "How to Train a Spooky and Unpredictable Horse, Part I." My approach to handling Zor is all about getting his attention and matching his intentional (focused) energy with the woods. There is NO way he is ready to connect with my quiet energy. He can't feel it right now because he is too concerned about what is in the woods. So, being as big as he is and working on getting him to focus on me is the first step to getting his mind and his trust. Trust is not about the whip either. He trusts me and how I use it and doesn't have any issues with whips. That's why I can get so big and loud with the whip. I have to literally scream at him with it to get his attention! What he doesn't trust is the woods and as long as he is overly preoccupied and spooking he is dangerous. While I too am a fan of Klaus Hempfling's work, I have never seen him handle a horse like Zor or explain in great detail why he does what he does. Most if not all of his videos are short (not long enough to show you the how or why) and are tailored to be marketing/promotional materials, not training materials. I am a marketing specialist (my former career and life before this) and I know how manipulative marketing and advertising can be. Klaus's videos are all about exciting his viewer with Iberian like horses and movement or draft like stallions rearing and each video is designed to capture only seconds at a time and it's done with careful purpose and precision - to show what they want you to buy into! That's another reason why I created the free training videos. To give my audience the reality of the situation as best I can in 20-40 minutes. And, it's not always easy, pretty nor does it makes sense to most in the beginning because most of what I do is very revolutionary and unconventional, not romantic and dreamy - not at first. There is NO way that is possible when you are rehabbing "most" horses. It can be crazy, dangerous, ugly, sad and a lot of hard work in the beginning. And, what you receive in the end makes it all worthwhile. But, most trainers only show the crazy (before) and sweet (after), they don't show you the stages in between where it isn't fun or pretty or easy to understand. If Zor was like my OTTB Lovey, in nature (temperament) I would have used a totally different approach and one that would have been more quiet and grounded. Why? Because that is what Lovey would have needed from me most and where she is easiest to connect with. Zor on the other hand is a very dominant personality, aggressive with other horses, bolts and can be dangerous not to mention he is 1,800lbs and 17.2hh of pure muscle and flight! Thanks again Eva for a great discussion!

[@zen-hq1wj]

Thank you. This is wonderful ❤️.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Maria! Awesome to hear! Please keep me posted on your progress and feel free to contact me with further questions: [e-mail].

[@Isabel-gj6nw]

"hes blinkin and thinkin" ❤️

[@DJ-nw5gy]

GREAT VIDEO!!! Thank you!!

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hey, I watched r video about how to train a spooky and unpredictable horse. Part 1. And it helped. But her is the problem I have a 9 year old mare and she does not have a spot that she is not unsure of. She just gets spooked by little sounds. Can u help me with this problem. And when she gets spooked she kind of jumps a little. Emma

[@kellylovejoy2169]

This has helped me today my new horse is scared of everything and he spooked span around and bucked me on the ribs which is so painful so I need to sort this out he’s terrified of the wind and that was what scares him today

[@rubymetalcat18]

Very educational and insightful video! Thanks a lot!

[@teresaedwards1591]

I'll try this for my Buddy and Buster my two opposite boys 🐎

[@Eweliiiina]

I really like your training with your horses! I have a friesian/ welsh cob cross and she is a very spooky and insecure little angel. I bought her this summer as a completely unhandled horse. We have already come a long way but she is very reactive and always uses flight to get away from things that spooks her. It would have been interesting to see how you work with a horse like her, that uses flight insted of freeze :)

[@HellavaLive]

I just found your channel. I love your videos. I had a mare that was very afraid of our woods. Finally we set up a trail cam it was coyotes. I could never trail ride her after that.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Hellava Live, welcome!! So happy you found us! I hope you will continue to watch our videos! If you would like to learn more about Caroline and her methods, check out our website at www.taoofhorsemanship.com/ Thanks Sabrina

[@misscalais3580]

I loved this video. I put it into practice with my mare as she is as dull as anything, but very explosive in worrying situations! It helped alot! Got results in 5 minutes...

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Miss Calais and Welcome! Thank you! I share more free videos and great articles on my Rider Horsemanship Facebook page facebook.com/RiderHorsemanship/. Please share my work with others so we can spread the word! 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

[@deniseelliott3986]

Love this! Thank you for your videos.

[@tatianaroveda]

I really would have liked to see him try all the through- you cut him off, and it looks as if you have deliberately scared him. I've retrained 100's of horses and started 3year olds and up-most of those horses had "people" problems already. I never wanted to create the fear you did in this video.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Tatina and Welcome! Could you explain, or show me, where I cut him off so I can understand your perspective? Like you my specialty is in foundation and rehabilitation. Zor was 4 years old when this was made. The approach I use, have used on thousands of horses, creates the ability for them to work through their fears/triggers, and eventually feel safe, trust me and the process and most of all learn how to self-regulate, self-sooth. I don't recommend this to anyone, not even my apprentices. It's a skill that is mostly intuitive, guttural, not to mention I use energy which takes time to learn how to engage and direct. You can't "see" energy but you can see how Zor responds to it. Sometimes is as strong as he, and aids in tuning him back into me and away from the scary woods and others quiet and waiting. I spent months hand walking him, grazing him and helping sensitize him to the woods. It was time to take it up and interrupt some really strong and dangerous habits he learned when he became unconfident, such as running over handlers, breaking stall doors, bolting. With that being said, I don't expect most people to see all that is going on, the subtle nuances of Zor's thoughts and changing emotions or how I use my energy to try and get him to connect and ground, feel safe. In the end, the horse never lies. His positive changes and progression tells me (us) he understands, is releasing, figuring things out and changing.

[@saarlooswolfhund6237]

@Tatjana:exactly. This abusive bullshit here has nothing to do with solid Horsemanship. She scares horses into learned Helplessness. That's all. Her fans are as incompetent as her.

[@samscorgie3484]

This horse behaves JUST like mine, great video, you are such a fantastic horsewoman and trainer!!! Wish I had seen this before I went to the barn this morning because today was one of his spooky days where his attention was everywhere but on me most of the time. ^__^ In your opinion and experience, when you work with a horse like this regularly, is this a behaviour that can and does go away almost completely? And if it does, does it only 'go away' with the human they have built up that trust with? or with most humans?

[@rosalindpaterson2043]

An inspiration; I am really enjoying your insights

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

I'm so glad!

[@tiffshew6337]

Great video!!

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Thanks All Things Equestrian! You should see him today! I've posted a few new trail riding videos of him from March 2022 on my channel.

[@Abeguzman]

You are amazing!!!

[@Lascajet1]

Great ideas and concepts, very clear instructins. Working with the horse to created and establish leadership. A rope halter should not be down on the horses' nose where it will cut off his air. Too many people do not keep the rope halter sufficiently tightened.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Randy Hurt Thanks Randy! Yes, I couldn't agree more about fitting the halter correctly. The rope halters were designed with knots and the knots create pressure points. In order for them, the knots, to work correctly the knots have to be aligned correctly. The knots across the nose need to be lined up along the fleshy part of the nose, which is the middle of the nose (from eyes to nostrils). Thanks for helping me explain the purpose of the rope halter and it's position! Warmly, Caroline

[@luispegado3250]

Hello Caroline And thank you for sharing. i'm trying to prepare my lovely mare to ride bitless and so i try to do a lot of desensitizing on the ground. I guess i have to build up my confidence level alongside my horse since i'm new to the horse world and this is my first horse ever. What i0ve seen on this video really helps me understand better the way i have and want to follow but my horse has only one eye and i would love to ear how you would adapt the confidence build-up exercises with this limitation in mind. Have a wonderful day.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Luis 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 [e-mail]. XO, Sabrina

[@luispegado3250]

@@TaoofHorsemanship Thank you, Sabrina, i do understand Caroline does not have time to spare. it's ok. I would gladly access the online courses since the region i live in has a certain kind of horse riders whose advices tend to lean towards education by force, a method feel is wrong and so "other" knowledge is scarce. Sadly i cannot afford to join in since unemployment gives me time to work the horse but limits greatly the available funds. Anyway, no worries, i appreciate your answer and wish you the best.

[@tiffanygnaly]

Hey Caroline! Is the approach different if my horse actually have experienced something with what they're triggered by? Like an electric fence? :)

[@JuJu-fn2hm]

Hi Caroline, where can i purchase a long lead rope like the style you use in change of direction for building trust. The only type I can find are 3m long which are too short. Thanks

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi JuJu! I purchase my rope halters and leads from hand crafted jewel.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Emma and Welcome! Sounds like your horse is very unconfident, unsure and anxious deep down. If you follow my method it will help you re-pattern, re-balance and re-set your spooky mare so she will become a more confident, connected and trusting horse. I wish I could give you written advice on how to turn your horse around and in the end it's just not that easy. It takes tremendous awareness, experience and skill to change the behavior of challenging and often times dangerous horses. There is no "How to" and there shouldn't be. What I have given in my "How to train a spooky and unpredictable" free training video is an example of how to handle a horse "like" Zor. While most spooky and unconfident horses exhibit similar behaviors and react similarly to situations like him, each situation is different and the interaction (dialogue) between you and your horse is also going to be unique - no two people handle the same horse the same way nor do they see (interpret/perceive) the situation at hand the same way either. What you need is a trainer like myself working with you both and helping you better understand your mare, who she is, why she reacts and giving you the tools needed to change the outcome and behavior. I offer long distance training and coaching riderhorsemanship.com/index.php/long-distance-coaching/ and a huge and intensive educational DVD system. While my "How to train a spooky and unpredictable" free training videos give you certain areas to work on (and these areas apply to all horses suffering from a lack of confidence) you will find a step-by-step guide to developing horses (and re-starting challenging horses) in my DVD collection. The following link takes you to my DVD collection riderhorsemanship.com/index.php/product-category/dvds-2/ and shows you were to begin as well as guides you to which Problem Solving Strategy DVD would work best in your situation riderhorsemanship.com/index.php/product/problem-solving-strategies-series-bundle-dvds-1-6/. Please revisit my "How to train a spooky and unpredictable" free training videos, as well as my youtube channel: kzbin.info. My videos are jammed packed with tons of information, education and answers. Often they can be overload so I advise my students to revisit the videos often and break them down so you can begin implementing what you learn, little by little. The more you visit, the more you will see and continue to learn. I hope this has helped and I look forward to staying in touch! Warmly, Caroline

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Caroline, I just watched your KZbin Video on How to train a spooky and unpredictable horse. I have a 14 year old Arab Gelding with a horrific abusive past. We trail ride often. While he has gotten much better over the 2 years that I've owned him, there is always the potential for the spook at nothing and the bolt. You video gave me some great tools to work with him, but I have a question.. When we are on trail rides with others and he spooks and I can just "feel" the potential bolt coming. Is it wrong for him to get out of the saddle and work him?? Many people have told me that by me gettting out of the saddle, that is letting him know that he is winning and that I should ride it out. I can just feel it in my gut that if I stay on him, one of us or both of us could get seriously hurt. I just want to do what is right for my horse. I would really appreciate your opinion on this .. Do I get off and work him?? Or Is he "winning" if I do?? Thanks so very much for your time, Lisa

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Lisa, This is a great question! First I'd like to address the ignorant recommendations from the folks that advise you to stay on and ride when one you are afraid and second when you know the potential danger of your horse's actions. Safety for you and your horse comes first, always. And kudos to you for listening to your heart and gut on this and coming to me with your question and validation. I would never recommend staying on when a horse that is frightened is thinking about bolting. I would immediately get off and begin working them through their trigger so that they get out of their right brain (reactionary prey mode) and into their thinking and connecting left brain (thinking, cognitive side). The exercise that I recommend is called Half Circle. It involves moving my horse back and forth, from left to right and in a trot, not a canter. If he has to canter, let him and make sure he can stop and pause for many seconds until you ask for the other direction. Eventually he will slow down. I would be be specific about the gait as you want to begin offering your horse a framework from which you will begin guiding him. If he is just running around you, like a typical lunge pattern, he will continue to escalate (build up more speed and frenzy) or maintain the level of adrenaline that has caused him to react dangerously to begin with. The key here in making the mental and emotional change for him is in the careful guidance you give while asking him to move to the left of you at a trot and then stop, pausing (if you can) for 3 or longer seconds before you ask him to trot to the right of you and stop. By doing this you are allowing him to stop and slow down (begin decompressing, relaxing), refocus on you (build trust) and engage his left, thinking side of his brain. You are also helping him replace adrenaline (self preservation mode for fight, flight) with endorphins, the calming hormone. Right now the most important part of training your horse is re-patterning him meaning you are changing his habit of exploding with connecting to you for guidance = leadership and using his thinking side of his brain. Now, this exercise is for when you are out and trail riding. There is still much work to do at home in a pasture or arena. You still need to work on his emotional thresholds and develop more confidence in you as a leader as well as more emotional agility in your horse. I recommend working on your walk/trot/canter transitions in an arena or small pasture. Transition work will help you develop control with your horse. You want him to listen to you and obey you not push through you when you ask to slow down or stop or escalate into a buck or bolt when you ask for more speed. In order to achieve this, everything needs to be done slowly...3 strides of working walk and ease into 3 strides of slow trot back down to 3 strides of working walk to halt and pause for 3+ seconds and back up 3 steps and pause again. You literally have to reprogram your horse:) Make sure to praise him, love on him, when he does well and is trying and especially when you stop. This will help motivate him to try harder to please and think about stopping when he is unsure. I hope that helps. Please keep me posted! Warmly, Caroline

[@moniqueprince7845]

Thank you this too!!!😊

[@robynstones837]

Hi Caroline, I live in Australia and many of our trainers are coming round to this way of training. It is such a pleasure to watch someone use a horse that doesn't do everything first time but perseverance prevails! I own an off the track TB gelding who is 6rs old and has had some natural horsemanship on the ground. I want to thank you for sharing this video as I have been having issues with spooking whilst out trail riding. My question is how does this ground work transfer to ridden work? I understand how to get my guys attention but how do you do this under saddle to offer them reassurance - is it the voice? As they can't see you when you are riding, I'm not sure how this trust transfers - you may have done another video since this one but I haven't found it yet, I totally came across this video by accident but will be following you in the future for sure! Many thanks for your time Robyn

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Robyn Stones Hi Robyn! Great question! Ground work is so necessary to developing the mindset of the horse. The purpose of the ground work is to stimulate the horses left brain, their thinking brain. Horses are prey animals and rely on their right brain, their senses, to survive. When in a heightened and fearful state they use adrenaline and this supports their need for fight or flight. When working through ground work exercises you begin to get the horse to think vs react, thus use their left cognitive side of their brain. You also help them to refocus on you which builds trust, confidence and leadership. All of these qualities develop a horse's mind and help them to stay connected to you during stressful times.If you practice the exercises with the intention and purpose of helping your horse stay connected to you, you will easily be able to transfer this way of working together, this connection and trust to riding. I'm not saying that your horse won't trigger in the saddle.because if their riding experience has been more negative than positive, they will. And, you will be safer because he trusts you and will look to you for guidance. It will take time and lots of practice and before you know it, you will have developed a new mindset, pattern, way of perceiving in your horse. Re your question about horses not seeing us when we are riding, you are correct. We sit in their blind spot AND if you work with my method of intention and energy they will FEEL you always and seek you out. Many of my youtube videos show my horses picking me up at the mounting block without asking and turning their eye often to see me, connect to me, while riding. Please check out my other videos and I sell my educational DVD's all over the World! www.riderhorsemanship.com. I look forward to keeping in touch! Warmly, Caroline

[@cambriehanks6542]

I got a pony for Christmas when I was about 4 or 5 and I'm 11 now. I live in Maryland he she lived in Virginia I recently moved her up to Maryland with me and she is very aware to her surroundings and every time I take my other horse Sky out she freaks out, tears the fence down and runs of and I can't ride my other horse with out her freaking out and then Sky freaks out too. I try and take them for walks everyday to let them explore the new place to get used to it but she always side steps and has even dragged my aunt across the field before. I'm not sure what do do with her I can't do anything with out her having to be with my other horse and she has escaped 4 times now. PLEASE HELP ME 😰 I don't wanna have to sell her 😓😓

[@44099]

I have a 29 yr old register Quarter horse gelding who’s been highly trained and used in for 4-H for most of his younger years. I took him in 5 years ago because no one wanted him and his senior ailments that developed. I’ve never rode him. We have put kids on him and lead him around but that’s been it. We’ve always used our mare who recently passed away to actually ride. This gelding is now alone and I’m seeing what I call his “jerk” come out full force. My question is can a horse just be a complete JERK, and never gain respect again? He has shown the spookiness of this horse, just walking him around the property and trails. Just today as I was attempting to brush him out (winter coat) he made the sound of a mare in heat and jerked away as if he wanted to kick me but didn’t. It stunned this 62 yr old woman and I immediately put him in the round pen to lunge out his attitude. I’m now not so sure he’s safe to even brush out. I don’t have the nerves anymore to work with such a horse. I believe my mare that passed away spoiled me. I could walk under her, the small grandkids could do anything with her. She’d had guns shot off her back but this guy is extremely temperamental! Any suggestions?

[@Lisa_GalCali]

You mentioned that sometimes they will try to eat when they’re nervous, but then got in a new subject. What do you do when they put their head down to get a bite of something while nervous.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Lisa and Welcome! In order to change unwanted, unhealthy, behavior you need to first figure out what causes it. If you don't fix the cause you'll never fix the unwanted behavior. Horses that are anxious have a need that isn't being met. Fix the need and the behavior goes away. If all you do is correct the symptom, nervous eating, you will forever be correcting. In the end, horses are like people. Satisfy the emotional need and the bad behavior goes away.

[@nicholasjames1101]

Really enjoyable and insightful. Thanks.

[@meganpahl3612]

I wonder if you could help me. I have a flighty arab mare who came to me extremely spolied and although she is a very sweet girl, she gets spooky about things she is very accustomed to be around. The wind, the same birds and livestock she lives by ect but a tractor or a truck screaming by unexpectedly will not make her bat an eye. I have learned that she can only be worked with she not in heat. She gets very snotty and nippy when in heat. Because her demeanor is JUST like the horse you showed here, is there any suggestions you have for me to basically redirect these heat behaviors as well just as we do with the anxieties in her surroundings?

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Megan and Welcome! I can definitely help you and your lovely Arab mare. When horses react they are in their sympathetic nervous system, their self-preservation modes of freeze, fight and flight. The key is getting them back into their parasympathetic nervous system so they can feel safe, relax, connect to us and learn. I teach this in my online courses and in person. In regards to your mare acting differently when she is in heat, she is a female and like us mares are individuals who experience different menstrual cycles. I feel sorry for her mood swings and physical signs of pain and discomfort. You can talk to your vet about this and they can prescribe a hormone balancer. If you would like to discuss how my method can help please email me [e-mail].

[@angelinagoodwin208]

You are an amazing trainer, your just like my trainer

[@alisonbell-irving5622]

Hi Caroline, I've just recently found your website and started watching your videos. I am in awe! I have a 16.3hh paint gelding who I moved to a great boarding facility 8 months ago. I moved him because there is an indoor arena and I want to be able to ride throughout the winter months. My problem is that he absolutely hates the arena and is obsessed with the gate to the point that it is virtually impossible to keep his focus and do any work. He constantly either looks toward, or tries to move toward it and if anybody/horse goes near it he throws a fit and tries to bolt there if he thinks the gate is about to open. We have had lessons and done clinics in other indoor arenas and it's never been a problem before. I've done lots of figure 8's and circles near that end slowing down and relaxing as we move away, but we seem to go back to square one each time. If you have any exercises that might help either under saddle or on the ground, I'd be very grateful. Thanks, Alison

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

+Alison Bell-Irving B-I Hi Alison and Welcome! Sounds like your horse is either not comfortable in the new arena or has developed a bit of a bratty attitude towards the work? Either way my work will help you with this. I would need to observe you and your horse to make an accurate assessment of what's going on and where to direct you both in my work. I offer long distance coaching services so students from around the World can work with me riderhorsemanship.com/index.php/long-distance-coaching/. If this does not interest you at this time, here is how I think and another recommendation. Should any horse of mine have issues with something it tells me our foundation is not strong and we need to back track meaning go back to both ground and riding exercises to see where we can strengthen our relationship and partnership. The relationship is about trust and confidence and the partnership is about respect and leadership (clarity). When you have a strong, solid, foundation you and your horse can go anywhere and learn anything without regressing or having challenges. This is what I refer to as developing the mindset of our horse where trust, respect, leadership and partnership flourish while you continue to learn new things and explore new places together. The purpose of groundwork is many with a focus on developing and strengthening the relationship and partnership between both. I have a complete method to training, from beginning - developing the foundation to high school movements (classical dressage). I have a large DVD collection that will assist in helping you learn at home. The following link will take you to my website and show you my DVD collection/series and where to begin riderhorsemanship.com/index.php/dvd-information-where-to-begin/. The first DVD is Discovering the Spirituality of Horsemanship is about the relationship and where to begin. This is how I develop both my students and horses: riderhorsemanship.com/index.php/product/discovering-the-spirituality-of-horsemanship/. If you need more assistance please don''t hesitate to contact me or my business manager, Jen, [e-mail]. Warmly, Caroline

[@sonseere10]

Sounds like the horse does not view you as the leader. That must be established first.

[@creativejumper3011]

I'm training a green Arab gelding and I need some tips. He hates lung lines and bucks on his left side when using one. Recently, when I asked him to change directions from his right side to his left, he started bucking and then ran into the open paddock. It would be great if I could get some training tips!

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi FoxLegend17! Arabs can be very sensitive and reactive by nature and breed. I would slow your requests down and slow your horse down.I would begin by asking your horse to walk. This will be the toughest part as it asks for discipline. You may only get a couple of steps before your horse speeds up or escalates. Watch this video again and you will see how I "interrupt" the behavior and shut the horse down and to a halt. I will shake on the lead rope hard enough for the knot or clip to make contact with the horse's chin and as many times, repetitively, until he/she stops and looks at me. This is SO important because when the horse looks at you they are connected and asking a question. You will wait 20 seconds, asking the horse (and reinforcing if necessary by shaking the rope and/or tugging hard) to stand. ONLY when the horse is ready to stand and relax will you ask for the walk again. You will do this as many times as needed and until your horse can walk with energy and relaxation 3 revolutions around you. DO NOT change direction until you can ask for 3 revolutions 3 times. This may take an hour or 3 days. The purpose is to change your horse's perception of running, escalating and bucking. You are developing the correct mindset for training now: attention/focus, discipline/obedience and relaxation. Keep me posted! Caroline

[@creativejumper3011]

Thank you!

[@nyancat1341]

Well I have another question to ask you then. My mare will spook or start to back up if try to walk to her rear end. How do I stop her from turning?

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Nyan! Sounds like your mare needs a total transformation and over-haul. She is extremely distrustful and over reactive. Again, there is no one fix or answer to your question. I can recommend where to begin and that is with horsemanship practices, exercises, that are designed to build rapport, trust and relationship between the two of you. Once your mare accepts you as a friend she will begin to trust you, making training (introducing new ideas, exercises, experiences) easier. Starting here will help! Warmly, Caroline

[@nyancat1341]

Caroline Rider thanks so much Caroline!!!

[@Khakable]

This vdo is great for me,understand more.Thanks for sharing.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

That's great Khak! Please feel free to contact me with any questions regarding both my approach and the techniques I use. Caroline

[@laciemartin7512]

i need some help with my horse she rides ok but she never listens to me when I'm in the saddle

[@siriusxp4770]

Hello dear Caroline, I would like to ask you one thing, because your big experience, what you would do if you have one horse which one is outside always afraid about dogs who are shouting and running around. I think my horse had once maybe one accident with dogs by being attacked. 🙄 How to handle such problem? Do you maybe have one idea? I thank you a lot for help. Many many greetings from France Susan

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Susan and Welcome! Most often when our horses have extreme reactions to things it's because of a bad experience. Now if your horse is reactive and super sensitive to many things, like my horse Zor was in this video, it is partly his nature, who he is and his learned behavior of coping. In either case, developing stronger levels of trust and confidence through specific training is the cure. My MasteryMembership can help you! Please check out my MasteryMembership Online Training Program for People and Horses www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/mastery-membership-regular

[@firefly_the_rescue9308]

How do I do this with a horse that is fearful of cars? Also, my horse is super excited around the trails and doesn’t stop walking very fast and pulling me when I walk her along the trails. She looks around and doesn’t look at me, always pushing into me

[@danielthomas6739]

I like her style

[@lakota123max]

awesome advice I love ur videos=)

[@BumperRitchie]

This is so helpful! Thank you. My horse is nearly two, I’ve been doing lots of groundwork with her and after just two weeks of owning her we are developing a good bond. My issue is, that when I’m leading her and she is very scared/worried by something she tends to spin around me in a very tight circle. How do I get her to respect my space a little more when she is frightened? She is very respectful when she isn’t in flight mode but it goes out the window when something really scares her. I’ve used the lead rope technique which works a treat but haven’t trained her with a whip at all yet. Any help gratefully received! Thank you, Hannah UK

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Miss B and Welcome. That is a great question and I promise you Caroline can and will help you. Please email her directly at [e-mail]. Thank you Sabrina

[@BumperRitchie]

Brilliant! Thank you

[@weronikabobotek2400]

Love it!!

[@loveislove8566]

I have a horse that I ride and he was abused years ago, but he is very spooky and will blow up every now and then at the slightest things, even things he’s experienced times again. He is fine with cars and big vans etc but anything small like a bag or a wheelbarrow or even people he is terrified of. It took me months just to gain his trust and I’m still working at it. I’m not sure what to do about this or how to help him at the moment but I am not going to give up on him. Any tips?

[@zarahmatters010]

My 8 year old Appaloosa mare is spooky of everything ever since she had a foal I have fell off 3 times on 1 ride just from her spooking. I don’t feel safe on her back because she feels like she’s going to run off with me. So to try and stop her I tried to back her up into the area where she spooks most and it got her to relax but she still isn’t ready for anything.

[@PersonalTriumph2022]

How do you have the guts to deal with an anxious horse of that size ? I have a TB and although I can redirect him , I do end up chickening out sometimes. I never let him go without working him but let’s say I meant to take him to a certain part of the farm and he started getting anxious , I work him where he has not yet exploded and then retreat…so it’s not completely chickening out but I haven’t worked up the courage to work him where he would potentially freak out the most . I am a newbie, just 9 months into owning my horse.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Naciye and Welcome! It's not guts, rather experience that builds confidence and gives me many tools to use in my tool chest. I'd also been working with him enough to establish some level of connection and respect for my space. I don't recommend being this close to a horse you don't trust, especially one that is known to run people down like this horse in this video. My advice is learn how to develop yourself and your skills first before you tackle a horse that could potentially hurt you.

[@alexiswilliams5719]

Thank you so much! I was trying to find some videos on this type of situation, for my friends horse. He is amazing in the arena, but he spooks on the trail and anything that he is not comfortable with. Even the smallest sound spooks him. If you could answer a little bit more on how to work with him that would be great. Thanks again!

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

+Alexis Williams Hi Alexis and Welcome! There is no one answer or easy process for helping spooky horses become confident and safe. It takes time to develop the trust in the relationship and partnership necessary for the horse to trust and feel safe with their rider. The video covers the areas important to gaining a horse's trust, respect as well as developing their confidence in you as a leader and partner. There are specific exercises in the video to help get your spooky, unconfident horse's attention and focus. There is a Part II to this video that reviews and talks about how the ground work aids in developing a more confident and trustworthy horse for riding. If you have not visited all of my free training videos please do. The work in each will give you the answers you seek: kzbin.info/aero/PL1UMI_k13fYWO_amtAh_aCljfta7T_5XI Please keep me posted on your friend's progress! Warmly, Caroline

[@katieheisey7797]

Yes I no it's going to be hard to retrain him and you can't catch him in a feild but for the past few days he will run in circles around you And then walk towards you after alittle because he wants the grain I have lol. But then I grab him and start petting him a little bit. and ive been working on making his flex his head because he always has it high in the air but he listened great with it And lowers his head half way for me.my only issue right now is that when you walk in the stall and walk towards him he wants to try and kick you

[@rosalindpaterson2043]

Impressive: thank you:)

[@age3806]

Hello Caroline! What would you do if your horse runs through the whip or everything in his way? My mare displays outside the stable a potentially very dangerous "habbit": It starts like Thor in the video but she gets really tight until she cuts your way, make her neck so tigh no bending is possible and immediately starts galopping. She does it with everyone. It also happens when there is another horse with us as she doesn't trust him neither. We do a lot of groundwork every single day and I would say we are very close. She loves to get scratching, massages and follows me everywhere I go in the riding hall. But in this situation, she is so triggered that she does not even seem to see me. She totally shuts down and explode. If only I could make her stop one second to make her think. She used to show this kind of behaviour for everything, but every time I could make her stop and think, she got over it. Every new impression is first a big "No", but than she can be very curious and brave.

[@age3806]

She shows this behaviour since the first day I got here two years ago. I found a way to "overcome" it for a couple of days but than it starts all over again: I go outside with her step by step and walk back before she becomes non-responsive. She always lick and chew on the way back. We can than go outside every day for a walk without problems for about 2 or 3 weeks. But then suddenly there is a trigger I don't even recognize and she "forgets" all the good experiences we have made. It is not a vehicle, or people or animals. When it happens, I can see nothing but open space. I can not tell you how it would be riding, because I can not ride.

[@gcrranch439]

We are really enjoying your videos. This will help us with our Arabians who are spooky and flighty all the time. Finding out how to calm them down is going to make them safer for our young daughters to ride. Hopefully we will make it outside the corral riding lol. Don’t trust them not To bolt off with the girls.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hello Cheryl and Welcome! Great to hear how well my work resonates with you and is working for you! This video is not how I would handle an Arabian or a flighty, overly sensitive and reactive horse. While the horse in this video, Zor, is spooking and I am showing you how I help him learn to trust me while building his confidence he has had a lot of training with me prior to this video. Training to get him to this place - the scariest place. By nature this horse is not a reactive horse. His spooks are not that big except for the wooded area. We trail ride and such and he does not bolt on the trail. If he did I would not be able to stop him. However, near this woodline, he is at his worst. So please don't use this video as a teaching video, not at your horse's stage of education. I can help you, show you how to help them, step-by-step and it's gonna take time and learning. The free training videos that I offer on my youtube channel are just the beginning! Should you want to learn more about my method - the level of personal development, spiritual transformation, deep and rewarding relationship you achieve with your horse during training as well as developing the ride of your dreams, check out my Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy Training Courses for People and Horses. Here is the commercial for the Academy: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m2O3d2Z5hbpkhMU You can learn more about the Academy, details of courses provided and costs here: www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/taomethodcourse 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

[@gcrranch439]

Thank you! We have been taught all the wrong ways and are now having to releases them. It’s funny how when your young you pretty much just take anyone’s advice just because they have all this fancy gear and board in a fancy place. You mentioned you are older now and do not want to fall off. Me either and safety is my first priority now that I’m older and just having the girls build a bind and trusting relationship with the horses as well as us. They are lifelong pets and companions. Loving your awesome training and handling methods.

[@229JANICE]

I´ve noticed, he calms down very quickly when he gets the Goodboy reward, just as my horse does. Sometimes when I get too pushy on him, he gets stiff, once I tell him Goodboy, he gets in a second, relaxed. he is like addicted to be rewarded, he gotta know he is doing right, then everything is absolutely ok. :)

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

JanaSarlota V. Hi Jana and Welcome! Yes, horses respond extremely well to positive rewards such as the loving, calm tonal quality of your voice. If the horse is too reactive though, stuck in their prey mentality of self preservation, it becomes extremely difficult for them to hear or feel anything soft and subtle from us. This is because they do not feel emotionally safe or comfortable. They do not see us a leader thus they remain on hyper alert. This is where making break throughs and getting through to them is so important and we can't do it with a gentle voice, not at first. They won't hear us. Instead we must "match" their energy with the same intensity and get them moving, focusing on us and thinking - working through their emotional thresholds until they connect with us and feel safe again. We accomplish this by getting them to work through specific exercises that ask them to mentally engage, problem solve, think. When Zor is up and frantic - which is dangerous because he wants to be on top of me and could potentially run me down, I ask him to move through specific exercises I have developed to help engage his left brain and get him not only focused on me but thinking (not reacting). The more he pushes through me, stays in his right, reactive side of his brain, the louder and bigger I become, enough until he sees me and looks at me. When he focuses back on me I reward him with "good boy". He is able to relax enough to see me and connect with me at that moment. I will continue to create those opportunities for him to check back in, focus on me until he becomes more relaxed and engaged. When he does, I know he is feeling safe and comfortable with me, thus seeking out my leadership. Trust, respect for my space and confidence in my leadership are developed during this process. Working with Zor like this isn't the only answer to developing him into a confident, controlled horse. Another area that helps unconfident, spooky horses is working through transitions. Transitions are like gears and are the speeds within each gait: slow, medium and fast. I start all horses on the ground, through my lunging method first and work until we can walk, trot and canter online with mind-body connection, emotional and physical control. I then take this mindset into the riding and work my horses through patterns that build more discipline, trust, leadership and partnership. These exercises help develop the mindset needed for trail riding safely and in partnership. Thanks and I look forward to keeping in touch. Warmly, Caroline

[@kirstinetermansen7234]

She look familier There very few wild horses most been neglected, beaten, Drugged, so care time and understanding horses Are not into human psychology or wild cowboy boots

[@shevhunter986]

What are your thoughts on allowing them to graze when hacking out to establish whether they can relax? Ie when you are riding them?

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Shev and Welcome! Yes, I always allow and encourage my horses to graze, and rest, when hacking out on a trail. I will either stay on them and create a cue that tells them it's ok to eat or get off and allow them to graze. This experience creates a positive association for the horse as well as provides enjoyment and bonding time with you and others. For some horses though it's impossible to stop and eat which is a sign they are too stressed and uncomfortable. When this happens, when I see the horse getting too excited, I will dismount and offer it grass or walk with it for a while.

[@shevhunter986]

Tao of Horsemanship thank you so much - it’s very refreshing to hear this as it always seems a bit frowned upon by a lot of people but feels totally natural in encouraging relaxation - I shall feel confident in carrying on with this x

[@Morgzz23]

do you have a email or something that we can talk on? I bought a spooky draft horse and need some help

[@jeanpinmt1527]

I'm curious how to apply this when working with a traumatized equine who is scared of me? I have a small mule for the past 9 months and cannot get close to her without her going into freeze response. It's been very difficult to find any resources for this situation.

[@TaoofHorsemanship]

Hi Jean and Welcome! You can't. This video is about working with a spooky horse that is dangerous which is different from a horse that can't bond with humans or connect in relationship. The horse in this video is mine and we spent a year developing our bond and relationship. Relationship should always come before training and connection before mechanics. You need to work on bonding with her first and learning how to create a safe space for her to feel safe. Then you bring in the rehab work. I offer all of this in my big Mastery Relationship, Ground and Riding Foundation Program. I was offering a 50% sale on my big program www.taoofhorsemanship.com/masterymembership. If you're interested in the sale price please email me [e-mail].

[@jeanpinmt1527]

@@TaoofHorsemanship thank you for spelling that out, it's a big help. That's the approach I'm coming to as forcing anything didn't result in any learning. I'll check into your program, thanks

[@arabiansarelifex9585]

Hello, how often should this be done? I am just restarting mine after many years, thanks ,

[@cjjohnson5311]

its a good video but that rope halter is sitting on the most sensitive part of the nose that can be hurt if pulled to hard. Is there a reason the halter is so low on the face?

[@_veronica_r]

It just slipped down. If you watched at the begining, you can see that it's in the normal place. She doesn't ride with it like that, it was just an accident. Hope this helps!

[@tarekmohamed5910]

This train before riding and for what time