P1 - Breaking your own horse to harness - retraining a horse that bolted pulling a tyre.

[@MajaMauschen]

"Come back my darling, come back my baby boy, come back my sweetheart, come back my sugar plum....... " Put a smile on my face!

[@lilliegleeson3520]

I love the way you call him baby boy

[@nampajinpa]

I love that you're so gentle and kind with him. It's the only way. I wish everyone understood that. Obviously they need discipline but I see people who gets their kicks out of bullying horses. Of course they get nowhere. Thank you.

[@shishkebab5306]

Barry I love the way you are around the horses its great to watch. I have a 16 yr old cob who through more luck than judgement rides and drives. He is the sweetest natured old fella you could wish for. I bought him at 5 months so we have a long standing relationship. I had no idea about driving but went ahead and bought myself a trap and harness anyway. His entire training was me long reining him whilst dragging the trap behind him, he made no fuss so I attached him and we have never looked back. I totally agree with your view on the bit and stopping and I have been riding driving him bitless now for approx 18 months. With no problems at all. I am learning so much from watching your videos, thank you. By the way my boy is entire as well.

[@kss123]

Barry Hooks, you have ice water in your veins! THAT is why you are an amazing horse trainer and also why the horses you work with see you as their herd leader and have amazing trust in you. What you have cannot be replicated in most people. You do not get worked up, nervous or unduly upset and the horses respect and learn from that. You truly are gifted. It is a pleasure to watch you at work. Thank you for sharing your videos.

[@lilbabypyro]

you speak so sweetly to your horses.

[@jeanviarengo231]

you know - I go back and watch your videos, and those of the handful of trainers who I really can see the reason for their methods, and the positiveness in their voices and treatment of the animals, and learn more every time - 40 years of riding and training and I still learn.... thank you - even if its just a bit, your videos and clear explanations do teach. and agree - "natural horsemanship" or what ever you want to call it - nothing replaces excellent understanding of the animal and excellent direction.

[@dawnaustin4556]

I love all your work and the terms of endearment you use. Specially the sugar plum part. He’s doing well despite the circumstances.

[@barryhook2]

The problem is there isn't any one single "right method". The approach we used with this horse might be entirely different to the approach we would use with a mare like yours. This is why we don't show the "method" - because it might be entirely unsuitable for another horse. Many books have been written about how to break horses, but every one is an individual. The A-Z method may work for some horses but it doesn't work for every horse and when it goes wrong nobody tells you what to do then.

[@Equinebovine123]

Love the way this chap speaks to the horses. He is awesome.

[@woodfinn]

"try and see the world thru their eyes" ---- TOTALLY agreed

[@tasharch]

"try and see the world through their eyes". Barry, that's all Natural Horsemanship is.

[@jeanviarengo231]

It is what good horsemanship is..... I'm not against "natural horsemanship" just stating that good horsemanship is nothing less, and what quite honestly endears me to this man and his methods

[@comesahorseman]

@@jeanviarengo231 😊 One of my father's favorite expressions was this: in order to properly train a horse you first have to know more than the horse. Part of this is being able to see things thru the horses eyes.

[@Kizron_Kizronson]

I swear that horse gave the tyre a couple of extra stomps when he could, as if to say "Yeah tyre, not so tough now are ya!?" The revenge must have been sweet for him.

[@equitime77]

The look on the horses face when you told him off for moving was very funny

[@katie4121]

I wish there were more trainers like you in the world Please come to Australia! :-)

[@kimwhaitiri6795]

Yes and New Zealand 🙂

[@laraloo3475]

First to germany ;)

[@Heavens-Humanaterian-Army]

Yes I'd love him to come to Australia 🇦🇺

[@rickyrobertson8064]

A horse is blessed to have this man around.

[@murphyshsu]

You did this horse a big favor by training him to tolerate all this. I hope he is doing well for his owner.

[@barryhook2]

Some people would think nothing of confining horses on a modern horse walker with electrified panels/barbed wire behind them to force them to move, or tie them up with tight side reins on a metal bit/hang on their mouths while long-reining; in our opinion that is not kind training either, but the basic principles of using a horse walker/side reins/long reining are good when done properly. As you say, building trust (not only in the horse itself, but trust in the driver) is crucial.

[@sherylpochin9336]

Love the comments about "natural horsemanship" I was confused when they were saying they do natural horsmanship and in the next breath they have a restriction halter on the horse and using a whip!!! I have done correct natural horsemanship which is NO WHIPS;SPURS;GADGETS OF ANY KIND. I do discipline but not using violence. So nice to see someone who also uses correct natural horsemanship,true trust and partnership. All you parelli converts have been duped,all you are training is fear.

[@UncensoredFORREAL]

Your one of my Favorite trainers. Thank you so much for making these videos!

[@pajamagramma4101]

You are totally a man after my on heart .... you are so sweet to these animals. We need more trainers like you in the world.

[@barryhook2]

Sadly its always the horse that ends up suffering (as in this case, bolting with a tyre) whereas with the right training approach for this particular horse the tyre is no longer a cause for fear. We have been offered a lot of money to make a "step by step guide to breaking" video/book, but we encounter so many horses that have been messed up due to people trying to do things by the book or by following rigid training plans - we believe you cannot write books/make films about how to break horses.

[@MadeleneStJohn]

I know this is a 2013 video, but I have to say I really enjoy watching your videos and learning how to train my pony. I really appreciate what you do. Thank you.

[@barryhook2]

You're welcome Brighid!

[@crazyequestrians5083]

your so nice to your horse its lovley

[@hermythewormy]

really inspiring to see someone who cares so much for the horses welfare and doesn't just bully them into submission.

[@michelleb5453]

Thankyou for treating animals with respect. You obviously do a fantastic job with them. I need to train my 7 cows like this.

[@joannasott5675]

I reckon the horses mirror your calmness Barry...they take refuge in your stillness..:)

[@silvertip3015]

I am hoping to one day get a horse :D but the only horses I have been around were riding stable horses ,thank you for teaching me how to work with a horse

[@RadioRoxx.FM_90.1FM]

I has seen this video as sugestion. I read the title, clicked in it hit pause than red the descrition. Sir, You made me to subscribe your channel, even before seing the video. I feel I have to learn a lot from You.

[@janinehiggins1507]

Very very true alot of people think they know more than they do . Like you I've been round horses all my life and I do what I think is right in a calm non stressful way with plenty of time no rush . Great video thank you 🇬🇧☮️👍❣️

[@barryhook2]

Calm and give them plenty of time - definitely a good philosophy, Janine!

[@janinehiggins1507]

Thank you and like you I've had some difficult ones.

[@remedyfarm]

You should see "George training a horse to drive single". It illustrates some folks' love for ropes and restraints....not a "method" I'd think would create a reliable horse, but not unusual for the type of person who would use check reins and martingales to "hold" a horse where they want 'im. I'm glad there is someone like you who takes the time to show that training is common sense used with voice, the "time it takes", and consistency, all while building trust one step at a time.

[@Equinebovine123]

You're adorable. You're so so good with your horses. Love how you handle them and talk to them.

[@Waqulah]

how wonderful and amazing. I would love to see this process of how he went from when he came spooked to how he is now. just to see the process. I had no idea you could get so precise with long reins and so few vocal commands. I am only now interested in a working horse. I have just received a horse, my therapy horse who is standardbred. she wants to work and I need help on the land, pulling small logs and hauling a wagon with goods as I work to move to a more off grid life style. (very good for mental and emotional health) I adore how this gentleman speaks to the animal. I think pulling is something her mind would enjoy. she loves the natural horsemanship and liberty training, always looking for "what do we get to do next". she just isn't the sort to do the overly lovey dove thing until she is ready for a nap. This video was just amazing to watch. I want to learn. I love how the horse listens to his voice. Smart boy.

[@customerserviceteamleaders4736]

I need this man in my life for my horse :)

[@poco1990]

I couldn't agree with you more. We have a saying in the Southern U.S.A. ; you can catch more flys with sugar then you vinegar.

[@lakota123max]

god bless u Barry! wish every horse could be in ur hands sir...u are a real gentleman and horseman!

[@jetonmazreku5191]

Giselle Back

[@christinamaloney4059]

I love the fact you use a regular halter. It's beautiful to see the horse respond to verbal commands. I am hoping to get formal driving lessons myself before acquiring a trained harness horse for my own. Other than a good mind, is there anything you look for in a good driving horse? P.S. I'm in the USA so Standardbreds, Belgians, or miniature horses are the usual breeds that are plentiful with driving experience.

[@Zebra-dogs]

+Christina Malley You want a solid horse that isn't going to shy away from a challenge and won't spook. Belgians would work best out of those three as they're reliable and hardworking.

[@rayclark7730]

I love the way you train the horses. I would've love to try this too but don't know much about training.

[@cmykeys]

This horse certainly has a lot of try/heart.

[@Smaranda0]

The horse was so well behaved. Good job.

[@HiddenFarmApalachin]

I absolutely love this!!!! And it's a plug for bitless bridles too!!!

[@horseygirl70]

wow, you are a sweet talker ;-) tire is his new favorite toy. luv it.

[@hackneysaregreat]

Absolutely fascinating and very enjoyable to watch. Common sense when training and using a horse means everything to a horse. Thanks again.

[@cherylwood7309]

Should a horse always be trained with or without blinkers,have started our boy on a slide .He is going well just wondering if we should take blinkers off as well,had conflicting advice, thanks.

[@hattie92ify]

....Santa?

[@Hayden-uh8lx]

i never knew santa owned a horse either hattie92ify

[@remedyfarm]

I think it is the attitudes of the users of tools that gets me worried. I see people here too often using tools as shortcuts. I get sensitive because I have had my horse at boarding barns where people regularly use "ropes and pullies" in place of proper riding. Anyways, I do understand what you are saying. I am glad for that there is someone out there like you who takes the time to make all the videos you do and who spends the hours with them that results in trust. Thanks:))

[@elizabethratcliff1503]

Where would tbe best place be to start when harness breaking for the first time? No one in my area carts anymore and I would love to learn. I love the way you treat your animals its similar to the way my grandpa did.

[@PercheronAppLVR]

Looks like you saved a beautiful creature from a sad fate. I love watching your videos and absolutely love the way you speak to these horses! :) Makes me smile. I have a Perch cross who I'm sure has been driven before. She's now 8 yrs old and I've had her for about 2 years. She long reins beautifully - bitless and I've been thinking about getting her into driving. You have some very smart training techniques. What do you think I could get her started pulling? tyre/bottles/ropes/noisy things ?

[@barryhook2]

Thanks for your comment; the contraption in that video is actually based on a similar device thats been used for hundreds of years for training horses - before the advent of pulling tyres! The principles behind it (when used as intended) are sound, but I don't have any time for this method of using it, or the man's attitude (anyone who chains a horse2the back of a trailer+pulls it along is, in my opinion, no horseman) but ironically the device itself when used correctly is safe and kind.

[@yvonneshort681]

Uncle Barry!!!!this blooming great black thing is in my way!!!!

[@kirstinetermansen8360]

Like your humour and honor, to cure not Hurt

[@antoniopalazon9439]

Desde Spain puede hacer un vídeo entrenando para enganchar a dos caballos desde el inicio. Gracias

[@debtompkins5363]

unknown trauma... once I finish healing I will go back to square one to look for 'concerns'.... last I knew we were both ok although the cart was tipping badly with one wheel up over a plastic barrel and I knew I was going to be dumped out. when I came to on the ground, the cart was upside down with both shafts broken off and the horse had taken himself back to the barn. what happened in-between, ... I do not recall.

[@exact109able]

Love the look he's giving u...... What would u like me 2 do now??? He's beautiful

[@cousinavallon2594]

General. We all use the word Braking. I suggest the word Trusting or another what do you all think, its a new generation and I think we owe it to our 4 legged friends. As I say horses are not a plug and play. There are our equal all the lack the speech. Here is a person who respects his 4 legged Friends.

[@JackiJohnson-x6x]

I'm starting my mare, we have ground drove and she is traffic safe. I bought a starting cart but she is no way ready for that.

[@stockcar4d]

you my friend...are a decent bloke

[@foureyeddragon00]

I wish I had somebody like you around here to help me train my mare to drive. Taught her to about the harness and ground driving as a young horse, but never made it any further. Now I would love to pick back up on her training, but the only people that know how to drive around here are the Amish, and I am not a fan of their methods.

[@devynlyman2947]

I love your commentary when you talk to your horse :)

[@Orangejuice3189]

You speak so calmly to ur horse its so sweat xx

[@barryhook2]

It provides a safe environment for the horse2get used2the shafts, the pulling/motion of a rolling vehicle, the confines of harness etc. If the horse jumps forwards or startles he doesn’t receive a jerk in his mouth because you are sitting on a platform behind (as opposed to long-reining where you might stumble/trip up). It should not be used to “tie the horse down” or chase him round with a whip as shown. Its not the equipment itself, its the manner in which its being used that is the problem.

[@1535haha]

Great information cheers Barry

[@MegF142857]

Love watch you working with your horses.

[@bshwebb]

I found the bit on shoeing interesting. I can understand why you don't do it as you are schooling horses, but I drive my 13.2 mare barefoot and bitless ( I use a flower hackamore). I use hoof boots on her for a longer drive, but drive her barefoot regularly to keep her hooves down. I then just have to do minimal trimming myself. I LOVE what you share on here and wish every horse could have the great start that you give them. Keep up the good work. X

[@elainebrown2330]

Your a lovely guy with sweet methods ❤🐴

[@ShotgunAndAShovel]

I'm curious to know how he is now? After more work with him. He seemed like a very twitchy/nervous horse. Like our paso fino.

[@ShotgunAndAShovel]

He looks a lot like our Spartan too

[@MegaNatasha13]

That is such a gorgeous horse.

[@holliesmith1967]

you are a true horse man xxxxxx

[@watsonsaquatics7604]

Fab videos Barry very educational. Can I ask is you with the beard now or before? Ps after speaking with you in the phone I got the rubber bit and my horse loves it xxx

[@barryhook2]

No beard anymore! Glad to hear your horse is doing well in a rubber bit.

[@JustASleepySloth]

I'm curious to see what you think about the Monty Roberts head collar as far as I've seen and a they've explained it seems humane and good enough to be used as a bridle.

[@barryhook2]

+TheAssholeProphet We do not like any of that style of rope halter, or ones that can tighten up to put pressure on the horse's head. One brand of "nice" halter has metal studs at the poll, and others are made of rope in order to allow the handler to apply a great deal of pressure with little effort themselves (as its concentrated on a small area, it increases the intensity). Similar to walking in snow; wearing thin heels a 150lb person would sink, but wearing snowshoes that spread the weight over a larger area, the same person wouldn't sink. Normal padded headcollars have a wide surface area and spread the pressure, whereas rope ones are narrower and concentrate the pressure applied. When driving bitless we use a normal noseband, not a crossunder style, or side-pull, or any style that can be used with any leverage ie a hackamore. Likewise when leading or handling in the yard, we use a standard headcollar, not a Monty Roberts/Parelli/rope control halter, as we do not like how they work.

[@JustASleepySloth]

+barryhook2 I understand, I can see why it'd be safer to use a normal head collar. Especially in this video where the horse was head shy.

[@JustASleepySloth]

+barryhook2 That makes sense, I must admit I was kind of sceptical about the use of pressure on the head.

[@thomasfaltejsek]

+TheAssholeProphet Less is More, AP, if a horse is really difficult the less and simpler the equipment and the less automatic pressure the better. Keep it simple, keep it straightforward. The problem with the dually type halters is if the horse runs back in a panic, that halter tightens like mad, puts pressure on like mad, just when you don't want it to. On a very phlegmatic horse (or if you're going to chase him round a pen til he's exhausted, which is not training - the old saying is 'There are two types of horses you can't train, a fresh horse and a tired horse'), maybe that would not be a problem as the horse would give up and just stand there exhausted/dispirited, but it is not ever something that is going to work if the person is working a horse in an intelligent, sensible manner.

[@DianeStPeter]

I have a question. I know you use a rubber bit. Do you use that bit to teach them or are you using a halter when you teach them to drive before you add the rubber bit?

[@barryhook2]

Hi Diane, usually we go straight to a rubber bit. Occasionally we use a halter (head collar) but usually only if there is a dentistry issue with their mouths.

[@HorsemanOz]

Can you tell me the make and model of the harness please?

[@barryhook2]

Old video but think it's a Hartlands Hi-Tech Waffle.

[@blondicannuk42]

what a beauty he is such a good boy

[@amandamount39]

I have a young mini I'm working with and run into some real problems...none of the "books" explain how to help him. Is there a way to message you about it?

[@barryhook2]

Hi Amanda, yes you can email us anytime on: [e-mail]

[@fernlintner65]

thank you so much for your videos it is so good to see real world work thank you you're the best!

[@Robby334]

Watched loads of your vid clips love them all

[@Lauren-vd4qe]

a fine looking horse; looks like an american saddlebred! hoping you have better health in the future as you appear a bit breathless.

[@barryhook2]

Thanks Lauren! This video was taken 8 years ago - have a look at our recent videos to see how much weight Barry has lost. He's doing loads better health-wise, thank you for your kind comment.

[@SilkeJuppenlatz]

If you have any recommendations of good driving trainers in France (preferably Normandy) I'd love to get my 6yo trained. :) Sadly with Brexit the way it is, I can't send him to you! lol

[@barryhook2]

Hi Silke, no sorry we don't know any trainers in France and cannot recommend other trainers as we cannot vouch for their methods.

[@Technoid52]

Thank you Barry. I notice you have boots on the horses hoofs. I won't shoe my horses. And I was told to use boots for there feet when driving. What do you recomend? I have been told by my Ferrier that as the nails grow you need different sizes.

[@classicambo9781]

7 years later but these are not hoof boots. They are bell boots. All they do is cover the outside hoof horn and heel bulb for a bit of protection from over reaching or knocks. They don't protect the sole of the hoof at all. Hoof boots are great however and some to look at are scoot boots, cavellos etc. There are also polyurethane glue on shoes now or casting.

[@999aas]

a real worker nice vid

[@MissKittybigpaws]

he is a lovely horse, I am hoping to get my pony back in harness next year she did it in her first home, I need to find someone local to help me :)

[@jessicahill9729]

Your amazing can your train my gypsy cob please

[@barryhook2]

Hi Jess, if you're interested in having your horse trained here at HDP, please send an enquiry to [e-mail] and we'll get back to you.

[@kippen64]

You inspire me.

[@63Malda]

How long, on average, does it take to teach a new horse to pull a cart, beginning to finish?

[@barryhook2]

If previously untrained, the average time is 6 weeks. If they have previous issues, it can take longer to overcome them.

[@captmidnite8142]

VERY WELL DONE , , A GOOD THING TO ACHIEVE

[@dontmatternonee]

Thank you so much! Very helpful information!

[@daniloaugustorodriguescard8065]

Qual é a raça do cavalo

[@peachyvlogs33]

Where about r u located?

[@barryhook2]

Hi, we are based near Stockbridge in Hampshire (UK).

[@woodfinn]

You rock, Barry !!!

[@The15secondsOfame]

Such a beauty of a horse ❤

[@ahmedbaig7279]

I don,t see two wheeler carts driven by horses. The Egyptions and Romans were using these horses in two wheeler vehicles, and these were called ' cheriots'. Instead of riding on the horse, cheriots can be used for transporting from one place to another. At the most four horses are used. That was a big invention of its time.

[@Joe_2747]

Thankyou really helped

[@RadioRoxx.FM_90.1FM]

I apreciate teaching us all

[@WhitmoreLusitanos]

I think you are wonderful.

[@mariGentle]

What a marvel ❤🤩

[@StallionWildMustang]

Hi 👍🐴💪🧑‍🤝‍🧑✍️

[@Hayden-uh8lx]

i never knew santa clause had a horse named baby boy

[@gemmakerrigan49]

You are better using Dually Hutter

[@hicx8734]

great video though

[@jobond3317]

Actually enclosed yards can be very scary for a horse. Nowhere to go can increase anxiety. Maybe good for humans but not so for animals

[@Porschesvideos]

I just LOVE YOU and how you train! I believe in the same thing! I NEVER EVER use a bit. Not on all 8 of my horses and never will with any of my rescues ( I rescue horses/ donkeys, mules, zebras, minis, ponies) from slaughter/ kill pens and the LAST thing these guys want, is a bit or to be hit! THANK YOU for this video and i will follow you. Maybe you can check my channel out sometime with me and my rescues. Thank you and looking forward to more! :)