Category: Behaviour

Weaving

Weaving is a common problem found in horses that are stabled for prolonged periods of time without any stimulation or social contact. Dealing …

Vices – why and how to manage them

Horses have to put up with a lot! In years gone by horses were left to roam the plains free to do what they liked. Now they are expected to live …

Rearing

A horse may respond to certain circumstances by rearing. This may range from small rears with the front feet raised only a couple of feet off …

Headshaking

Headshaking is a problem seen in horses all over the country. If your horse is affected it is important to try and find out the cause of the problem …

Crib-biting/wind-sucking/wood-chewing

Crib-biting, wind-sucking and wood-chewing are repetitive oral behaviours that are most commonly seen in stabled horses. Crib-biting and wind-sucking …

Common training problems and how to deal with them

Sadly, horses often develop problem behaviours that affect the relationship between horse and handler. A recent study of horses presented in a …

Clipping problems – how to deal with them

As with many animals, horses grow a thicker coat in winter. The thickness of the winter coat varies depending on the breed of horse or pony and …

Clicker training

There is an increasing interest in the use of positive reinforcement techniques for training new behaviours in horses. The use of secondary reinforcers …

Bucking

Bucking is the term used for when a horse kicks out with both hind legs at the same time. Bucking can often unseat a rider, especially an inexperienced …

Bruxism

Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, is a commonly observed problem in horses, and is often a sign of physical or psychological discomfort. …