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Posted by Q on 5/28/2008, 11:15 pm, in reply to "Re: Horse Has No Respect"
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what worked for me with the QH when she got pushy was just raise my eyebrows, feed the others and go away for awhile. No comment, no criticism, nothing personal.
I'd come back in 10 minutes, ask her to back up and wait. She didn't? I'd go away again. I did not look at it as a battle or a dominance thing, just a "discussion". By taking my time and being clear with the reward, I let her figure out what works. Then her behavior became a choice, not defensive or aggressive.
Having said that, IF I give this mare the option of being reasonable and she decides to be pushy or pin her ears when I am close to her, I will chase her out of the stall with the lead rope, dressage whip or whatever is at hand...then go back to complete neutral as if nothing happened. She's expecting physical corrections and by not hurting her, she has a productive way out that makes us both feel good. I know the hitting her is in there, however, from someone in her past.
The reward for me is that where before she was aloof and distant, now she is checked in and the first one to run up the hill when she hears we're home. She trusts us.
She is also the best in the barn come feeding time. When I approach with food, she backs up a few steps and waits. If I ask her to take one or two steps back further, she does that too, and then I feed her right away.
She is older than yours (12), but I think I would try that...respect through leadership and praise vs. intimidation. Still, when you inherit bad training, you have to undo a lot and still stay safe.
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