Transforming this belligerent, aggressive, piranah of a horse to a productive member of society was a multistep process. A 1,000 pound 3 year old horse, he had become a very dangerous animal. He would bite, hick, paw, anything he could to get what he wanted. The primary goal of the initial training sessions was going to be to establish some basic ground rules and a level of trust and respect that the trainer, Tim Anderson, could build on.
Phase 1: Groundwork and Space Respect
Brodie’s eagerness to invade the trainer’s space was evident. Brodie’s intent was to enter the trainer’s space in an effort to get the trainer to move his feet, therefore establishing dominance and control of the situation. Groundwork exercises were employed to establish respect for the trainer’s personal space. Changing directions frequently engaged Brodie’s attention, fostering his willingness to respond to cues and maintain focus.
Bumpers I have on the saddle for desensitization.
Introducing Tack
Next the process of introducing the bridle and saddle began. The trainer chose a plain snaffle bit bridle with D rings. To start with Brodie would be wearing this bit and the trainer would be working from the halter. After Brodie understood the steering cues then he would be transitioned to working from the bit. This process revealed Brodie’s initial resistance and attitude towards accepting the saddle and bridle. It was very apparent that Brodie was very familiar with the saddle and bridle and though not scared of them, was willing to take measures to avoid them.
Bit I am using on Brodie.
Overcoming Resistance
Brodie’s resistance, particularly in regards to the saddle, was addressed with a patient yet firm approach. The trainer employed techniques such as changing directions and encouraging forward movement to engage Brodie’s mind and alleviate his resistance. It was obvious that Brodie’s attitude towards the saddle was less about fear and more about expressing his displeasure.
Establishing Direction and Willingness
During the groundwork, Brodie’s responses were observed closely. The trainer highlighted the significance of getting Brodie to “move when I say move” and maintain his attention on the trainer. The session revolved around Brodie’s willingness to follow cues, change directions, and cooperate, setting the foundation for more advanced training.
Addressing Attitude and Nipping
Brodie’s attitude towards being told what to do came into focus. His excessive biting and attempts to put his mouth on the trainer were addressed promptly. These behaviors were recognized as attempts to assert dominance and were not allowed. Every time Brodie attempted the behaviors the trainer lunged him to discourage the behavior. Throughout this process it was essential to keep Brodie’s attention and keep reinforcing the trainer maintaining his personal space.
Introduction of Line Work
The use of long lines was introduced to teach Brodie to respond to cues without direct physical contact. This exercise helped Brodie become more comfortable with lateral cues, thereby preparing him for eventual riding. The trainer showcased the significance of effectively communicating through the lines to achieve specific movements.
Fostering Cooperation
Brodie’s willingness to cooperate gradually improved throughout the sessions. By redirecting his attention, engaging his mind, and reinforcing boundaries, the trainer managed to transform Brodie’s attitude from resistance to cooperation. Each interaction helped build a stronger bond between the horse and trainer.
The work with Brodie during this first phase of training was repeated several times until gradually Brodie became less defiant and more cooperative. It is important to note however that as phase 1 gradually became better, then phase 2 started. This transition was a gradual progression, not a progression all at one time. As Brodie transitioned from resistance to cooperation, the transition occurred and sometimes remedial work was necessary. These sessions underscored the importance of not only addressing specific behaviors but also focusing on building a solid foundation of trust and respect to continue to build on.
Phase 2: Building Work Ethic
Now it was time to work into the next phase of Brodie’s training and that was to begin to start developing a better work ethic. As Brodie learned to do the tasks that were asked of him, Tim gradually asked for the tasks to be performed to a higher quality before releasing the pressure that was asking for the task. It was important for Brodie’s continued progress of training that he continually try harder to perform the tasks to a higher degree of difficulty. For example when turning on the lunge line in the beginning Brodie was rewarded for any turn to show him that the turn was the correct response to the cue that was given to him to turn. As he understood the cue then Brodie was gradually expected to perform the turn using his body more correctly. By asking for more current maneuvers Brodie gradually built a better work ethic in the tasks he was given to do.
The Power of Negative Reinforcement
Work ethic is rarely built with positive reinforcement. To build a desire to work harder, there has to be consequences for not working harder. An action that is less than the level expected must earn Brodie harder work. Just like parenting tough love, if the effort isn’t made there are consequences. This concept reinforces the idea that working harder leads to a more comfortable state.
Shaping Behavior through Direction Changes
Direction changes on a lunge line plays a pivotal role in this work ethic stage. When direction changes are performed with the desired degree of effort there is a reward. If not, the lunging continues. This technique will transfer later to other tasks that will be asked of Brodie.
Overcoming Challenges: Biting and Aggression
Addressing the horse’s biting and aggressive tendencies is a priority. The trainer employs assertive methods to discourage these behaviors. The horse learns that aggressive actions or attempts to bite result in more demanding work, teaching him that cooperation is the more desirable option.
Focusing on Attitude Transformation
The trainer’s ultimate goal is not just to ride the horse but to transform his attitude. A positive attitude and willingness to cooperate on the ground are essential prerequisites for successful riding. Therefore, the horse’s attitude takes precedence over immediate riding progress. The goal at this point is not to ride, but to foster an attitude that will produce a successful ride.
The Importance of Patience and Incremental Progress
Progress takes time. Small steps are celebrated, and each session builds on the foundation laid in the previous ones. The horse’s improvement in turning without challenging the trainer’s space or showing aggression is a significant achievement.
Phase 3 Introducing a new job and a positive outlet: Tracking Cows
Now that Brodie is more respectful and compliant, and performing tasks with effort it is time to introduce an outlet for all of the energy that Brodie has been learning to control. Brodie is given the opportunity to show dominance and aggression towards making a cow move. One might think that since he has those tendencies, why not ever let him show them? The answer is that just because Bridie is showing control of those tendencies doesn’t mean they are not still there. Giving him that opportunity, gives him structure and rules when he can do the things he naturally wants to do which makes controlling those things easier for him. It’s like telling a child they can play with the water hose outside but not inside.
Brodie shows talent and promise in this area, demonstrating an eagerness to engage with the task. It is important that Brodie understands the rules during cow tracking sessions, including controlling speed and direction, allowing facial expressions, but not biting the cows.
Positioning and Obedience
Since work ethic was established earlier in Brodie’s training, it is easy to extend that work ethic now by asking Brodie to put more effort into his cow work. Brodie is taught to position himself correctly on a cow and to turn the cow correctly with effort. Now Brodie has an outlet to do the behaviors that come naturally to him. This makes Brodie a much safer and trustworthy horse in general.
Better Saddle horse
Now Brodie is a better saddle horse in general and progress can be made with his general steering and body control. By closely observing Brodie’s ears, head movements, and overall body language, the trainer gains insight into Brodie’s mindset and intentions. This helps the trainer anticipate potential issues and respond appropriately.
Brodie has an understanding of what is expected of him and his part of the partnership, it is still important that the rider hold up their end of the partnership. The trainer has to continually prove his leadership qualities to Brodie and be a good communicator. It is important that the rider actively rides, moving in harmony with the horse’s motion, and using cues effectively is emphasized. This active partnership fosters understanding between rider and horse, facilitating smoother transitions and improved obedience.
Progressive Training Approach
During this whole process the trainer has focused on gradual progress, consistently addressing one issue at a time. Slow work and exercises that challenge Brodie’s comfort zone are key components of the training regiment. The goal is not just to make Brodie obey but to instill consistent, respectful behavior in all situations.
Steering is an essential aspect of Brodie’s training. The trainer teaches him to respond to cues from both reins and legs, encouraging flexibility and proper alignment. By turning Brodie into walls and using leg cues, the trainer enhances Brodie’s understanding of how to move his body effectively.
As Brodie’s training progressed, his entire demeanor underwent a remarkable change. His biting tendencies and resistance were gradually replaced by a willingness to engage and cooperate. His work ethic, which was once lacking, became a standout feature of his training. The discipline and rules associated with working cows played a significant role in molding his behavior, fostering respect for instructions and boundaries.
Brodie’s journey of transformation ultimately led to a newfound sense of accomplishment. He transitioned from being a problematic horse to a valuable equine partner, capable of contributing effectively to cow-related tasks. With his behaviors redefined and his focus redirected, Brodie became a joy to work with both on the ground and under the saddle.
Heading Home on a High Note
As Brodie prepares to return to his owner, his departure is marked by a sense of fulfillment and success. He is leaving as a well-rounded, obedient, and purpose-driven horse. His journey demonstrates the power of patient and strategic training methods, the importance of channeling a horse’s innate abilities, and the effectiveness of replacement training.
Conclusion
Brodie’s story serves as a testament to the potential for transformation within every challenging horse. By addressing unwanted behaviors, introducing purposeful tasks, and applying replacement training, Brodie went from an aggressive and unruly horse to a focused and productive equine partner. His story highlights the depth of change that can be achieved through dedication, understanding, and a commitment to nurturing a horse’s true potential. As Brodie heads home, his journey stands as a shining example of the positive impact that training can have on a horse’s behavior, demeanor, and overall well-being.
You can watch Brodie’s Playlist of training videos on youtube. If you enjoyed this blog article, you also enjoy the my other blogs about Horse’s Training Journeys and this blog that talks about how How Lack of Training causes horse behavior problems.
All of the valuable information I have learned through 25+ years of horse training and showing I share with you to help you to improve your equestrian knowledge. I have horse training videos posted on my YouTube and Facebook pages and here at HelpWithMyHorse.com.