Jabez Ranch Horsemanship

Training for a Foundation of Respect  from the Ground Up

Tip:  Move that horse’s butt!

 

As I observed once again at a clinic this past weekend and at recent Tour Stops, the one thing that continues to be a fundamental problem is a lack of disengagement.  Specifically, disengagement of the hindquarters, moving the butt.  Without this fundamental move you will not be able to effectively control your horse’s feet.  In order to control the horse’s mind we must control the feet, which is one of the basic principles of natural horsemanship.

 

Have you ever had a horse turn its butt to you in an effort to escape?  Ever try a one rein stop only to have your horse continue to run forward at full speed?  Ever have a horse pin you in a stall and you were unable to get him to move away?  If you have experienced any or all of these situations…you got it…lack of disengagement of the hindquarters.  So where do you start?

 

Would it surprise you if I said ground school?  Go back to the halter and lead rope with one horseman’s stick.  Prepare to a Position!!  Don’t you dare attempt to ask without you and the horse being prepared.  Ask, suggest and encourage, if needed.  Reward the smallest change or slightest try.  Start with one step while adhering to the basic principle of RELEASE.  Pretty soon you will be doing 180’s and 360’s.  The horse will become more soft and be more responsive with each attempt.  Your horse will be willing to face you with both eyes…RESPECT.  Now you are getting somewhere!

 

Practice every day disengaging the hindquarters.  First begin with a halter and lead rope and then progress at liberty. How?  Here are some ideas to help you get started.

 

Send your horse into a stall and ask for the disengagement.

While grooming your horse ask for a disengagement to change sides.

When entering a stall ask for disengagement so the horse faces you.

Ask for disengagement when your horse is at the feeder.

 

Get creative and have fun.  Be a leader and gain a more respectful horse.

 

All of this and more is waiting for you in the Freedom course.  Pretty soon and in less time than you think you will be doing the Million Dollar Move!  Now how cool is that?

 

Bruce Norton is a former Reis Ranch Instructor in Hereford, Arizona.

 

Move that Horse’s Butt!

Horse Tips