These are my top horsemanship pet peeves — five rider habits that lead to behavioral problems with your horse.
I’ve coached riders for more than 50 years, and whether it’s private lessons at my Almosta Ranch in Arizona or clinics around the world, I see a lot of bad habits that really tick me off. But more than that, they lead to poor — and sometimes unsafe — habits in your horse. Here are my top horsemanship pet peeves to watch out for. As a note, I’ve covered most of these topics in depth in past installments.
Pet Peeve 1: Lazy Leading
A horse that trails far behind you when leading learns quickly to drag on you and not respect you as the leader. That lack of respect bleeds into other areas, from standing tied to under saddle. If you expect your horse to be light in the bridle, it starts with how he leads — lightness in his face begins on the ground. The same poor habits come from letting your horse drag you around on the ground, which is exceptionally unsafe.
Pet Peeve 2: Improper Mounting
How you get on your horse sets the tone for your entire ride. The correct way — and the way to save your horse’s withers and back — is to place your left foot in the stirrup and push off the ground with your right leg. That might be a couple of bounces to get momentum, or just one if you’re stronger or your horse is shorter. It really bothers me when I see someone put a foot in the stirrup and drag themselves up to get on, pulling the saddle toward them. This puts unnecessary torque on your horse’s withers, is irritating to your horse, and can lead to cinchiness. Improper mounting leads to your horse becoming antsy — and worse — when you get on for a ride. A horse that doesn’t stand for mounting is showing disrespect for you and can be a safety concern.
Be mindful when you dismount, too. Clear your horse’s hindquarters with your right leg, step down, and take your left foot out of the stirrup. Don’t slide down the side of your horse.
Pet Peeve 3: Poor Rein Management
I get really annoyed with riders who can’t manage their reins. From uneven reins to not knowing how to lengthen and shorten them, this is basic horsemanship. Additionally, improper reining is a pet peeve of mine. If you rein downward and back instead of slightly up and across, it also causes problems for your horse. And if you use romal reins, don’t tilt your hand to rein side to side. Keep that hand straight up like you’re holding an ice cream cone.
Toes-Down Riding: A Dangerous Habit
No matter how many times I tell people, “heels down,” I continue to see riders go around the pen with their heels up. That really gets me going. It builds resistance and resentment from your horse when you mash him in the sides with your heels in that position, especially if you wear spurs. Keep your toes slightly out and your heels down! This also helps you keep a better, more balanced seat.
The Problem with Riding Feet-Forward
If I take you off your horse when your position is standing with your feet ahead of you, you’re going to fall over backward. It’s not a balanced position. Your position in the saddle should be similar to standing on the ground: ears over your shoulders, shoulders over your hips, hips over your heels, and toes slightly out.
About Al Dunning
Al Dunning, of Scottsdale, Arizona, has produced world champion horses and riders in multiple disciplines. He’s been a professional trainer for more than 40 years and has produced books, DVDs, and an online mentoring program, Team AD International (aldunning.com).