Jul 28 2010
Horse Training Help.. Running Trot and breaks into Canter?
Hi..
I own a 10 yr. old "green" morgan horse… I got him this last January… and am currently working with him (we hope to eventually do some lower level eventing)… I do take lessons and work with an instructor as well… but I do allot of work alone at home with him… and I had a question…
He knows the cue for canter but he will continue to trot and then trot faster, and faster until he finally breaks into the canter… his canter is bueatiful once he’s in it but it’s just so frustrating for me.. my instructor has worked with me.. with him… but I didn’t know if there was anybody out there who has had similiar problems that has any ideas for me…
I would really appreciate it!! Thanks so much!!
*smiles*
I do not know what your trainer has you trying, but this is what I suggest. That if he trots more then 20-30 ft that you should bring him back to the walk and try it again. I would also suggest using a crop to get his attention and maybe give him a little tap to make him more focused on going forward. By always letting him run into it he thinks that is what he needs to do. When he does do it quickly reward him and do not canter to long. He is a morgan they love to trot and show it off. I live in VT and we have a lot here and they are beautiful but they can trot their little hearts out. Just be consistant and he should catch on. Best of luck and if you need any more hints just ask.
It sounds like he might lack the strength or balance to transition easily. I would work on collection and strength building at the walk and trot for a while, getting him to really use his hind end. Then when it seems he is ready, when you ask for the canter, make sure that you are well set up and collected before you ask, and rate him as he moves into it. Once he knows he can, he will.