Q: My horse has started refusing jumps he used to pop over easily. What could be going on?

A: A sudden change in jumping confidence or willingness is often a red flag. First, rule out physical causes: discomfort from sore feet, back pain, ill-fitting tack, ulcers, or even subtle lameness can make jumping uncomfortable. A thorough check by your vet, physio, dentist and saddle fitter is a good starting point, especially if the refusals are new or escalating.

If pain is ruled out, look at training and rider confidence. Have you recently raised the height, changed footing, or had a fall? Horses are sensitive to our emotions, and even small inconsistencies in approach or balance can lead to refusals. Consider taking a step back to rebuild trust over smaller fences and ensure you’re giving your horse clear, confident aids.

Sometimes, a short break from jumping followed by positive reintroduction helps reset both horse and rider mindset.