ASKHQ: HOW CAN I DEAL WITH MY HORSE REFUSING JUMPS?

Q: How can I deal with my horse refusing jumps?

A: To avoid refusals or deal with them when they happen, try the following:

1. Use a stepwise approach to increase the challenge of a fence or obstacle bit by bit.
2. Don’t fight with your horse. Sometimes horses are just too frightened, or something hurts. These issues must be addressed first.
3. Try guiding and placing poles to encourage your horse into fences he has not jumped or seen before.
4. Use a shorter, energetic canter to keep your horse between hand and leg. This allows better control.
5. Reward every small effort in the right direction – even if it is very small!