Dealing with Excess Energy in a Horse

Have you ever had to deal with EXCESS ENERGY in a horse? Excess energy might look like jigging down the trail, refusing to stand still when tacking up or getting in the saddle, or constant nickering. While some behaviors might only be mildly annoying, if the horse is not taught how to manage his emotions and pay attention to YOU, he can become extremely unsafe in a hurry.

It is a mistake to try to hold onto a horse to contain his energy. He needs to learn to manage his emotions on his own without me having to constantly hold him back. With that being said, I prefer to put that excess energy to work instead.

Excess Energy On the Ground
If my horse refuses to stand still and is dancing around me on the ground, I'll direct his feet. I'll lunge him around and keep changing directions if necessary until the horse is focused on me.

Walking Off When Mounting
If my horse tries to move forward before I ask, I'll immediately back him up then let him sit - then repeat as necessary. This will eventually cause him to anticipate stillness prior to moving forward when I get in the saddle.

Running Through the Shoulders
One of my biggest pet peeves is when a horse bends but won't follow his nose. It's the result of way too much bending and not enough actual movement. When he is jigging or showing signs of distress, I have to start moving his feet - picking a direction and taking him there. When I pick up on the rein I want his body to follow his nose. If I ask nicely with the rein and he refuses, I'll lift that rein until he comes around. When he follows his nose, I'll release. Admittedly, it's a little ugly, but it's effective.

Things to Remember:
- Your arena exercises aren't just for the arena. Take those lessons and use them wherever you go.
- Set clear boundaries and stick to them ("my horse may not crowd my personal space," "my horse cannot dance all around me," etc.)
- Keep your horse focused on YOU.
- Remember that what happens on the ground happens when you're on his back.
- Change the way your horse thinks about standing still. Help him desire a rest period.

Remember that it is YOUR job as the leader to help teach your horse to manage his energy and his emotions. Help him to find where his release is, and reward him for his efforts. Until next time, may God bless the trails you ride!

- Ken McNabb