10/06/2025
I want my horses to feel free to think and participate with me and our students. This article explains it well.
🔥 Why Escalating Pressure Backfires 🔥
When a horse is learning something new, hesitation doesn’t mean they’re being stubborn. It usually means they’re unsure of what you’re asking.
Escalating pressure teaches the opposite lesson. The horse learns that if they pause, the handler will turn up the heat ..... pulling harder, yanking on the lead rope, or banging on the halter. Very quickly, the horse stops focusing on the request and starts bracing for the consequence.
That horse stays on alert, which may look like they’re paying attention, but really they’re anticipating correction instead of searching for the right answer. The result is a horse that is reactive, jumpy, and worried..... not because of the obstacle in front of them, but because of the unpredictable pressure behind them.
The alternative is simple, but powerful:
Ask.
Wait.
Ask again, calmly.
If needed, reframe the question in a clearer way.
This consistency gives the horse room to THINK. They learn that a hesitation won’t be met with punishment, but with patience. And that’s when true responsiveness grows. A horse that trusts your ask will offer you more tries, more willingness, and more confidence.
Escalating pressure may get quick obedience, but it does so at the cost of understanding and trust. Patience builds both.
Photo credit Sorrel B Photography
