Hello everyone!
In November I was given a Thoroughbred gelding. I was told he was used extensively trails and was very broke. You could put anybody on him...Or so I was told...
His ground manners are great! A very "in your pocket" type of horse. Loves being groomed, and pet, and will follow you around like a puppy dog. Even stands well when being tacked up, and mounted, the issues don't begin until you're in the saddle.
At first we thought he was in pain. Being told he was well trained we didn't even think it had to do with his training or lack of. We tried different saddles, saddle pads, different bits, the DR. Cooks Bitless bridle. Had the farrier, vet and chiropractor out they all said he was fine. That's when I began to think that this horse hasn't had much training and what he has had must have been a long time ago.
Okay so down to what he's doing, or not doing:
Backing uncontrollably the only way to stop him is to turn him in a circle
When asked to walk forward he cow kicks, or bumps up his but (not a full buck), swishes, tail and throws head. I finally put a tie-down on him and he quit throwing his head.
He will walk half the length of the arena stop shake his head, jump up (not a full rear) stomp his back foot, and again the only way to get him to stop is to turn him in circles.
I had a friend of mine hook a lead rope to him while I was on his back and he acted like an angle, as soon as she took it off he started throwing a temper tantrum. She also rode him and he threw the same fits with her.
I have asked nothing more of him except to walk quietly around the arena.
A lady at my barn witnessed one of his "temper tantrum" yesterday. Today she approached me and asked me what was up his butt. I explained to her everything he has been doing, and she told me it sounds as though he's not even "broke" just "gentle". She works extensively with young horses and has trained all of her own.
I really wanted a nice quiet trail horse instead I ended up with a 16H pain in the rear. I love him and am willing to work with him I just need some advice. His actions are unsafe, and sometimes scary. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.