Understanding Resistance in Horses by D/C - Resistance Series #3
- Dennis Cappel
- Jul 7
- 1 min read
Clear Mental Horsemanship with Dennis Cappel
Overcoming Resistance in a Horse’s Face – Resistance series part 3
Resistance in a horse’s face, bracing in the jaw, lifting the head, or pushing the nose out is common, especially in green or defensive horses. While bending can help, overusing it can create a hiding place rather than true softness.
Instead, I prefer to soften a horse by driving them forward with my seat and legs, asking for a slight bend as I engage the body.
At first, the horse may brace into the pressure that is normal. The key is to wait. When they choose to release that brace and soften, even just a little, that moment must be met with total release.
Softness is not about where the head goes, it is about how the horse feels when you pick up a bridle rein. I want them to meet that feel with willingness, so I can guide their whole body into a balanced, responsive place that makes anything I ask easier.
Mindful Riding,
Dennis Cappel - Master Horseman
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