If you’ve been around horses for any length of time, you’ve no doubt seen a head-shy horse.
A head-shy horse is one that doesn’t like being handled at the head. It may be a general defiance toward anything directed at his head, or he may have a specific dislike of being touched on the mouth. He’ll lift his head, move away, or make other movements that create not only a nuisance for you as his handler, but also create a safety issue. It makes catching and handling him more of a chore than necessary.
Having a head-shy horse can be frustrating, but it’s easy to understand how a horse could be this way. We do a lot around the horse’s head, don’t we? We’re attaching halters and bridles, giving medication and trimming. And the more we do these things, the more head-shy he can become. It’s no wonder they want to get away from what they might perceive as an unpleasant experience. It might also be due to a past negative history with other owners.
The good news is you can teach your horse not to fear movement near his head. Like most activities with your horse, it’s going to take time and patience.
What’s causing it?
You may need to take a look at your surroundings. There could be items in your vicinity that result in him being skittish. There may also be physical issues that seem to cause head-shyness, such as ear discomfort, tooth problems or any variety of mouth concerns.
Before tackling the head-shy issue
Horses’ actions are related to outcomes. So consider using positive reinforcement – such as a reward – for the proper response. You can also get him desensitized to places or objects that don’t put him in the position to feel uncomfortable. If you’re going to work with his head-shy nature, consider doing it in a small, enclosed area. Do anything you can to get him relaxed and leave him untied throughout the lesson.
Steps you can take
Stand in front of him and raise your arm up-and-down. Get him used to motions. Don’t try to sneak around his head, because that’ll only make him more head-shy and jittery. Speak to him and offer him reinforcement and positive praise. After a while of success, make the motions more deliberate and fast in order to desensitize him to the motion. Remember, don’t get too close to him. Do the same motions but employ common objects that you’ll eventually use with him, such as halters and rope. Continue to offer praise, possibly rewards. If you do this consistently over time, he’ll be more used to quick, sudden movements.
As with any horse problem, identify the source, find a solution and take your time. Head-shyness doesn’t have to be a lifelong issue for any horse.
