Fighting that Infamous Grass Addiction

We've all know of horses that the instant they step foot on grass they want to eat and it's almost impossible to stop them. This is annoying and very tiring. Of course the best way to get this to stop is to teach them that they can't eat when you are working with them. I understand that some people feel that they will let their horses eat sometimes, but not others. This works with some horses, but the ones who are constantly eating and going to eat no matter what you say can't always get this luxury. At least in the beginning stages for sure. You will have to restrict him from snacking on the grass while you work with him until he understands that he doesn't have the freedom to eat at his own choosing.

What you will need: Halter, lead, carrot stick or lounge whip, grooming supplies (optional)

To start off I will stand the horse on the grass while holding the carrot stick and groom the horse thoroughly. I get very nit-picky about it and take a lot of time. I do this so that he has more opportunity to eat, but I still have something to do. You could also stand there and just wait, but I believe it is more entertaining for both of you if you groom. It also will make your horse very dashing.

While I groom I wait for him to try to grab a bite to eat. When he is right about to eat I give him a little tap on his nose and say a firm "No." Pretty soon he will start to understand that he isn't supposed to eat. He also will learn the meaning of the word "no". He may begin playing games with you. This game is in the form of seeing how close he can get to eating before you tap him. Don't let him play this game. Be sure you know at what point (or height) you will tap him at and be consistent about it.

Next, you move this over to ground work. This includes lounging whether on-line or in a grassed round pen. He already has an understanding of the word "no," so it will make it easier on you. When he lowers his head to eat say "no" and push him forward. You may have to give him a little spank (maybe even a big one) in order to keep him going. Timing is important and try to push him before his lips even touch a blade of grass. Eventually, he will understand and you will also notice that your horse will pay more attention to you and be more hooked onto you.

Once in saddle, the same concept on the ground applies. When he goes to eat say "no" and send him forward with a swift spank on the rump. This is the same as the cue from the ground so it isn't confusing him and you won't have to worry about deadening his mouth by constantly pulling on it.

THE DOES: Be consistent (don't tap hard sometimes and soft others and always tap as softly as possible to achieve the correct response). Pet him on the face a lot so he won't become head shy. Rub him with your stick so he doesn't learn to resent it. Be patient this takes time.

THE DON'TS: Don't be afraid of your horse (some horses will come at you and challenge you, but if you can reach the with your stick be sure to get him out of your space. Don't let him touch you, and if you need to give him a swift smack be sure to do so or you will teach him to bully you and he will start doing it all the time.) Don't get upset with your horse, he isn't being personal it's just how he is programmed. Don't let him become head shy. Don't make him hate your tools. Don't pull on his head with either the halter or the bridle (this can be confusing, and your horse is much stronger than you, there is no reason for a tug-of-war match). Don't expect this to fix it the first day you try it; it will require repetition and consistency.

Good luck and hopefully your horse will be a better, more enjoyable partner.