tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7086689560768101844.post4674054558823049938..comments2023-08-15T02:12:48.932-07:00Comments on Topaz Dreams: Fear and training gapsFigurehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02344675725634191104noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7086689560768101844.post-6445072507444787402014-01-07T11:19:41.178-08:002014-01-07T11:19:41.178-08:00Does it make any sense if I say that there’s no co...Does it make any sense if I say that there’s no contradiction between your desire for forward and your desire for brakes? Balking and running off are both the same problem; the issue is rideability. And it is, unfortunately, true that being willing to negotiate with the horse – or worse, pony! – does tend to inspire the horse to think all cues are negotiable. Constant compromise isn’t a relationship; it’s a hostage situation.<br /><br />I’m a huge fan of horses that think for themselves and I’m even a fan of intelligent disobedience. But I figure the horse earns that privilege by demonstrating good judgment as well as an understanding of the aids and a willingness to play on my team. I am less of a fan of freelancing. *g*<br /><br />I know where I’d start, but mileage varies. Dropping your trainer a line sounds like a good first step. Good luck with it!Hannahhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12237668899993749427noreply@blogger.com