Nipping/Biting

Question
Hi there!

I was wondering if you could help me out. I have a year old orphan Kiger Mustang colt who, for the most part, has come a long way in his training, and has decent manners, but he is SO ridiculously mouthy. I realize that a lot of colts, especially orphans, can be very nippy, but I can't figure out a way to get him to stop this behavior... I have tried many training tips including pulling whiskers, and popping him with the butt-end of a crop, but to no avail. He has never been allowed to get away with nipping, but he continues to do it like he cannot help himself. Sometimes when he is disciplined for biting me, he will get frustrated and start biting himself... Any tips on how to curb his oral fixation?? Thanks!

Hannah

Answer
Hello Hannah,

Thanks for your question.

When I have a nipper I always work around the horse when the horse is halter. When the horse starts to nip at you give three swift jerks to the lead rope wait several seconds rub is neck to reassure him and go back to what you were doing. Do this every time he attempts to nip and he will soon get that biting is not an accepted behavior.

Please let him know if this helps you out.

Thanks