Top Marks – Nappy Horse

This episode of “Top Marks on the Road” focuses on a nappy horse ‘crash course’ where Kelly works with horses exhibiting reluctance to move forward or leave other horses. The programme documents the assessment and training interventions used to address this challenging behaviour.

The episode introduces a “nappy horse day” at Intelligent Horsemanship headquarters. It features three horses: Cash, who displays separation anxiety and refuses to move away from other horses; Finanella, who stops and goes backwards when ridden alone or in company; and Robin, a nervous horse who also stops and goes backwards when ridden away from others. The trainers, including Kelly Makrs and Dr Rosie Jones McVey, assess each horse’s specific issues and implement targeted training strategies. The programme emphasises the importance of owner confidence and equipping them with a plan for continued improvement.

Viewers will see the trainers employ various techniques to address napping behaviour. These include using tight circles to disengage the hindquarters, utilising a “giddy up rope” as an additional aid to encourage forward movement, and creating positive associations with moving away by alternating work and rest periods when the horse is separated. The episode also highlights the importance of using voice, hands and other aids before resorting to leg aids. The horses practice entering the arena independently, initially with a familiar horse present for support.

Key Learning Points:

1. Understanding and addressing individual triggers: Overcoming nappy behaviour requires understanding the specific reasons behind a horse’s reluctance to move forward. Trainers need to employ a variety of techniques tailored to each horse’s resistance, including methods to improve responsiveness to aids, build confidence in moving independently, and ensure safety for both horse and rider.
2. Consistency and owner education: Providing owners with clear, practical strategies is crucial for achieving long-term improvement. The goal is to give owners a “road map” to follow and build their confidence in handling their horses. 
3. Creating positive associations: Retraining nappy horses involves setting up situations for success, rewarding good behaviour, and avoiding negative spirals. This approach aims to make work enjoyable for the horse and break patterns of resistance.