Tricky to lunge
QMy mare is difficult to lunge on the left rein and rears when I ask her to go left. Why is she doing this? Darren White, Chiswick Diane says... This needs to be resolved soon, before rearing becomes a habit. First, check all your equipment to ensure it’s correctly fitted and not causing any rubbing or discomfort. Then have your mare checked to see if there’s any physical reason causing pain that may be triggering the problem on the left side. If all is OK, go back to basics, using just a cavesson, and lead her around the circle on the left rein without any pressure or expectation. If she goes round quietly, reward her and end the session. Repeat over several sessions until she calmly walks round on the left rein. Gradually increase the distance between you. Remember that a horse who is mentally or physically tired will start to resist, so stop working before this occurs. If your mare is happy to work in long reins, this may be a better option than lungeing. If this doesn’t resolve the problem, I suggest you find a specialist to help.