Horse behaviour problems can be worrying, frustrating, and sometimes dangerous — especially when they appear suddenly or seem to have no obvious cause. From mounting issues to resistance during handling, behaviour is often a horse’s way of communicating discomfort, confusion, or anxiety.
This Horse Behaviour section is written by a horse person, for horse people. It focuses on understanding the reason behind the behaviour first, then addressing it calmly, safely, and fairly.
If your horse’s behaviour has changed or something doesn’t feel quite right, these guides will help you identify possible causes and practical next steps.
Mounting is one of the most common times behaviour issues show up. Because it places uneven pressure on the horse’s back and saddle, problems here often point to discomfort, habit, or confusion.
Many behaviour problems are actually signs of pain or physical discomfort. Recognising this early helps prevent long-term issues and protects your horse’s welfare.
Most behaviour problems aren’t about bad manners or stubborn horses. They’re about communication. When you slow down, rule out discomfort, and stay consistent, many issues improve far faster than you’d expect.
A mounting block seems like a simple bit of kit — but using it correctly can make a huge difference to your horse’s comfort, your saddle’s stability, and your own safety. If your horse fidgets, walks off, swings away, or feels unsettled during mounting, a mounting block is often one of the fastest ways to … Read more
When a horse won’t stand still for mounting, many owners are quick to assume it’s a training or manners issue. In reality, pain is one of the most common underlying reasons horses move away during mounting — and it’s often subtle enough to go unnoticed. Horses are prey animals. They are exceptionally good at hiding … Read more
If your horse moves, fidgets, or walks away when you try to mount, saddle fit is one of the first things that should be considered — yet it’s often one of the last. Many horses that won’t stand still for mounting are not being awkward or disobedient. They are responding to discomfort caused by the … Read more
Teaching a horse to stand still for mounting is one of those things many owners assume their horse should “just know”. In reality, standing quietly while a rider climbs aboard is a learned behaviour — and one that needs to be taught clearly and consistently. If your horse fidgets, steps away, swings their quarters, or … Read more
A horse that walks off when you try to mount can quickly turn a simple task into a daily frustration. You line them up at the mounting block, put your foot in the stirrup — and off they go. Sometimes it’s a slow step forward, sometimes a sideways swing, and sometimes a complete walk-off. Many … Read more
A Common Problem Many Owners Struggle With A horse that won’t stand still for mounting is one of the most frustrating — and common — problems riders face. Whether your horse walks off, fidgets, swings away, or refuses to line up at the mounting block, the issue can quickly turn something simple into a daily … Read more