Why Your Horse Won’t Try Anymore
In this episode of Come Ride With Me, we’re flipping the script on rider perfectionism and taking a hard look at how our need to control every moment — in and out of the saddle — can shut down our horse’s ability to think, learn, and self-regulate.
From micromanagement to mistake-shaming, we explore why so many domestic horses struggle with emotional resilience and how riders may unknowingly create defensive, shutdown, or “difficult” behaviors through pressure and overcorrection.
You’ll learn:
Why obedience isn’t the same as confidence
How frustration and fear of punishment affect your horse’s brain
What behavior science and equine neuroscience (including Dr. Steve Peters’ work) reveal about learning under pressure
Simple ways to rebuild trust and offer your horse the space to think again
If you’ve ever wondered why your horse seems hesitant, anxious, or like they’ve stopped trying altogether — this episode is for you.
✨ Let go of perfection. Reclaim your partnership. And make room for a curious, thinking horse again.
🎧 Listen now.
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Email me at anna@equusenlightened.net
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Happy Riding!