Shires that won't stop leaning on each other!

Newbie Joined: 11 Dec 2012 Posts: 3 Location: Essex

Hi all! I need some help with two shires that won't stop leaning on each other. The two male shires are 4 and 7. The 7 year old-Joe- is an experienced Shire and has been shown in single and pair classes for a number of years. Joe has recently been joined by Bernie, a 4 year old male. Bernie has been shown in hand over the last season. His training has now stepped up a gear and he has
regularly been out for the past few months pulling our training wagon with his pal Joe. At first all was going very well but for the last couple of weeks Bernie has started to lean on Joe as he goes along. He leans when walking and he leans in trot and constantly has his head turned to the left. Bernie leans on Joe so much that at times he is close to slipping over side ways (no exaggeration!). Joe in turn has to lean back in order to not be pushed onto the other side of the road.
Has anyone come across this before and if so - what do you suggest!?
Thanks for any help - Andy

Friend for Life Joined: 11 Mar 2010 Posts: 1289

Do they always go on the same side if so you could try swopping them round to see what happens Smile

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Posted: Wed Dec 12, 2012 3:51 pm

No idea sorry but there will be a few experianced people along soon I'm sure.

Hope you get it sorted but feel really sorry for poor Joe. Bless him

Newbie Joined: 11 Dec 2012 Posts: 3 Location: Essex

That's a good suggestion. We were considering trying that though cautious because it will put an inexperienced horse next to the traffic. It's good to hear someone suggesting swapping them, it helps confirm our thoughts. Is this something you've experienced/tried - if so what was the outcome?

Thanks for your time

Friend for Life Joined: 11 Mar 2010 Posts: 1289

Hi andy no its not, but knowing how quick these lads can get into bad habits the first option is to change the situation, if you get stuck try contacting jim elliot or john Owen at beamish museum they do a lot of ploughing ect and should be able to put you right Smile

Posted: Thu Dec 13, 2012 10:08 am

I would also try swapping them over, we have a friesian who when driven on the outside, leans outwards and tucks his head into the inside horse (i know its the opposite promblem you have! lol) we swapped him to the inside and he goes perfectly straight.

For your lad it maybe a comfort thing? Or that he feels 'boxed in'? If only they could talk!

Friend for Life Joined: 25 Jun 2008 Posts: 3141

Definitely try swapping them over to break the habit.

Newbie Joined: 11 Dec 2012 Posts: 3 Location: Essex

Thanks for all your suggestions... Weather permitting we will have the boys out this weekend, ill let you all know how we get on!