Zum can be nervous, hyper and insecure on the trails at first. It is hard for him to relax. He needs room and exercise to burn off all his energy. I make a conscious effort to be calm and patient. Other horse people get angry with their horses. When I ride with them, they encourage me to force Zum to do things also. But I know from experience that a hyper horse that cannot relax is only made worse by punishing his mouth by pulling on him. This aggravates the horse and he only feels more worry or panic. My colt needs understanding and reassurance, not punishment.
