Discipline & the Trail Horse

If the horse is being naughty or feisty there is no need to whip the horse or be aggressive a few rounds in the round pen or on the lunge line generally convince him to stop the foolish behaviour. However if hes an experienced horse that knows better an aggressive horse or if the kicking becomes a pattern then you need to deal with it. Raising your hands and voice and rushing his flank some whip contact or using a horsemans stick with a plastic bag attached to the end are good ways to let the horse know that the behaviour is not acceptable. If the horse is extremely aggressive actually attacking you and does not respond to reasonable discipline then you may need to find a good trainer or a different equine partner.
If the horse is new in training new to you fresh in from the field or very low in hierarchy among other horses then misbehaving is often a symptom of genuine fear and may be combined with confusion. In these instances you need to be very patient but firm and continue to complete the task at hand working through the problem with repetition. Be careful to release pressure with any small success. If you are not sure whether the horse is genuinely afraid confused or just testing you use repetition of simple tasks to give the horse confidence and to instill your presence as the alpha being who is in control.
For example you are riding circles in the arena and the horse begins acting out by tossing his head not giving his face and even crowhopping. Regardless of whether the horse is afraid confused or spoiled you need to work through the problem by continuing with the activity until the horse settles down and accepts your presence and control. This may mean simply riding through the same exercise repeatedly until the horse accepts it or it may require dismounting and doing simple ground work until your authority is established before continuing with the exercise.
With the frightened or confused horse two things are certain never use force and strike the horse and never walk away or quit the activity until you get the desired response and the horse understands that you are in control. Always end these sessions with an affectionate touch. Treats are acceptable
For this reason I always remind the horse prior to our ride with a