Like with most animals, horses can be sensitive to their environment and this can lead to a change in their behavior. If you notice your horse slowing down, this is an indicator that something is wrong. Trying to identify the cause for this response will help you to address it and help your horse get back to its best self. There could be a few different core issues that could be the cause of your horse moving more slowly.
1. Physical/Health
- Fatigue – Just like how people slow down when they’re tired, horses can respond similarly. If they have been working or training a lot, this could cause some fatigue. They may also have electrolyte deficiencies that can lead to being tired. Ensuring that they get enough water after exercise and supplementing their electrolyte intake can help them to perk back up.
- Discomfort from saddle/bit – If equipment has not been adjusted properly or is poking into them, they might slow down due to discomfort. Check to make sure that all the straps and fastenings are adjusted to fit.
- Poor nutrition – Not getting enough nutrition can cause a horse to become weak or tired. You may need to change up their diet, provide them with higher quality feed, or monitor their portion intake. Always consult a vet before adjusting their diet.
- Age – The older your horse is, the slower it may become. Depending on the age of your horse, you may need to adjust its work or training routine to make sure that they aren’t being pushed past their limit.
- Hoof Problems – If there are any issues with your horse’s hooves, they may try to communicate with you by moving slower. Check your horse’s hooves for bruises, improper shoeing, or abscesses to help them to be more comfortable while walking.
- Respiratory Issues – If your horse has any respiratory issues, this can cause breathing to be laborious and impact their stamina. Some horses struggle with heaves (equine asthma) or have infections. Consult your vet for the best way to care for your horse.
- Heart Problems – Heart issues can limit endurance and lead to slow and sluggish movement. Look for symptoms of cardiovascular issues, such as coughing, fainting, shortness of breath, or an abnormal gait. If you suspect heart problems, talk to your vet.
2. Environmental
- Weather Conditions – More extreme weather conditions, like snow, excessive heat, or hail, can make your horse resistant to moving around freely, resulting in slow movements.
- Poor Footing – It can be uncomfortable for horses to walk or run if they have poor footing. This can be caused by mud, heavy snow, ice, or deep sand. Do what you can to maintain your stables and land to make moving around easier for your horse.
- Weight Load – Horses move slower if they are burdened with heavy loads or heavier riders. Make sure that they are being properly accommodated for their size, strength, and ability.
- Altitude – If your horse has been relocated to a higher altitude, they may struggle with the change in the thinner air. This can lead to difficulty obtaining oxygen and slower movements. If you can, try to slowly let them adjust, while keeping them hydrated and well fed. They will begin to acclimate over time.
3. Training
- Turning – Since turning requires more effort than walking straight, you may notice your horse slowing down at these points. Be patient while training them, understanding that there is a level of difficulty in the movements.
- Lateral movements – These kinds of movements require a lot of mental effort and focus since the horse may move sideways or keep their head in a different direction than the way their body is moving. Because of this, you may notice them moving slower.
- Complex exercises – If your horse is learning new movements, especially if they are more complicated like lateral movements, it might cause them to move slowly while they think about what step to do next.
4. Mental/Emotional
- Anxiety – Horses are emotional creatures and they may experience stress or anxiety. Try to identify the cause to help them out.
- Change in training routine – If there has been a change in their training routine, they may feel confused or hesitant, leading to more slow, cautious movements. Make any changes gradual to not overwhelm them.
- Lazy – Some horses are simply lazy, due to being understimulated or naturally having lower energy. If slowing down is not the norm for them, try to engage your horse in stimulating and exciting activities regularly.
- Distractions or Fear – A horse can be reluctant to move or hesitant if there is something scary, unfamiliar, loud, or distracting, like other animals.
- Herd Dynamics – Horses are social creatures and can slow down or move minimally if they become separated from their companions or feel insecure. Be aware of its social dynamics and try to keep them consistent.
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