Sick of getting bitten!

[ninkie]

As the subject states I have a bit of an issue with my horse biting.

I have had him about 7 months and the biting started after about a week. I can't really figure out why he does it or how to stop it.

He doesn't do it all the time, it seems to be when he is frustrated with something eg not being quick enough to put his head collar on when bringing him in for his tea/turning him out in the morning, being led the to/from the field. He is now out 24/7 and he will do it when I am changing his rug/checking him, but then you can be in the stable with him, grooming etc and he won't do it at all, He isn't bothered if he's eating his tea either. He also seems to know not to do it to children.

I have tried ignoring it and telling him off for doing it and neither seems to make any difference.

I have made a point of never giving him treats or tit bits. 

It isn't really vicious, more of a nip at clothes. He knows he isn't really supposed to do it as sometimes he reacts like he has been told off when he is just about to it. 

I don't really know much about his history as he came over from Ireland and I bought him from a dealer but he isn't a frightened horse.

Any suggestions greatly appreciated.

[eskvalleystud]

If it were myself personally I'd want an IH associate to come and assess him, so very tricky to diagnosis without meeting him and seeing what triggers the biting. Insecurities with his 'leader' perhaps? Maybe he feels secure in his stable more, he sounds like their is a distinct lack of respect and he settled in to new life and he decided to test your leadership? He could also have pain, perhaps inconsistent, could be multitude of different reasons hence why I,d get a IH out and also vet / physio check , good luck!

[robrocks]

Sounds like your his playmate(to his way if thinking) and he wants to be the boss. Every time you handle him make him move back a stride of two as a more dominant horse would make him do. If he bites you, grab a bit of him with your hand to emulate a bite and Then move him back. When he submits and moves back pat him and let him stand then lead him forward letting him close to you again. I have many ponies and have seen this several times...at least! Can be sorted within s few sessions.

[xxvanessaxx]

Ism the same my colt was so well mannered until he went on livery he has come back biting and when u shout at him he ignores it but runs off when he as bitten you if you tap him he walks off and comes back for another go he isn't fed tip bits just want to get him out of it as don't enjoy being in the stable with him ATM xxxx