Speaking generally, we may consider jibbing to be the determined manifestation of stubbornness in the horse.

Acting on the sound principle that we should apply no more coercion to the animal than is absolutely necessary, we should at first try the effect of driving the jibber, on foot, with the long reins (see page 172). After it has consented to go quietly without anyone on its back, we may put an assistant in the saddle without giving him the reins, and continue driving the animal until it moves freely in every direction. The rider may then take the reins, and circle and turn the animal several times before taking it for a regular ride. If the horse resolutely sulks, the breaker, to expedite matters, may make it lie down with the proper tackle and hold it down, with its head turned round (see page 158), until it, apparently, gives in; after which it may get another trial at circling. If it still resists, it should be put down again, and, so on, for three, or four times. This change of discipline is most efficacious for the jibber, who quickly seems to recognise the fact, that the irksome constraint on the ground is a punishment for its misbehaviour. Having failed, after putting forth all its powers of opposition, to resist the one form of coercion, it will have but little energy left to stiffen its neck against the other. By adopting this plan with patience, as well as firmness, and without using the whip, except to crack it, the breaker ought to succeed with almost any jibber in one lesson of a couple of hours’ duration. The desired effect can be produced much easier in a secluded enclosure, than in the open. I believe I have been the first to employ this method of making a horse lie down in combination with the driving on foot as a remedy for jibbing.

It is not uncommon to meet with, in the mounted branches of the Army, horses that will go anywhere in company, but will refuse to quit the ranks by themselves, or to act as single riding horses. This peculiarity; the habit of trying to shoulder the rider’s leg up against a wall, tree, or other convenient object; and all other forms of jibbing, should be treated in the manner just described.

For jibbing in harness, see page 236.