Backing up

[Emmaa]

My horse Dakota has a problem with backing up. The problem is, he won't. Whenever I have him in the crossties, he always moves way up, and he won't back up when I want him to. I have tried to get him to by digging my thumb/hand into his chest, but he won't listen. Any suggestions on what I can do? Any would be greatly appreciated, thanks alot!
Emmaa :)

[Maci]

One way to get your horse to back up is to show him who's boss. When you're jabbing your thumb into his chest, tell him in a loud, stern voice to 'Back Up!' If that doesn't work, try having someone else keep tapping him firmly with a crop, and keep telling him to 'Back Up!' Give him lots of praise when he does back up, no matter what way you do it.
Good Luck!
Maci :)

[Wally]

Remember to reward even the slightest move to go back. Even if he shifts his weight back to start with, but doesn't move a foot reward him. Then once he realises this is a good thing to do he will give a whole foot back then a step back.