Bucking when asked to canter!

Asking too fast? Sorry but whoever dreamed up that response was - well dreaming. Horses go from a dead stop to a run when they are working cattle. Race horses start from a stand still at the gate, reiners lope out of a pattern. No counting, just the expectation they will move out.

After checking that everythings ok physically and with the saddle you might need to work the horse out. I used to ride a horse that only walked and trotted, and not in the most physically helpful way. Therefore he was unbalanced and bucked. Working with your horse on hilly or making sure he's using his hind end will help with fitness and may stop this habit.
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It is a behavior issue. He has trained his riders to pull him up and to not ask for much. Why would you do much if you can get out of it by bucking or crow-hopping?

The best way I have found to 'ride a horse through' this kind of behavior is to get him really tired and then push him very hard into a fast canter / gallop. You have to get after him as hard as it takes to get him to move out. You cannot pull him up or give into him. If you cannot do this, then he is not going to work for you and needs a stronger rider.

This is not a confidence building horse for you. I would really think your best option would be to lease / ride a more honest horse that wants to work instead of wanting to get out of working for you. Just what the years have taught me.

Saddle fit could very well be the problem, but it could also be a behaviour related issue. Does he pin his ears and/or become tense when you ask for the gait?

Thankyou horsenaround123 I will give it a try!