How to Teach a Horse to Back Up

If you've ever been to a horse show, you know that horses are judged on their ability to back up. It's an important skill that can be used in everyday situations, such as backing out of a trailer. Follow these steps to teach your horse to back up.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Halter your horse and stand slightly to the side of him. You need to turn toward your horse so you're facing him.

2. See which of the horse's front feet is positioned further forward than the other. That is the foot you'll want him to move first. So, if the horse's front left foot is furthest forward, you should gently steer the horse's head toward the right side. He will shift his weight onto the right foot, making it more natural for him to move the left foot.

3. Use your hand to gently apply some pressure to the horse's chest. Keep applying pressure until the horse takes a step back. Use a verbal cue, such as "back."

4. Shift the horse's head to the other side and repeat the procedure.

5. Add a saddle and repeat the steps. Then, add a rider and continue to practice.

6. Replace the halter and lead rope with a bridle and reins. The rider should use the reins to give a light squeeze and release to signal to the horse to back up. You should stay on the ground and, as the rider gives the cue with the reins, use your hand to apply pressure to the horse's chest as you did before. Eventually, you will step back, and the rider's cue will be enough.

Tips & Warnings

• Start slowly--taking only one or two steps is a big accomplishment. Backing up is an unnatural movement for horses, so be patient.
• Never mistreat your horse. You should be firm, not rough.

Resources

• Petcaretips.net has more information about training your horse.
• Visit equusite.com for additional horse training tips.