Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
- Halter
- Lead Rope
- Safe place to tie your horse
Step1
Create a safe, clear area to train the horse in. Make sure you have something sturdy to tie your horse to. Fences may not be ideal since they may be broken if your horse decides to test the rope by pulling on it.
Step2
Lead the horse up to the training area and give him the signal to stand. Praise the horse if he stands quietly. If the horse moves, simply reposition him again and give the command to stand. Repeat this until the horse stands quietly.
Step3
Release the end of the lead and allow it to hang without holding it. Move around the horse, rubbing him as you move so that standing is rewarded. Again, if the horse moves, simply reposition him and give the command to stand again.
Step4
Slide the lead around whatever you are going to tie the horse to and put a little pressure on the lead. Wait until the horse gives to the pressure and lowers his head then immediately release the lead again. The release of pressure on the lead is the reward to giving in. Once the horse consistently gives into the pressure, go to the next step.
Step5
Tie the lead with a knot that you can release quickly. Make sure that there's enough length in the lead so that the horse can move his head and look around but not where the horse could get a leg or head around the rope. You can also add a bag of hay or grain so that the horse can relax and eat while tied.
Step6
Begin tying the horse in short periods. About five minutes is good enough for the first time. Then begin lengthening the amount of time the horse is tied. Always keep an eye on the horse to look out for problems. In order to stand quietly, while tied or not, the horse needs to feel comfortable and safe being confined. Soon the command to stand will work anytime, during grooming, baths, or in a trailer.
