How to Teach a Horse to Trail Ride

Many horses enjoy using a trail ride as a break from the show ring and to stretch their legs under tack. It also gives your horse and you a change of scenery. You can easily teach your horse to trail ride.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Find a spot where you and your horse can walk around together to relax but not ride. Attach a long lead rope to your horse, and start taking him there for fun walks and grazing. Do this until your horse grows accustomed to the surroundings.

2. Gather friends with their horses and go for a group trail ride around this now familiar area. Make sure that the horses and riders you invite are veteran trail riders. Your horse can then mimic the other horses in the group.

3. Do this at least three or four times with a group. Always encourage your horse and praise it for good behavior.

4. Invite this same group to a different location. Many horses are nervous at the start of a trail ride in unfamiliar surroundings. Having a group of horses that are familar with each other will provide some comfort. Treat your horse gently and encourage it throughout the ride. In time, your horse should settle in and enjoy itself.

5. Continue to practice with a group until both you and your horse are comfortable with each other. Do not attempt any high jumps, and keep to a medium speed. Never go off completely alone. Ride in tandem with someone from your group.

Tips & Warnings

• Never trail ride alone.

[ajmaddox]

on 9/4/2009 Good article. Working with a group is great for horses since they are herd animals!