How to Handle and Control a Stallion
Horses are generally magnificent and docile creatures that enjoy the company of people, but a stallion can be very dangerous. In the wild, they are the boss horse and they fight to keep that title. In domestication, they exhibit aggressive behaviors at times. Knowing how to handle and control a stallion is imperative if you are going to keep one.
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Things You'll Need
- Sturdy halter
- Strong lead rope with 30-inch chain
- Helmet
- Long pants and sleeves
- Sturdy leather shoes and gloves
Instructions
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Build a tall, sturdy enclosure for the stallion away from other horses. This can be a completely enclosed box stall in a barn or a paddock with a shelter inside a heavy wood or metal fence with no sharp edges.
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Get a stud chain, which is a 30-inch long chain that clips to the side ring in the halter, then runs up over the nose or through the mouth like a bit, and back through the other ring on the halter, then connects to a lead rope. If the stallion gets unruly while you are leading him, give a sharp tug on the chain and make him back up a few steps.
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Work with the stallion in a calm and unhurried fashion to gain his trust and teach him basic ground commands, such as stop, back up and stand still. Spend time with the stallion when it is not in a breeding situation to establish yourself as the horse's friend, but don't tolerate bad behavior at any time. Teach it to respond to voice commands for better control.
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Use much positive reinforcement with a stallion when you are handling him. Use soothing words, pets and rubbing, along with an occasional food treat to reward good behavior.
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Manage your stallion's behavior according to the situation. Have separate areas for his daily living, hand breeding, and pasture breeding. He will soon learn what behaviors are appropriate in each area and behave accordingly.
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Be consistent. Let the stallion know what you want, then stick to it. You have to establish yourself as his superior and stay in control.
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Tips & Warnings
Always have at least one other person help handle the stallion around other horses, especially mares.
Use a strong, safe halter and lead rope.
Never turn your stallion loose in a pasture that separates your land from your neighbor's. It is against the law in some states.
Know and follow basic horse safety rules.
Never let a child handle or get near a stallion.
Wear a safety helmet, long pants and sleeves, sturdy leather boots and gloves when handling a stallion.
