Google

How To Use Leading Your Horse To Get Control And Response


I've been around many people who try to lead a horse by controlling their head with a lead rope. They end up pulling or jerking the lead rope and the horse will typically pull back or push around the person with the lead rope.

Ultimately, you want slack in the lead rope while leading your horse because you don't want to pull or jerk him. If your horse moves incorrectly while leading him then you can stop and correct him by making him move his body.

To really be successful in having control the secret is having control over your horse's body. How do you do that? By controlling his feet by making him move his rear end away from you. (Also known as "disengaging the hind quarters) Why this works so well is it alleviates stiffness and tension and almost magically forces your horse to focus on you.

There are few ways to get your horse to move his rear end away from you. Much of the time, you can stand facing his shoulder and point to his hip. If he doesn't move keep pointing and cluck at him. If he still doesn't move, twirl the end of your lead rope at his hip and cluck. If he still doesn't move tap him with the lead rope while clucking at him.

At any time he moves, take the pressure off him immediately. Give him a pat and a "good boy" and ask for another move. Repeat. Then ask for more steps. Remember to do this on both sides of the body too. It won't be long when you will simply point at his hip and he'll move them for you. Do this every day for a while to get it in his mind that you are in control.

Okay. Now that you moved him, turn your body to walk forward while holding your lead line. Something magical happens right here. Your horse suddenly focuses his attention on you. He's very aware of your movement and what you're doing. If he messes up because he was distracted or something scared him, all you have to do is move his rear end again. Eventually your horse will start gauging your pace and keep up with you at the same pace you move.

If your horse starts to get ahead of you while leading, move his hindquarters. If he's lagging behind you, move his hindquarters. If he goes off into La La Land, move his hindquarters.

Having good control leading your horse is perhaps the most basic training technique there is. But it is also the way we get horses in trailers, moving them around, bathing them, and even riding them. This will help teach your horse to be soft and responsive. And if you have a soft responsive horse while you are on the ground, then you will more likely have the same kind of horse while you're sitting in the saddle. And that is the ultimate goal.

About The Author

Andy Curry is a nationally known horse trainer and author of several best selling horse training and horse care books. For information visit his website at www.horsetrainingandtips.com. He is also the leading expert on Jesse Beery's horse training methods which can be seen at www.horsetrainingandtips.com/Jesse_Beerya.htm.

MORE RESOURCES:

RELATED ARTICLES

Your Guide to Cat Breeds
For the first 8,000 years of their relationship with humans, cats pretty much took care of their own breeding. People kept them for one purpose - hunting rodent - and they are already perfectly designed for that.
Wormy Dogs? - Understand Dog Worms Infestation and Their Symptoms
Until a very recent period, dog worms were thought to be of a spontaneous origin, brought about by the influence of heat upon decaying vegetable matter, and it was and still is freely asserted that puppies are born with dog worms inherited from the mother in some mysterious manner while still in uterus. This has been conclusively proven an error and in the minds of all scientists there is no question about dog worms springing from individual eggs and having a complete life history of their own.
Good Dog Care Is Vital
Dog careAccepting responsibility of your new pet friend is truly serious business. Caring for your new best pet friend is rewarding with that I feel good feeling.
Training Your Dog?Is It Worth The Effort Or Is It Just A Waste Of Time?
Many people feel that taking the time to train their puppy or dog isn't worth the effort. What with everything else we have to do these days in our busy lives, whose got the time?Kimberley was just like that.
The Wonderful Siamese Cat
This mysterious cat is originally from the country of Siam, now known as Thailand. Siamese cats were highly esteemed by generations of Siamese monarchs, even to the extent that they resided in the royal palace.
Easy Tips for Healthy Pets
Do you want a long and healthy life for your pets?There are things in our pets' environments that can rob them of precious health and long life. I'm not talking about cars accidents and mean kids in the neighborhood.
Herbs For Your Dog
Herbology, basically, is the use of herbs in the treatment of many types of illness. Herein the emphasis of treatment is based strongly on the specific use of herbal roots, flowers and leaves to stimulate the healing process.
Stop Your Dog From Pulling You Down The Street
From the first day of life on a leash, most dogs learn that by pulling on it, they get to where they want faster. Its the behavior that so many dog owners struggle with.
Dog doors - dog and owner reprieve
Buying dog doors onlineIf you need to buy a dog door then have some fun doing it online. Not only will you find discount prices but you'll have a huge selection of colors, designs, shapes, sizes and multiple features you haven't even thought about.
How to Create Your Own Monster
"You've created your own monster, you know", my mother said ominously. My Rex cat, Houdini, had just burrowed his way inside my sweater for the third time that morning, letting out a squeal of indignation when I tried to resist.
7 Tips To Keep Your Pet Safe On Halloween
Give a Homeless Cat or Dog a Gift of Good Cheer
The holidays are a wonderful time of year, full of excitement , expectation, and celebration.But for many it's also a difficult time.
Determining Skin Disorders In The Aquarium
Many different skin problems can arise in the aquarium. thankfully, through careful observation on a daily basis, they can be diagnosed and treated.
Dog Behavior Training: Methods of Working with a Shy Dog
Shy dogs are more common than most people think, but unfortunately many dogs who suffer from this affliction are never seen by the general public because of their impairment. Shy dogs range from those who scurry away when someone walks by, to those who bite when approached.
Dog Training: Teaching Your Dog Self-Control
Is your dog one of those that pulls at his leash constantly whenever there is a distraction? A child walks by, or he sees another dog? If a cat or small animal scoots by, or if a car wooshes in front of him, does he tug to get closer? Is he hard to manage while visiting the vet, or when you have visitors?If the answer is yes to any of these questions, then your dog training needs to include self-control measures. A child is taught similar things when they are growing up (don't put your hand on the stove, or you can't have a cookie unless you ask, first), a dog requires the same kind of love and attention, too.
Sugar Gliders, Pocket Pets
Many people are searching for different means to have pets. Dogs and cats are not always the best choice of pets for everyone.
Talk to the Animals? Yes! And Whats More, They Talk to Us!
Talk to the animals?Yes.And what's more, they talk to us!If you've ever shared your life with animals, you'll know that they understand most of what you say to them.
The Dangers of Canine Parasites
When you get a puppy, one of the first things that you need to do is make an appointment with the vet to get your new family member his or her vaccinations. Along with any recommended shots, your cuddly canine will probably get a dose of a de-worming formula to rid them of any internal parasites.
Successful Dog Training
Dog TrainingSo, we've got a new best friend that needs some dog training. No different than when we were kids.
Grieving Our Pets Death
Our pets give us so much. They entertain us, listen to our secrets, and give us unconditional love.