Instructions
Lead the horse from its left side with your right hand holding the lead rope 6 to 8 inches below the horse's head. The excess lead rope should be held loosely in your left hand. Don't coil the lead rope around your hand, wrap it around any body part or allow it to drag the ground. You should be walking even with the horse's shoulder as you lead it.
Approach the gate. Stop your horse before it reaches the gate. Use your left hand to unfasten any latches or clasps that hold the gate closed. Keep the excess lead rope in your left hand as you push it open. Don't completely open the gate if there are other horses or animals nearby that you don't want to go through it.
Lead your horse through the gate. (Most horse gates swing in both directions; open it in whatever direction is easiest for you.) Because you're holding the lead rope close to the halter, the horse will automatically follow you through the gate. When you turn to close the gate behind you, the horse should turn, too. If the horse doesn't move its entire body out of the way of the gate so that you can close it (usually only an issue if you've pushed in on the gate), press against the horse's side to move it over.
Pull the gate closed behind you; then hold it so you can refasten any latches or snaps, keeping one hand on the lead rope. Once the gate is secured, resume leading the horse properly.
How to Open a Gate When Leading a Horse
Gates are a basic and essential part of equestrian life; they keep horses from escaping their pastures, and people and animals from entering areas they shouldn't. Leading a horse through a gate that you first have to open or unlock can take practice if you're not used to handling horses. Fortunately, most horses lead fairly well and, with some basic knowledge and practice, you should be able to quickly get the hang of negotiating gates while leading your horse.