How to Handle a Rearing Horse

When a horse rears, he stands up on his back legs. This is often seen in the wild when a horse asserts his dominance or wants to protect himself from an aggressor. In terms of training, rearing can be extremely dangerous for both the horse and the rider. Horses rear for many reasons but it is predominantly a protest in response to something the rider is asking of him. A rearing habit can be corrected, but only an experienced and educated rider should attempt to address the problem.

Things You'll Need

  • Bridle
  • Arena
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Instructions

    • 1

      Maintain your balance. When a horse rears, the biggest risk to the rider's safety is the possibility of flipping backwards. This could happen when a horse loses his balance. Try to stay in the middle of the saddle by keeping equal weight in both stirrups. Driving your heels down will help.

    • 2
      Let go of the horse's mouth during a rear.

      Let go of your horse's mouth. Many horses will rear in an attempt to avoid pressure on their mouth. It is tempting to grab the reins for balance when a horse rears. Do not do this. Instead, let go of the horse's mouth while maintaining contact with the reins. Grabbing the mane can help.

    • 3

      Lean slightly forward. When a horse rears, the rider can easily be driven backwards by the horse's momentum. This can contribute to the risk of flipping backwards. Send your momentum in the opposite direction by leaning slightly forward. This will also help maintain your balance.

    • 4
      Drive the horse forward with your leg.

      Keep your leg on. Some horses rear to avoid moving forward off the rider's leg. When your horse starts going up, do not grip with your knees. Rather, send your heels down and maintain pressure with your legs on the horse's sides. That way, when her front feet hit the ground, you are ready to drive her forward. When a horse is moving forward, it is difficult to rear.

    • 5

      Determine the cause of the rearing. A rearing habit will rarely disappear without proper training and will often escalate unless addressed. Find out why your horse is rearing. Is he in pain, uncomfortable, confused, defiant? When you determine the reason for the rearing, you can address the problem. The most important tip to remember when riding a horse that rears is: go forward.