How to Harness a Horse to a Cart

It seems a simple joy,,jaunting down the lane in a stylish horse cart, driving a high-stepping steed for all to admire. But before the cart can jaunt anywhere, the horse must be correctly attached. Most horsemen can manage the challenge of harnessing the horse, as many parts of the harness are similar to other types of horse tack. But the challenge of safely harnessing the horse to the cart can prove daunting. However, with a few simple steps, a willing horse and a little practice, even a novice can get the job done right.

Things You'll Need

  • Horse in harness (breast-collar type)
  • Cart
  • Halter
  • Lead
  • Hitching post or handler
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make certain the cart is the correct size for the horse and driver, and that the harness is compatible with the cart. Some carts have quick-hitch connect clips and can be used only on carts and sulkys set up for them. Also, some carts have narrow shafts that will not accommodate an unusually wide horse or pony. Choose an area with plenty of room for cart and horse, with a clear path for the horse to move forward easily once he is harnessed to his cart.

    • 2

      Harness and bridle the horse. Do not fasten the overcheck rein, if present, to the harness saddle.

    • 3

      Use the halter over the bridle, and tie the horse to the hitching post. Or you can have a handler hold him in place.

    • 4

      Pull the cart quietly up to the horse, with the shafts are on either side. Take care not to strike the horse with the shafts or any other parts of the buggy.

    • 5

      Run the shafts through the loops hanging from the harness saddle, the tugs, until the buggy is in place with the shaft ends reaching only as far as the horse's shoulders.

    • 6

      Attach the traces to either the cart or the appropriate point on the shafts, depending on the design and age of the cart. The traces should run between the girth and the overgirth. The traces transfer much of the drag of the cart to the horse's chest via the breast collar.

    • 7

      Fasten the overgirth tightly around the shafts near the tugs. The overgirth and the tugs are the other crucial connection to the cart, balancing the rest of the cart's weight while keeping the horse centered between the shafts.

    • 8

      Attach the breeching, if present, to the clips on the shafts, or tie them in place. The breeching should not be tight against the horse's hindquarters when he is standing still. Breeching is optional on light loads. It is primarily used to allow the horse to back into the load to stop it.

    • 9

      Run the reins through the rings on top of the saddle. Remove the halter if using one. Hook the overcheck, if you have one, to the hook on top of the harness saddle. Your horse is now harnessed to your cart and ready for adventure. Climb in from the left, gather your reins, and head out.