How to Use Hobbles

Hobbles are used to immobilize a horse when there is nowhere for them to be tied. Any horse can learn this but only experienced people should attempt to use them to train animals. Lots of patience and treats are helpful in training. Do not expect a horse to learn and be comfortable with wearing hobbles in one session.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter Lead Rope Hobbles
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Instructions

    • 1

      Teach the horse to stand still on command. With halter and lead rope on the horse, tell the horse to stop and then step away from it. If it moves, calmly put it back until where it was until it learns to stand still on cue.

    • 2

      Drop the line so you can move farther away from the animal. If it moves calmly put it back where it started.

    • 3

      Place the hobbles on the horse. Move the horse's leg so it realizes its movement is constricted. Take off the hobbles.

    • 4

      Place the hobbles on the horse and cue it to stand still while you walk away. Remove the hobbles and praise the animal.

    • 5

      Place the hobbles on the horse whenever movement restriction is desired.