How to Stop a Horse from Rearing While It Is Being Led

A rearing horse is a dangerous horse whether under saddle or being led. The reasons for rearing are many: In most cases the horse is frightened and feels trapped by either the rider or the one leading. Sometimes the horse rears because it doesn't understand what you are asking and becomes frustrated. Occasionally, pain is the cause of rearing, and then there are horses that want to do things their way and not yours. In all cases, the horse can be retrained although some individuals will take longer to respond than others.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter, preferably rope
  • Lead rope
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Place a halter and lead rope on your horse in its stall where there are few distractions.

    • 2

      Pull straight down on the lead rope, exerting a light and steady pressure, while using a command such as "easy" or "relax" or "down." Release the pull as soon as your horse responds to the command. Do not pull any harder than necessary, as a horse will often learn to brace against a pull.

    • 3

      Ask your horse to lower its head more each time you ask. A horse cannot rear if its head is low, and a horse that lowers its head is also more relaxed and less likely to respond by rearing or trying to run away.

    • 4

      Lead your horse down the barn aisle or around a small corral when it responds to you head-down command in the stall. Ask your horse to lower its head several times, then ask a friend to create a few distractions, such as waving a piece of paper or making a loud noise. Soon your horse will respond to your head-down command on cue regardless of the situation.