How to Train Horses With Spurs

Spurs are tools used by horse trainers to encourage horses to move forward. Trainers use spurs on horses that tend to balk, be lazy, or that need to pick up speed quickly. Spurs are small metal studs that attach to the rider's boot or shoe, and can be anything from simple bumps to sharp spines that can cause real damage to the horse if not used carefully.

Things You'll Need

  • Round pen
  • Saddle
  • Bridle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Ride the horse with a saddle and bridle in a round pen when you first use spurs. The additional sensation might be more than your horse expected, and it may try to bold or buck. A smaller, more confined space is recommended.

    • 2

      Saddle and work the horse in the round pen as you normally would. After the initial warm up, attach your spurs to your shoes or boots. Make sure that you do not jab the spurs into your horse's sides after attaching them. Keep your toes pointed in toward your horse's shoulders to avoid using your heels, at least at the beginning.

    • 3

      Apply the first pressure from the spurs in a very light manner, slowly making contact with the horse's flesh and increasing if needed in intensity. Most horses will react with great interest when you first apply the spurs to their sides, so be ready.

    • 4

      Increase the pressure of the spurs if no favorable response is offered by the horse. Increases should be gradual, made without temper, and should not be harsh or sudden. The horse needs to understand you are asking it for something, rather than forcing it to do something. Decrease spur size and intensity if the horse overreacts to them, or increase size if the horse ignores them.

    • 5

      Ride the horse with your spurs until you are both comfortable with the spurs and with what they are supposed to do.