How to Walk a Horse With a Shank

All horses learn by the theory of applying and releasing pressure. When a horse does what is expected of it, all pressure is released. When a horse misbehaves, pressure is applied. When walking a horse on a lead rope, pressure is applied by tightening and loosening your grip on the lead rope and shank. If the horse tries to bolt ahead of you, grip the lead rope and shank more tightly. Once the horse is walking calmly, release the pressure by holding the shank loosely.

Things You'll Need

  • Lead rope with shank
  • Halter
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Instructions

    • 1

      Attach the lead rope with the shank to the bottom ring on the horse's halter.

    • 2

      Stand on the left side of the horse.

    • 3

      Place your right hand about 1 ft. down from the lead shank. Do not grip the lead rope too tightly or too close to the lead shank. Horses that are gripped too tightly will fight to relieve the pressure.

    • 4

      Place the excess lead in a loop and fold it loosely in your left hand.

    • 5

      Position your body at the horse's head. Do not walk in front or behind of the horse's head or you will be giving your horse the wrong signal.

    • 6

      Extend your right arm out and make a clucking noise to cue the horse to move forward. If the horse crowds you, use your right elbow to move it off of you.

    • 7

      Continue walking the horse forward with a relaxed grip. Only tighten your grip when the horse misbehaves and then quickly go back to a relaxed grip.