How to Solve a Barn-Sour Horse Problem

If you are dealing with a barn-sour horse, one that does not want to leave the barn or that wants to rush back to the barn after a ride, you know that it's no fun and can be dangerous. However, you don't need to be stuck with this misbehavior forever. With plenty of patience and perseverance, you can reform even the worst barn sourness.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter
  • Lead rope
  • Dressage whip
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Instructions

  1. Leaving the Barn

    • 1

      Put a halter and lead on your horse, then stand on his left side, placing your left hand close to the halter. Carry the whip in your right hand. Now ask him to move forward. If he is reluctant to do so, gently tap him on his left hip with the whip until he does.

    • 2

      Turn in the direction you are pushing him and walk forward with him for five or six strides. Stop and praise him. Turn back to the barn and without rushing, return to your starting point and repeat. Do this several times, slowly letting out more rope as you do.

    • 3

      Follow the same procedure and lead him from the right side when he appears comfortable with leading away from the barn with you on the left.

    • 4

      Slowly increase the distance you travel before turning back. Be sure to praise him each time he walks with you willingly.

    Returning to the Barn

    • 5

      Walk your horse back to the barn after riding (never ride back to the barn because you don't have as much control). Each time your horse tries to speed up, stop and wait for several minutes. You may want to turn him in small circles if he continues to speed up or especially if he tries to rear.

    • 6

      Ride him in an arena for 15 to 20 minutes upon your return from a trail ride. Change directions frequently to keep his mind occupied.

    • 7

      Tie him in his stall or cross-tie him in the alley way for 10 or 15 minutes after the arena work and before you put him away. Leave him tacked while he waits. Most horses, especially barn sour ones, want to return to the barn and get fed. Not putting him away immediately after finishing a ride will make the barn seem less attractive.