How to Train a Horse to Trot Alongside You

Horses are elegant creatures, great pets and can become close companions. One activity that many horse owners like to teach their pet is how to trot alongside their owner. Training horses, however, can sometimes be difficult. Because of the size and power of horses it is important to use caution when training a horse. Approach training your horse with a relaxed attitude and never push your horse too hard.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter
  • Rope
  • Whip
  • Pen with a flat wall
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the halter on your horse so that it fits comfortably but will not come off. Attach the rope tightly so that your horse can be led into the pen.

    • 2

      Groom your horse for 10 to 15 minutes. This will help relax the horse and make both of you feel more comfortable. If the horse still feels anxious after 15 minutes, continue until both of you are ready to move on.

    • 3

      Position yourself inside the pen to begin the exercise. Using a pen with a flat wall will keep your horse moving straight. Have the horse stand a few feet away from the wall while you stand on the other side of the horse at shoulder length. You should have a firm grip on the rope.

    • 4

      Teach your horse to step when you step. Before a horse can trot with you it must first learn how to walk with you. Take a step forward and encourage your horse to take a step with you. If your horse does not move give a light tap on the rear with the whip to communicate to the horse what you want him to do. It should never be your intention to harm or punish your horse. If your horse still does not respond give a slightly harder tap until he gets the message and moves forward.

    • 5

      Practice stepping and moving forward with your horse on a daily basis until your horse has learned how to walk with you. Consistency is one of the keys to training your horse, so repeat the training as often as possible.

    • 6

      Teach your horse how to stop. Stopping your horse is as important as getting him started. Get your horse walking alongside you, then stop and stand with confidence. If your horse continues to walk, stick the bottom end of your whip out in front of the horse's chest. Use the lightest pressure necessary to communicate what you would like the horse to do. Repeat this exercise until your horse will stop on command.

    • 7

      Trot with your horse to show him the difference between trotting and walking. Begin by trotting in place and getting the horse's attention. Once you know he is focused, move forward and use your whip to encourage your horse to do the same. Once you get your horse trotting with you, slow it back down to a walk. Jiggle the rope if your horse ever loses focus. Go back and forth between a trot and walk until your horse will do both speeds on command.