How to Train a Horse to Lead a Yearling

Leading a yearling from the back of another horse requires rider skill, and a responsive, relaxed saddle-horse. Leading a yearling behind your horse -- or "ponying" -- can be dangerous if one of the animals panics and tries to bolt. Ponying builds a young horse's confidence, and is an ideal way to exercise a yearling if handled correctly. Ponying teaches the yearling how to cooperate with other horses, and must be approached in a calm manner.

Things You'll Need

  • Riding horse
  • Yearling
  • Lead rein for yearling
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a relaxed, reliable and level-headed riding horse. The riding horse must remain calm in case the yearling spooks.

    • 2

      Condition your riding horse to accept a rope pulled over or under its body. Train the riding horse to accept another animal bumping into and crowding it.

    • 3

      Place the yearling behind, and slightly to the right-hand side, of the riding horse. Horses naturally follow each other in a nose-to-tail position.

    • 4

      Monitor the yearling's behavior as you move off. A young horse might crowd, bump or bite the riding horse if it is unsure of its position. Speak calmly to the riding horse as everyone moves off together.

    • 5

      Keep the lead rein -- the rein attached to the yearling's bridle -- loose. Do not wrap the rein around your hand; if the yearling bolts it will drag you off the riding horse.

    • 6

      Work the riding horse and the yearling in a safe area during initial training. Walk the riding horse in large circles; it must become accustomed to the presence of the yearling.

    • 7

      Speak to the riding horse in a calm and encouraging voice. Praise the animal when it performs to your satisfaction.