How to Train a Horse to Lift His Foot

It is essential that you can touch your horse's feet, and that a horse should be compliant when the farrier or the veterinarian needs to examine or work near or on the feet. It is natural for a horse to offer some resistance when you first begin handling its feet. You need to be patient and consistent and not to expect miracles the first time you attempt this training. It is also very important that you never forget your own safety. Like most types of animal training, it is best to repeat it in short sessions many times, until the horse responds almost automatically.

Things You'll Need

  • A training stick or padded walking cane.
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Instructions

    • 1

      Train your horse to lift its foot in a small enclosed paddock, where he will not come to harm, should he break away. Do not do this is a stable. Choose a time when the horse is not tired, hungry or over-excited. Wear strong shoes. Stand at your horse's shoulder, with your side close to his body, facing toward the tail end. Talk calmly to the horse. Stroke it a few times.

    • 2

      Gently run your hand down the front leg. If the horse struggles, stop. Attempt it again a few minutes later. This is a gradual process, so be prepared to leave it at that for the first session or two, if the horse is showing a lot of unease. Some trepidation on the horse's part is natural, as its feet are an important part of its defense mechanism. If he cooperates, praise him in a soft voice, and give him a few strokes (not pats).

    • 3

      Use the padded walking cane to softly touch the horse's back legs. This should help to desensitize the legs. When the horse is eventually used to having his legs touched, put gentle pressure on the chestnut, which is on the back of the horse's leg. This should cause it to raise its foot. Hold the foot in your cupped hand just for a second or two. Avoid touching postern or coronet areas. Put the foot back on the ground, toe-end first. Always hold the foot in the natural line. If you pull it toward you, this will cause pain.

    • 4

      Gradually work toward having your horse lifting this foot when you use a particular word, or for instance, clicking your fingers three times. Incorporate this foot training into your overall relationship with the horse, where trust is an essential element.