How to Load a Horse Into a Trailer Without Risks

Trailer loading is one of the biggest challenges horse owners face. Many young horses who have never been on a trailer before are fearful of the small, enclosed space. And many older horses fear trailer loading because of a prior bad experience. But no matter what the reason for the fear, it is important for horse owners to work through those issues gradually if they are to load their animals without any drama.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter
  • Long cotton lead rope
  • Horse trailer
  • Feed bucket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get your horse used to walking through confined spaces by finding a spot on your property where you can walk through a narrow space between two fences. You can create a temporary confined space with a corral panel as well. Walk the horse through that confined space and reassure him as you pass through.

    • 2

      Allow your horse to examine the trailer thoroughly while you hold on to the lead rope. Use a 15-foot soft cotton lead rope to give the horse plenty of room to explore while you maintain control.

    • 3

      Ask your assistant to hold the horse while you open the back of the trailer. Place the divider all the way over to the left to give the horse as large a space to work with as possible. Allow the horse to explore the trailer on his own while you hold the lead rope. Let him take a few steps into the trailer if he wishes, otherwise just let him explore.

    • 4

      Place a bucket of feed in the front of the trailer to provide your horse with some extra encouragement. Allow him to see the bucket as it is placed there.

    • 5

      Walk toward the trailer on the left side of your horse. Slowly move the divider just far enough to walk behind it, then encourage your horse to follow you into the trailer. Allow the horse to take a few steps at a time, and do not be concerned if he moves out of the trailer after a few steps. Continue to encourage your horse to walk onto the trailer, and reward him with feed from the bucket when he does. Continue to move your horse on and off the trailer repeatedly until he simply follows you in.