How to Train a Harness Horse

Not too long ago horses were the predominant form of transportation, and even today many people enjoy long and leisurely carriage rides. Driving competitions are also popular with horse owners, and an excellent way for horse owners to have fun with their animals. In many ways training a harness horse is the same as training a horse for riding, but there are specific exercises horse owners can use to make sure their horses are safe on the ground and on the road.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter
  • Lead rope
  • Surcingle
  • Long lines
  • Bridle
  • Blinders
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make sure your horse has all the ground work fundamentals mastered before moving on to harness training. Your horse should be responsive and obedient on the ground, with no resistance or bad habits. It should move readily and respond rapidly to your commands with the halter and lead rope. Move your horse around the arena or pasture and make sure he leads obediently. Stop him often and ask him to back and turn--this will focus his attention on you and ensure that he is paying attention.

    • 2

      Attach a surcingle around your horse's middle. The surcingle fastens around the barrel of the horse, much the same way as a girth. But the surcingle also has a series of rings through which you can pass reins and long lines. This device keeps the lines straight and tangle-free.

    • 3

      Run a long line from each side of your horse's bridle and through the rings in the surcingle. Make sure the lines are straight before moving on.

    • 4

      Place blinders on the horse if he is easily distracted. Blinders will not be necessary for every horse, but many young horses benefit from wearing them. The purpose of blinders is to focus the horse's attention straight ahead.

    • 5

      Move to the back of your horse and take a long line in each hand. Slowly urge your horse to move forward at a walk. Move a few steps, then pull lightly on the lines while issuing a firm "whoa" command. Continue this exercise until the horse stops with your voice cue alone.

    • 6

      Continue working with your horse in the long lines until he is turning readily, responding quickly and stopping readily with your voice cues alone. It is important for the horse to be working steadily on the ground before you introduce any type of cart or carriage.