How to Train an Old Horse to Neck Rein

While it is generally more challenging to teach an old horse new things, it is not impossible. Neck reining is an important thing for a horse to know, even if he is ridden with a direct rein most of the time. Teaching an older horse to neck rein will make trail riding easier, since it will allow the rider to negotiate obstacles and open gates with a single hand. It does take some patience to teach a horse that has never neck reined before, but gaining that new skill will be worth the effort.

Things You'll Need

  • Bridle
  • Saddle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the bridle and saddle on your horse. When choosing a bridle make sure you use a nonjointed bit. Jointed bits, like snaffles, are designed to work with direct rein pressure, and using one to teach a horse to neck rein will be confusing.

    • 2

      Mount your horse and begin to ride. Use your inside hand to gently apply a direct rein, while at the same time using your outside hand to place rein pressure on the horse's neck.

    • 3

      Slowly reduce the amount of direct rein pressure you apply, while at the same time strengthening the pressure on the neck rein. The amount of time and effort it takes to get the horse neck reining consistently will vary from horse to horse. Some older horses will catch on right away, while others will require months of patient work.

    • 4

      Use a slightly heavier rein if your horse is not progressing at neck reining. Older horses sometimes need a bit more rein pressure, and using a heavier rein will provide that extra pressure. If the horse does not respond to the neck rein alone, be sure to follow up with a slight tug on the direct rein. The horse will begin to associate the pressure on the neck with the turn.