How to Teach a Horse to Cross Water Without Jumping

If you plan to do any trail riding with your horse, it is essential that he learn how to cross puddles, streams and other water hazards. Even if you plan to do most of your riding in a ring or pasture, there will be times when standing water appears. Teaching your horse to cross water safely is an important step in your training, a step that will increase both your safety and that of your horse. Many horses are nervous about crossing water because they cannot determine how deep that water is. It is up to the trainer to overcome those natural fears and help their horses cross water with confidence.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter
  • Lead rope
  • Saddle
  • Bridle
  • Hose
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make your own water hazard with a garden hose. Puddles in the pasture, ring or paddock will work; otherwise wet a good area of the ground so that there is standing water all around.

    • 2

      Put the halter and lead rope on your horse and lead him up to the standing water. It is not unusual for horses to snort or attempt to pull back, so be sure to keep your horse moving forward, If your horse balks or resists, make him circle to get his attention back on you and then try again. If your horse is very nervous you may want to start by standing to the side and lunging him through the water. Continue to make the circle smaller and smaller as he progresses, until you can confidently walk through the water and have him follow you.

    • 3

      Walk through the puddle yourself and ask your horse to follow you through. Be sure to keep your horse close behind you while you cross the water. Keeping the lead rope relatively short will prevent the horse from simply going around the obstacle.

    • 4

      Work your way up from small water hazards like mud puddles to larger bodies of water like you would see on the trail. If there is a stream in your area ride your horse until you are in its vicinity, then dismount, remove the bridle and attach the halter and lead rope. Lead your horse into the stream the first couple of times, making sure to reward him when he steps into the water instead of attempting to jump the obstacle.

    • 5

      Repeat the process while mounted by gently urging the horse forward. Make your cues as light as possible--cuing your horse to aggressively could cause him to simply jump over the water hazard. If your horse does attempt to jump the water, turn around and go back through. Be sure to reassure your horse with each step until he is comfortable crossing the water while under saddle.