How to Train a Horse to Stand

John Lyons is famous for his conditioning methods when training horses. The basis of Lyons' technique hinges on creating a bond with the horse and developing solid ground manners. Standing still is one of the core lessons -- essential for safety when approaching a horse in pasture, having him stay calm and still while being touched, groomed, saddled and mounted. Here are the steps to achieving this first milestone while bonding with your horse.

Things You'll Need

  • Horse
  • Round pen or paddock
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Instructions

    • 1

      Walk into the middle of the round pen or paddock. The horse should be looking at you. Walk toward him. If he puts his rear end toward you, or moves away from you, wave your arms or make a kissing noise to get him moving off more quickly around the perimeter of the pen for a few laps.

    • 2

      Stop waving your arms. The horse should stop and look at you. If he stops with his rear facing you, continue Step 1 until he stops and turns to face you. Take one step backward. This is his reward for stopping -- you're walking backward to tell him the pressure is off, he doesn't have to run around if he stands and looks at you.

    • 3

      Walk toward him again. Every time it looks like he's going to move, stop where you are. Back up a few steps. This gets him thinking that you are not forcing him to stand, you're asking him to relax.

    • 4

      Using this walking forward, then back a few steps, then forward again routine gets the horse used to standing and waiting for you. Walk right up to his nose and reach a hand up to rub him between the eyes. That's his reward for standing still and waiting for you.

    • 5

      Turn and walk away. Turn back and walk right back to his nose and rub him on the face again. Repeat frequently. He will soon learn that standing still gets him love and attention, and that as long as he stands still he doesn't have to run around and work.