How to Connect a Thoroughbred Stallion Lead Chain

Bred and raised for racing, thoroughbred stallions are large horses, standing between 16 to 16.2 hands high. Connecting this type of horse onto a lead chain usually helps you maintain control over him. But sometimes when handling a thoroughbred stallion, a stronger lead -- or lead shank -- is needed, due to the horse's strength. This is used with these horses for hand-breeding or if the horse is being obstinate. Stallions, which are uncastrated males, can have difficult temperaments. If the horse does not respond to a normal lead, switch to a lead shank under the chin to command him more effectively.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter
  • Stud chain -- 24 to 30 inches
  • Lead rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Unbuckle the halter for your thoroughbred stallion, and hold it in your left hand. Grasp the horse's mane with your right hand. Gently guide the horse's head down slightly.

    • 2

      Slip the halter over the horse's nose, so the noseband part of the halter is set into place around and just above the nose area. Grasp the crown piece with the right hand, and pull it up and over the ears. Strap the crown piece over the neck and behind the ears. Buckle it into place.

    • 3

      Adjust the halter, if necessary. The nosepiece should rest 2 inches below the bony part of the cheek.

    • 4

      Insert the snap end of a 24-to-30-inch stud chain through the ring on the left side, between the nosepiece and cheekpiece. Pull the chain up and over the noseband, and wrap it around once.

    • 5

      Pull the chain through the ring on the opposite side or right side of the noseband. Insert the chain through ring under the halter. Clip the snap end of the chain to the triangular fitting at the opposite end.

    • 6

      Clip the lead rope to the triangular fitting.