How to Break a Horse to Ride
Breaking a horse can be a long process that requires time and patience to be done correctly. This process can be time consuming but after all of the steps are concluded you will be assured that you can be confident in riding your horse in a calm and trusting manner.
- Make sure that the horse you are working with is very comfortable with you and is accepting of commands that it is given.
- Begin training your horse by letting him get used to his saddle and bridle. Walk your horse around with these items on to make sure he is comfortable wearing them. Calmly talk to your horse while you are walking.
- Start slowly putting weight on the saddle when you feel that your horse is ready. Make sure that you have another person who is also familiar with your horse to help you out. Place one of your feet in the stirrup of the saddle. If your horse seems calm, then you can step down on the stirrup allowing the horse to feel your weight. You may need to do this a few days in a row until your horse gets used to the weight.
- Proceed by leaning your body onto the horse over the saddle when your horse is comfortable with minimal weight. This will allow you to see if he stays calm with the weight of your entire body on him. Continue sessions leaning over your horse until he is completely calm.
- Swing your leg over the horse and sit on the saddle when you feel that your horse is comfortable with the weight of your body. Sit on your horse a number of days in a row until you are sure that he is comfortable with you sitting upright on him.
- See if your horse can be encouraged to walk. With another person on the ground next to you mount your horse and give him the command to walk. Have your horse walk a few steps and then dismount him. You should continue having your horse walk farther and farther each day until he is completely comfortable carrying a rider and follow commands.