Homemade Horse Walker

Walking a horse with a horse walker that is not correctly constructed can result in injury to the horse. A correctly constructed horse walker can help exercise the horse and keep him in excellent physical condition. Horse walkers are used for horses of all purposes, including farm horses and Kentucky Derby champions. A correctly constructed horse walker also makes it easier for the horse caretaker or trainer to control the horse, thereby teaching the horse to obey his commands

Things You'll Need

  • Rope
  • Reins
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Locate the rope that is attached to the ring of the reins that are attached to the head of the horse. Attach a three-foot rope to this lead rope utilizing a “quick release” knot. A quick release knot is created in four steps. First, create a loop in the three-foot rope. Pass the end of this rope though the loop. Bring the rope end around to the front of the loop and create a second loop. Pull the second loop through the first loop. This will create a knot. Pull the end of the rope forward. This rope end is used to guide the horse.

    • 2

      Lead the horse forward by pulling the rope. The horse should maintain one foot on the ground at all times. Hold the rope firmly to encourage the horse to keep his head still. The horse should stride in a calm manner, without hesitation. The foot prints of the hind hooves should overlap the footprints of the front hooves. This indicates an even stride. Observe the muscles at the front, back and side of the horse. All of these muscles are used by the horse to maintain healthy fitness.

    • 3

      Pull the lead rope gently to the right or to the left to change the direction in which the horse is walking. Avoid yanking the rope, as this may startle the horse and could cause it to become nervous. Lead the horse to a water area and allow it to drink. Horses that are treated firmly, but kindly, develop trust in the trainer and his leadership. Remove the rope walker by untying the quick release knot. Hang the rope on a nail in the barn to store for future use. Schedule walks at the same time each day to create a routine of which the horse can become accustomed.