How to Train Your Horse to Lie Down

Teaching a horse to lie down is an exceedingly delicate proposition. More than any other trained behavior, whether simple riding commands or more complex tricks, a horse's lying down depends on a strong trust bond between horse and trainer. For this reason, methods that depend on force, like lead-rope lying, are less reliable than simpler training methods, which may take more time and commitment from the trainer.

Things You'll Need

  • Clicker (optional)
  • Treats (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Make sure your horse has a large area in which to lie down, large enough not only to reach the ground, but also to roll around freely. If the horse feels restricted when it lies down, it is much less likely to do so.

    • 2

      Encourage the horse indirectly at first. Find out when the horse might like to lie down or roll, such as after a long ride, and control those circumstances. Take the horse out for a long ride, for example, and then wait for the horse to lie down or roll when you return.

    • 3

      Praise the horse when it lies down, and provide whatever reward you train with, whether you use a clicker, a treat of some kind, or a scratch or tickle. The horse will soon associate the reward with lying down.

    • 4

      Do not let the horse lie down except when you are there to praise and provide a reward. If you are not there, the association between lying down and reward will be weakened, and the horse will take a longer time to learn the behavior.

    • 5

      Keep a regular schedule, but do not set a deadline for the horse to learn the trick. Keep up with your encouragement and allow the horse to move at its own pace. The key to success is trust.