Introduction
Even the most skilled horse riders can find it difficult to mount a horse from the side. Although it is possible to mount horses from the ground, it’s much safer and easier to do so when the horse is still standing. It takes patience, consistency, and the correct training techniques to get a horse to stand still when he is being mounted on the side. Any horse can learn to mount on the side-side with the right guidance and practice.
The basics of training
It takes patience, consistency, as well as the right techniques to train a horse to stand still while being mounted on its side. Start with the basics, and then build on them as the horse grows. These are some tips to help horses learn how to stand still while being ridden.
1. Establish Trust
Establishing trust is the first step to training horses to mount on the off-side. Horses are naturally cautious of humans so it is crucial to establish trust with your horse. Spend some time with your horse and interact with them. When they respond positively to your commands, praise and treat them.
2. Get started with groundwork
After you have built trust with your horse, you can begin the foundation work. Begin by teaching your horse how to react to cues, such as body language, verbal commands and touch. After your horse has learned to respond to these cues reliably, you can teach them how to mount on the side.
3. Teach the basics of standing still
After your horse has learned to respond to your cues reliably, you can teach them how to stand still. Begin by getting to know your horse and teaching them how to stop when you touch their side. When they are correct, praise them and give them treats. You can begin teaching your horse to mount on the side-side once they are standing still.
4. Try mounting on the off-side
It is time to start practicing mounting on the opposite side of your horse once they are standing still. Begin by standing next to your horse and touching their feet while you command them to stop. When they are successful, praise them and give them treats. You can mount your horse on the opposite side of a mounting block as you get more familiar with the process.
Additional Training Techniques
There are some additional techniques that can be used to help horses stand still when they mount on the side. These are some tips to help horses learn how to mount on the side.
1. Use a Lead Rope
A lead rope can be used to keep your horse still when you mount. While you mount, attach the lead rope to your horse’s halter. Then hold the other end of the rope with one hand. This will keep your horse in place and make it easier to mount.
2. You can practice in different locations
It is important to practice different positions once your horse is able to stand still and mount on the off-side. This will make your horse more comfortable when he is standing still to mount in different environments. Reward them when they are correct in responding to different situations with praise and treats.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is an essential part of teaching horses to mount on the side. When your horse responds to your commands correctly, praise them and give them treats. This will reinforce their behavior and make it easier to learn.
Conclusion
It can be difficult to teach a horse how to mount on the side. However, with patience, consistency and the right training techniques, it is possible. First, establish trust. Next, work on the fundamentals of standing still. You can then practice mounting your horse on the other side from the ground or from a block. You can also use a lead rope and practice in different places. Positive reinforcement is another option to help your horse learn. Any horse can learn to mount on the side with the right guidance and practice.