What should a horse that has never been ridden know before you ride it?

Answer 1

If a horse has never been ridden before, it is very likely you will have to "Break it" train it to accept a rider. This is not an easy task and takes lots of patience and a good few visit to the ground from its back, it is not like the movies when you see a person jump on a wild horse and gallop off. Firstly the horse has to get used to having something round its head , Use a head collar to start, then move on to a bridle when you think the horse is happy with it. Then put a saddle on it. Depending on the temperament of the horse depends on how long this process will take. Once the horse is used to a saddle on its back start adding bits of weight, like two small sacks of sand tied together and thrown over the saddle. Always Be reassuring to the Horse giving it treats when it has done what you want. Eventually the horse will be accept the weight on its back, once this happens the next step is to get the horse used to a person near its back. While some one is leading the horse walk along side it with you arm across its back occasionally leaning heavily on it , if the horse accept this move on to walking sideways and ever so carefully lean over the horse or if you can lean over and lift your feet off the ground. Now comes the final step. Eventually you will have to get on the horse and ride , or at least attempt to. This is safest without stirrups as you don't want to get dragged when you get thrown. Walk the horse along side something high enough for you to Mount up and carefully get on the horse. Do NOT show any fear to the animal as horses pick up on it very easily. With Luck you will ride off. But from bitter personal experience there will definitely be contact with your body and the ground. This method ensures the Horse has your trust and will trust other humans.

Or, if you are very experienced with horses, you could attempt to do it the hard but quick way, and break the horse through pure determination, and do it bronco style. This method is not recommended, because one you most certainly will be hurt, and two a horse broken this way does not have the same temperament as a horse broken by the first method. They tend to be more feisty, harder to handle and do not trust humans very much.

Answer 2

Family Feud Answer: Stop, Giddy Up, Stay Still, Slow Down

When it comes to safety 'Halt' is the best way to go but in movement 'walk on'. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

Forward, stop, and backing are the biggest essentials, but you also want it to be able to take the bit, and to be able to saddle the horse.