When leading your horse, walk beside her - not ahead or behind. A position even with the horse's head and its shoulder is considered safest. Always turn the horse away from you and walk around it. Use a long lead shank and both hands when leading. If the horse rears up, release the hand nearest to the halter so you can stay on the ground. It is customary to lead form the left (near side), using the right hand to hold the lead, near the halter. The excess portion of the lead should be folded, figure eight style.

Walk beside the horse when leading

When leading, extend your right elbow slightly toward the horse. If the horse makes contact with you, its shoulder will hit your elbow first and move you away from it. Your elbow can also be used in the horse's neck to keep the head and neck straight, as will as to prevent the horse from crowding you. A horse should be workable from both sides, even for mounting and dismounting.

The horse is stronger than you so don't try to pull her.

Never wrap the lead shank or reins around your hand, wrist or body. A knot at the end of the lead shank aids in maintaining a secure grip when needed for control. Never drape lead shank or reins across your shoulders or neck. Don't wear jewelry around horses. Rings can cut deeply into fingers and bracelets can get caught in reins or lead lines. Dangling earrings are particularly dangerous.

Be extremely cautious when leading a horse through narrow openings, such as a door. Be certain you have firm control and step through first. Step through quickly and get to one side to avoid being crowded. At any time you are dismounted or leading the horse, be cautious of the stirrups catching on objects. Use judgment when turning a horse loose. Lead completely through the gate or door and turn the horse around to face the direction from which you have just entered. Then release the lead shank or remove the halter or bridle. Avoid letting a horse bolt away from you when released. Good habits prevent accidents.

Avoid using of excessively long lead ropes so as to prevent you from becoming entangled. Watch the coils when using lariats or lunge lines.

Move on to Mounting and Dismounting

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