Horses have been our loyal companions for centuries, and understanding the nature of these majestic creatures is essential for any horse owner. One important thing to understand is why you should always lead a horse from the left. This practice is not only done for safety reasons, but it also allows for better communication between the horse and the handler. In this article, we’ll discuss why you should lead a horse from the left and how it benefits both the horse and the handler.
The History of Leading a Horse from the Left
Leading a horse from the left has been an accepted practice since ancient times. The reason for this is due to the fact that the majority of people are right-handed, so it is easier to control the horse’s movements when the lead rope is in their right hand. This practice can be seen in many cultures, such as the ancient Greeks, who believed that the left side of a horse was the “good” side and should always be used when leading a horse.
Another reason why it is customary to lead a horse from the left is because it is easier to mount the horse from the left side. This is because it is easier to reach the stirrup when mounted from the left, and it is more comfortable for the rider to sit in the saddle. Furthermore, leading a horse from the left is also beneficial for a rider’s safety. If the horse were to spook or become agitated, it would be easier for the rider to keep their balance if they were leading from the left.
Benefits of Leading a Horse from the Left
Leading a horse from the left is not only done for safety reasons, but it also allows for better communication between the horse and the handler. Horses are naturally left-sided, meaning that their left side is the “strong” side and is the side they use to move forward. When the handler leads the horse from the left, the horse is more likely to respond to the handler’s commands and move forward with ease. This allows the handler to have better control over the horse’s movements. It also helps the horse to feel more comfortable with its handler and makes it easier to train the horse.
Leading a horse from the left is also beneficial for the horse’s health. Horses are prey animals, meaning that they become easily spooked when they sense danger. By leading them from the left, the handler is able to keep the horse calm and relaxed, which reduces the risk of injury or stress. Additionally, leading from the left allows the handler to direct the horse’s movements and ensure that it is not walking on its hind legs, which can cause damage to the horse’s legs over time.
Conclusion
Leading a horse from the left is a practice that has been used for centuries, and there are many benefits to doing so. Not only does it provide the handler with better control over the horse’s movements, but it also helps to keep the horse calm and relaxed. Additionally, leading from the left is beneficial for the horse’s health, as it reduces the risk of injury and helps to ensure that the horse is not walking on its hind legs. Ultimately, leading a horse from the left is a practice that all horse owners should be aware of and follow.