25/11/2025
At LG Equine, we believe every rider and every horse deserves thoughtful, patient, and professional guidance. Our approach combines classical horsemanship with modern training methods to build confidence, harmony, and long-lasting partnerships. Whether you’re taking your first lesson, refining your technique, or basic ground work, we offer a safe, supportive environment focused on steady progress and genuine connection.
What We Offer
• Private and semi-private riding lessons – Tailored sessions that meet riders at their level, from beginners learning foundations
• Schooling and training services – Expert, consistent schooling to help horses develop balance, responsiveness, and relaxation, creating willing and happy partners.
• Confidence-building programs – For both horse and rider, with patient instruction that prioritizes understanding, clear communication, and positive experiences.
We train with empathy, clarity, and purpose. Every session is guided by the belief that horses learn best when they feel safe, respected, and understood. We encourage riders to develop quiet, effective aids, a balanced seat, and a mindset rooted in patience and consistency. Progress is celebrated not just in ribbons or results, but in trust, softness, and the journey shared with your horse.
Why Choose LG Equine
✔ Professional, personalised instruction
✔ A calm, encouraging atmosphere
✔ Focus on horse welfare and correct training principles
✔ Programmes for riders of all ages and disciplines
✔ Dedication to building capable, confident, and compassionate riders
DRIVING HORSES (cart)
Teaching a horse to drive is a rewarding process that blends patience, trust, and clear communication. Whether the goal is pleasure driving, competitive carriage work, agricultural tasks, or simply broadening a horse’s training, a correct foundation ensures safety and long-term success.
1. Laying the Groundwork
Before introducing equipment or a cart, the horse must be comfortable with fundamental horsemanship skills. Leading, tying, grooming, and understanding voice cues form the basis of all driving education. A well-handled horse becomes more confident as training progresses.
2. Groundwork & Long-Lining
Long-lining (or long-reining) is the heart of early driving training. Working from behind or beside the horse helps develop steering, transitions, and straightness without the pressure of pulling a vehicle. Horses learn to respond to rein aids, body language, and voice commands while staying relaxed and balanced.
3. Desensitization & Harness Introduction
Driving horses must be comfortable with equipment touching their sides, legs, and hindquarters. Slow, positive exposure to the harness, crupper, breeching, and traces ensures the horse accepts pressure in new areas. Introducing sounds—like the rattle of buckles or the clatter of shafts—helps prepare them for real-world driving environments.
4. Pulling From the Ground
Once the horse is comfortable in harness, they begin pulling a travois, tire, or training sled. This teaches them how to engage their body and accept weight behind them. A calm, steady progression prevents fear and builds confidence.
5. First Hitching
The first time a horse is hitched to a cart, safety is the priority. Experienced handlers, proper equipment, and a familiar environment keep the process smooth. The horse learns to stand quietly, start softly, and stop with minimal pressure—habits that make them dependable in harness for years to come.
6. Developing a Reliable Driving Horse
With repetition and clear communication, the horse learns to navigate turns, back up, negotiate obstacles, and remain focused in various environments. Exposure to traffic, trails, noise, and other horses further improves reliability.
7. Benefits of Driving Training
• Builds mental and physical confidence
• Strengthens core and hind-end muscles
• Enhances overall responsiveness and work ethic
• Engages the horse in a new, enjoyable job
• Allows riders of all levels (including those who cannot ride) to enjoy horsemanship
Conclusion
Teaching horse driving is a journey rooted in trust and thoughtful progression. With proper guidance, a horse becomes a safe, confident partner capable of working willingly in harness. Whether for sport, recreation, or tradition, driving offers a beautiful partnership between horse and handler.
