Groundwork Beginner 15 min

Standing for the Farrier

Focus: Patience, Obedience, Manners

Equipment: Hoof pick, Halter and leadrope

Hold your horse on a lead rope. Pick up the left front foot and hold it for 30 seconds.
If the horse pulls the foot away, calmly pick it up again. Don't fight — just persistently hold.
Repeat with each foot: left front, right front, left hind, right hind.
Progress to holding each foot for 1 minute, simulating farrier work time.
Gently tap on the sole of each foot with the hoof pick to simulate nail hammering.
Practice this weekly so the farrier visit is routine, not stressful.

Holding the foot too high or in an uncomfortable position.
Getting angry when the horse pulls the foot away — it may be a balance issue, not disobedience.
Not practicing between farrier visits, so the horse 'forgets' the routine.
Only practicing with front feet because the hinds are harder.

Have a friend hold each foot while you stand at the horse's head (simulating the farrier/handler setup).
Practice the foot pickup from both sides.
Add a tap-tap-tap with a hard object to simulate nailing.

Tip: Your farrier will thank you. A horse that stands quietly saves time, reduces injury risk, and makes the farrier's job possible.