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I have two horses. Everything is fine until I try to bring them in from their paddock. One has to stay in the paddock until I bring in the other. Then I come back for the second. However, when they realize it is time to go in, problems begin. I will have one on a lead line and open the gate; the other will come up and try to push through. Neither one wants to be the one that has to wait. Do you have any suggestions on how I can teach them to be calm and wait?

Last Updated: June 18, 2009

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There are a couple of possible solutions. You could go back to basics and start gaining your horses' respect on the ground. You will learn to move your horse forward and back, move hips, move shoulders, etc., so they will be responsive and respectful.

You should also consider bringing your horses in and not feeding them right away. If they know that as soon as they get inside their stalls there will be feed waiting, they will begin to anticipate their feeding time. They should be patient and respectful when waiting to go in and be fed.

In the meantime, if you feel you or your horses are in immediate danger, you can halter both horses and tie one horse to a secure place along the fence and then take the other horse into the barn. Be sure to tie to a very secure post, and do not tie your horse to the gate or rail.

Refer to the learning module on "Effective Horse Training" for more information.

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