Most impressive horse tricks don’t begin with something impressive.
They start with one small, simple skill.
- A leg forward combined with head down can become a Simple Bow.
- Targeting (touch) can grow into liberty work, fetch, and confidence around unfamiliar objects.
- Standing and waiting can become useful mounting block manners or a fun park-and-recall game.
Below are 10 beginner-friendly skills you can teach through short, reward-based sessions.
Each one is useful on its own, but it can also become a building block for many more playful and practical activities.
Start with one tiny step, reward your horse’s tries, and keep it enjoyable for both of you. 🩷
Safety & Set‑Up
Choose a calm, familiar space. Short sessions (5–10 minutes) work best.
Use a marker (a clicker, a tongue click or the word “Yes!”) and small, healthy treats—or scratches if your horse prefers.
Invite, don’t insist. If your horse says “not today,” that’s useful feedback. Try an easier step, offer a break, or switch to something they enjoy.
Connection Rule: End while your horse still wants more. Leave them curious for next time.
Simple Tricks Can Lead to So Much More
Many advanced-looking tricks are simply two or three small skills joined together.
For example:
- Leg Forward + Head Down = Simple Bow
- Target Touch + Follow-the-Target = Weaving Around Cones
- Stand and Wait + Come When Called = Park and Recall
Teach each piece separately. Once your horse understands both parts, you can begin joining them together through short, playful sessions.
Pro tip: You can also teach a Simple Bow by following a target—see our step‑by‑step:
A Very Simple Bow in Less Than 4 Minutes
1) Target Touch (Targeting)
Why it helps: The clearest way to say, “That’s it!” Targeting boosts confidence around new objects and becomes the foundation for many tricks.
Try this: Hold out a soft target (a cone or ball). When your horse sniffs/touches it—mark and reward. Repeat in easy, short reps.
Build on it: Fetch, kiss, hug.
Connection tip: Let your horse investigate at their pace. Curiosity → courage.
2) Follow‑the‑Target
Why it helps: Creates focused, willing movement without pressure. Great for leading with softness and for liberty work.
Try this: Present the target, mark/reward the touch, then slowly step away. When your horse takes a step to keep the target close—mark/reward. A few steps are plenty!
Build on it: Trailer loading, weaving cones, going between poles, liberty circles.
3) Head‑Down (Breathe With Me)
Why it helps: A reliable “calm button.” Lowering the head can reduce tension and invite relaxation.
Try this: Pair a gentle cue (e.g., hand on poll or downwards hand signal) with a reward for any lowering motion—even a centimeter. Gradually shape for a soft, sustained lower.
Build on it: Pre‑bow shaping, calm haltering, vet/farrier handling.
4) Stand/Wait (Mat Work)
Why it helps: Teaches patience, impulse control, and confidence staying still without restraint.
Try this: Place a mat (rubber doormat works). Mark/reward any step toward it; then for a hoof on it; then two. Build duration one breath at a time.
Build on it: Pedestal work, mounting block manners, “park here” around the barn.
5) Back‑Up (Softly)
Why it helps: Useful, polite body control that keeps everyone safe and sets up many tricks.
Try this: Offer a very light cue (finger to chest or nose). Mark/reward even a weight‑shift back, then a single step. Keep it floaty, not forcey.
Build on it: Liberty patterns, “back to me,” fun tail‑cue backing.
6) Sidepass/Step‑Sideways (The Space Dance)
Why it helps: Creates a responsive bubble and positions your horse for countless activities.
Try this: Stand by the shoulder, point lightly at the neck or ribcage. Mark/reward the tiniest sideways thought. Add one step at a time.
Build on it: Spanish walk shaping, twirl, lateral confidence around obstacles.
7) Leg‑Forward
Why it helps: Super practical for hoof care and a gateway to flashy tricks.
Try this: Touch the cannon bone, mark/reward a tiny lean forward. Shape for a relaxed, deliberate leg reach.
Build on it: Counting, Spanish walk, bow, easy hoof‑stand for trims (farrier favorite!).
8) Leg‑Up
Why it helps: Cooperative hoof checks without wrestling.
Try this: Point or touch near the fetlock; mark/reward even a lift attempt. Keep reps tiny and balanced left/right.
Build on it: Lying down shaping (advanced), relaxed farrier sessions.
9) Look‑Away (Treat Manners)
Why it helps: Prevents mugging and keeps your pockets safe. Polite horses earn more opportunities.
Try this: Keep the treat out of sight in a closed fist at your side (or in a pouch). The instant your horse looks away or softens the muzzle—mark, then open your fist and deliver the treat. Repeat until manners feels automatic.
If your horse is pushy around treats, trot over here for helpful ideas on creating perfect food manners: HOW TO TEACH YOUR HORSE TREAT MANNERS
Build on it: Calm grooming, polite snack time on the trail, zen at the tack room.
10) Come‑When‑Called (Recall)
Why it helps: It’s joyful and practical. Nothing beats your horse choosing you.
Try this: Start close. Say your cue, show the target or open posture, mark/reward even one step toward you. Add distance slowly. Keep it fun—like a game of tag.
Build on it: Liberty work, pasture pickup, playful fetch finishes.
Make It a Game
Train in micro‑sessions and mix easy wins with a tiny challenge.
Rotate 2–3 games per week to keep curiosity high.
Film a 10‑second clip of your best moment—celebrate progress, not perfection.
Troubleshooting (Kindly)
- Too excited? Use lower‑value rewards, longer pauses, or calmer games (Head Down, Stand/Wait).
- Not motivated? Shorten the session, raise clarity (easier step), or switch to a favorite game.
- Sticky feet? Play “Follow the Target” for two light steps, reward big, end there.
Ready to Build on These Simple Tricks?
If you’d like help teaching your horse these simple skills and exploring hundreds more playful and practical activities, come and join us inside Horse Tricks Club.
You’ll find step-by-step lessons for:
- Fun horse tricks
- Liberty training
- Useful everyday skills
- Confidence-building activities
- Groundwork and body awareness
- Enrichment, games, and playful challenges
You’ll also have support from our kind, experienced trainers and a friendly community where you can ask questions, share your progress, and celebrate the little wins.
You can join for a month, a few months, or stay for as long as it feels right for you.
