How do you change a Western horse to English?

Answer by  Zuzu (200)

It depends entirely on what you are using the horse for. If your horse is used to just neckreining you can introduce a thick jointed snaffle and add direct reining in with your neckreining. If you are intending on showing, you'll need to work on your horse's gaits for Hunter/Equitation.

Answer by  Roland27 (16334)

Your horse neck reigns so now you instead of using neck reigning to steer with one hand you use one hand on each rein to steer. It's actually harder to train a horse to neck rein than English riding. If your horse has a slow trot or canter you will need to get him/her to speed up a little.

Answer by  Vllad45 (1886)

Yes, there will be some training differences, but there will also be quite a bit of additional different equipment. Ease your horse into it and don't expect too much right away. It will be helpful to speak to a trainer to get some specific advice about your hose in particular.

Answer by  MrsShannonHarrell (768)

Most horses will react well to a switch, and you should be OK switching back and forth. Take a couple of English lessons, so you have a good feel for any differences. English horses work with more contact, and tend to work more off their hindquarters.