Water

The first time your horse goes into a water obstacle should be at a walk following behind a more experienced horse. When he is calmly walking in and out, you can try trotting.

TROUBLESHOOTING: Your pony may hover at the edge of the water thinking about it, which is fine—just try not to let him back away from the water’s edge. There’s no need to circle if he doesn’t go in on the first attempt, just let him lower his head to check out the water, moving side to side if he wants.

Most horses will eventually take a step in once they feel comfortable and see another horse walking or standing in the water. This can take 30 seconds or it could take 30 minutes—take the time you need and don’t force him in.