172 Training the Saddle Horse 



bit. As the horse starts, salute him with the right 

 hand; if he fails to notice this, snap the fingers to 

 attract his attention. This is the signal to be used 

 in later life when you wish him to canter. After 

 cantering a quarter mile steady him down to the 

 walk, and then repeat until the horse understands 

 what he is expected to do. 



Speed is not sought at the canter, simply stylish and 

 comfortable action. This must be attained by induc- 

 ing the horse to bring his hind legs well under the body, 

 and at the same time by keeping his head in the proper 

 position by slight pressure on the curb-bit. 



Teach the horse to lead with either foreleg as sug- 

 gested in training to trot. To facilitate this, when 

 teaching to lead with the right foreleg circle to the 

 right, and when teaching to lead with the left fore- 

 leg circle to the left. Teach him to lead with al- 

 ternate legs by riding him in the outline of the 

 figure 8. First use a large figure, but gradually de- 

 crease it until it is as small as possible. The horse 

 will thus learn to change his leading leg in accordance 

 with the direction in which he is required to circle. 



The running walk. — With the horse at the walk, 

 take him lightly on the curb reins, urge him just out 

 of the walk by a gentle touch of .the spurs and as 

 he starts reach over and touch him on the withers. 

 As he breaks from the walk hold him steady and do 

 not allow him to go into a trot or rack, or to fall 

 back into a walk. This is a very delightful gait 



