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Hobbles & Kicking Chains






Western horse hobbles are training western tack that restrict and keep a horse’s legs together to prevent their movement. Certain hobbles allow horses to walk or move around, while other styles restrict their movement completely. It is important to use horse hobbles correctly and they can be a safety tools. Horse hobbles are often used with pack horses or mules and to teach horses to ground tie. Hobbles get wet and are exposed to salts and are often made of oiled harness leather to keep the leather from cracking.

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Horse hobbles and kicking chains tools are used in horse training and management. However, it's important to note that their use is controversial and not widely accepted by all horse trainers and owners. These tools are normally used for specific jobs and should be implemented with caution and proper knowledge.

1. Horse Hobbles: Horse hobbles are tools that are designed to restrict a horse's movement by attaching them to their legs. They consist of a strap or chain that connects one front leg to the opposite hind leg, preventing the horse from taking normal strides. The purpose of hobbles is to encourage a horse to stand still and develop patience, as well as to prevent them from wandering off when grazing. However, hobbles should only be used with trained horses, and their use requires careful monitoring to avoid potential injuries or accidents.

2.Kicking Chains: Kicking chains are the tools used to discourage horses from kicking. They consist of a chain that is attached loosely around the horse's pasterns (above the hooves) and are designed to create noise and discomfort when the horse kicks. The idea is to condition the horse to associate kicking with an unpleasant experience, thereby discouraging the behavior. Kicking chains should only be used temporarily and under the guidance of a knowledgeable trainer, as misuse or prolonged use can lead to physical and psychological harm.

It's recommended to think about alternative training methods and take advice with expert trainers or equine professionals before considering the use of hobbles or kicking chains. Positive reinforcement training, which rewards desired behaviors instead of using negative or aversive tools, is generally considered a more effective and humane approach to horse training.