Why Your Horse Refuses to Pull the Cart: Causes & Fixes

Owning a driving horse is one of the most rewarding experiences—whether you’re
enjoying a quiet Sunday drive down country roads, competing in pleasure classes, or
working in the fields. But nothing is more frustrating (or worrisome) than when your
horse simply refuses to move forward in the horse drawn cart.

1. Pain or Discomfort

The number one cause of refusal is pain. Horses are prey animals, and most will try
hard to work even when uncomfortable. If yours is refusing, pay attention.

Poorly fitting harness – Check for rubbing, pinching, or pressure points,
especially around the collar, breast collar, breeching, or saddle.
Dental or back pain – A sore mouth or stiff back can make pulling miserable.
Hoof problems – Even a mild stone bruise can make a horse unwilling to step
into the traces.

Fix: Have a harness fitter check your setup, (you can send Alberta Carriage Supply
pictures) Schedule regular farrier and dental care. If pain is suspected, bring in your
veterinarian before pushing training further.

Additionally, using the correct pleasure harness designed for comfort and control
improves your horse's willingness to pull

2. Confusion in Training

Sometimes, it isn’t defiance at all, your horse simply doesn’t understand what’s
being asked.

Inconsistent cues – If multiple handlers drive the horse differently, the may
be unsure which signal to follow.
Skipped steps – Moving into the cart before the horse is solid on long lines
and ground driving can cause hesitation.
Mixed signals – Asking for “walk on” while unconsciously holding the reins
too tight can create a contradiction.

Fix: Return to groundwork. Reinforce cues on the long lines until your horse
confidently steps forward at voice commands. Be patient, clear communication
builds trust.

3. Fear or Bad Experiences

Horses have long memories, and a single bad scare can result in a refusal to pull.

A runaway or wreck – Even one incident can make a horse associate the cart
with danger.
Noisy equipment – Rattling chains, squeaky wheels, or loose traces can
spook a sensitive horse.
Poor first introduction – If the cart was rushed in without steady
desensitization, fear may linger.

Fix: Go slow. Reintroduce the cart in a calm setting. Reward small tries, like
standing quietly in shafts. Use a helper horse or quiet partner to show it’s safe.

4. Lack of Conditioning

Driving requires strength. If your horse hasn’t been worked consistently, pulling can
simply feel like too much.

Weak back or hindquarters – Essential muscles for pulling.
Overweight horses – May struggle with stamina and heat.
Sudden increase in workload – Asking for too much, too soon, leads to
balking.

Fix: Build fitness gradually. Start with short drives on level ground and slowly add
distance and hills. Like people, horses need conditioning to perform comfortably.
For those using specialized equipment, consider investing in quality Draft Horse
Carts or 2 Wheel Horse Carts, designed to reduce strain and improve stability.

5. Rider/Driver Nerves

Believe it or not, horses often mirror the emotions of the person holding the lines. If
you’re anxious, they feel it.

Fix: Breathe. Relax your body and hands. Speak calmly. Consider driving lessons or
a clinic with an experienced instructor to build your confidence. Alberta Carriage
Supply - Basic Driving clinic

Quick Checklist Before Every Drive

Harness adjusted correctly
Cart balanced and noise-free
Horse healthy, sound, and comfortable
Clear, consistent cues planned
Patience packed along with your whip

Final Thoughts

A horse refusing to pull isn’t a sign of laziness—it’s a sign that something isn’t right.
Whether it’s discomfort, fear, confusion, or lack of conditioning, your horse is
communicating the only way he knows how: by saying “no.”

With patience, observation, and the right adjustments, most horses return to happy,
willing partners in the cart. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to deepen
your partnership