Rainy Day Activities for You and Your Horse

Rainy days can make it hard to stick to your usual riding routine, especially if you do not have access to an indoor arena. But just because the weather outside is gloomy does not mean your time with your horse has to be boring. In fact, rainy days offer a great opportunity to bond, train, and care for your horse in new ways.

In this blog, we will explore fun and productive activities you can enjoy with your horse when riding outdoors is not an option. From groundwork to grooming, these rainy day activities will keep your horse engaged and help strengthen your connection.

1. Focus on Groundwork

Groundwork is a great way to train and connect with your horse, and it does not require much space. You can work in a covered area, barn aisle, or even a dry corner of the stable.

Some simple groundwork exercises include:

• Leading with respect
  
  

• Backing up on cue
  
  

• Yielding hindquarters and shoulders
  
  

• Practicing stop and go with voice commands
  
  

These exercises improve communication, reinforce good manners, and help your horse respond better under saddle later.

If your horse is more advanced, you can try liberty work, where your horse follows your body language without a lead rope. It builds a closer relationship and encourages mutual trust.

2. Practice Desensitization

Rainy days are ideal for slow and patient work, like desensitization. It means gently introducing your horse to unfamiliar objects or situations in a safe and calm environment.

Some ideas for desensitization include:

• Gently introducing a plastic bag or tarp
  
  

• Walking over ground poles
  
  

• Handling legs and ears more thoroughly
  
  

• Playing sounds like traffic or clippers
  
  

The goal is not to scare your horse, but to help them feel safe and confident in unfamiliar situations. Desensitization also teaches your horse to focus on you, even when distractions are present.

3. Do a Deep Grooming Session

When was the last time you gave your horse a full grooming session, not just a quick brush before a ride?

Rainy days are perfect for slow, thoughtful grooming. Take some extra time to carefully brush the mane and tail, clean the hooves, and gently massage your horse’s neck and back. Using a rubber curry comb in circular motions helps clean the coat and relax tight muscles.

Check for signs of skin issues, such as rain rot or scratches, especially during wet weather. A focused grooming session supports your horse’s health and gives you meaningful time together.

4. Clean and Organize Your Tack

If the weather keeps you from spending time in the saddle, take the opportunity to clean your tack thoroughly. Wipe down your saddle, bridle, girth, and other gear. Condition leather to prevent cracking and check for worn or broken parts.

You could also take some time to tidy up and reorganize your tack area or grooming kit. Label bins, sort brushes, and toss out empty bottles. Well-maintained gear not only lasts longer but also keeps both you and your horse safe and comfortable.

5. Learn Together with Trick Training

Teaching your horse simple tricks is a fun way to build their confidence and sharpen their focus. Plus, it can be done in a small space and does not require riding.

Some easy tricks to start with include:

• Touching a target with the nose
  
  

• Picking up a hoof on command
  
  

• Bowing
  
  

• Smiling or nodding
  
  

Use treats, praise, and clear cues to reward your horse when they try something new. Trick work brings variety and helps your horse feel more relaxed and motivated during training.

6. Do Horse Stretching and Muscle Work

Stretching can help your horse stay limber, especially if they are not getting much movement due to bad weather. You can gently guide your horse into stretches using treats or your hands.

Common stretches include:

• Using slow side-to-side neck bends to keep your horse flexible
  
  

• Encouraging them to reach forward and down
  
  

• Gently lifting and extending each leg
  
  

Be slow and careful, especially if your horse is not used to stretching. Muscle work, such as light massage, can also help your horse relax and stay in good shape.

7. Spend Quiet Time Together

Not every moment with your horse has to be about training or grooming. Sometimes, just being present and spending time together is the best way to build trust.

Sit peacefully with your horse in the paddock or stall and enjoy a good book or some music. Let them sniff or nuzzle you. Scratch their favorite itchy spots. This kind of quiet bonding helps your horse see you as a source of calm and comfort.

If you have treats or toys, you can play simple games to keep things interesting. Horses enjoy mental stimulation and will appreciate your attention.

8. Watch Training Videos or Read Together

If the rain is too heavy to spend time outside at all, use the time to learn more about horses. Watch videos on horse training, behavior, or care. Read books or blogs about riding techniques, saddle fit, or nutrition.

You can also study videos of your own riding sessions to spot things you want to improve. When the weather clears up, you will be ready to apply new knowledge with confidence.

Conclusion

Rainy days might change your plans, but they do not have to stop your progress or enjoyment with your horse. In fact, these quieter days often provide the perfect chance to slow down, bond more deeply, and work on things you may overlook during regular riding routines.

From groundwork and grooming to trick training and simple quality time, there are many ways to keep your horse engaged and happy when the weather is not on your side.

Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you have to pause your progress. Instead, treat it as a chance to connect with your horse in new and meaningful ways.