Horse glossary
Halter
Headcollar used to lead a horse.
In Spanish: Cabestro
What it means
A halter, also called a headcollar, is a simple piece of headgear made of nylon, leather, or rope that fits around a horse's nose and behind its ears. You clip a lead rope to the ring under the chin to lead or tie the horse. Unlike a bridle, a halter has no bit.
Why it matters
The halter is what you use most when handling a horse on the ground: catching it, leading it, grooming it, and tying it. A halter that fits well stays in place without rubbing the face or slipping over the eyes.
Example
Clip the lead rope to the halter.
Try this
The noseband should sit about two fingers below the cheekbone, with room for two fingers underneath it. Put the halter on from the horse's left side, slipping the noseband over the muzzle before buckling the strap behind the ears.
Common mistake
Leaving a halter on a horse in its stall or field can be dangerous if it catches on something. Experts generally advise turning horses out without a halter, or using a breakaway halter that gives way under strong pressure.
Topics
Where this word comes up
- Halter & Lead Rope BasicsLearn how halters and lead ropes work, and the safe basics with an instructor.
- Turnout Safety CheckStep-by-step checks for moving a horse to turnout safely (with an adult).
- Halter On / Halter OffPractice calm haltering steps with help.
- HalterA headcollar used to lead and handle a horse.