How I Talk To My Horses // Commands for Driving Horses

Today I'm going to talk about how I communicate with my horses. We will do a little mowing and a little raking. And I'll try to explain some of the commands that I have for my horses.
Watch our videos to learn about draft horses- horse logging, horses farming, and horse training! Jim uses Belgian, Percheron, and Suffolk horses to do work on the farm and in the woods. He teaches about harnesses, horse-drawn logging and farming equipment, horse feeding and maintenance, and voice commands for horses. New videos uploaded every week. Keep watching to see how Jim trains his new Suffolk Punch colts as he has trained his full-grown teams!
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[@candiarchibald9701]

I watched my grandfather every summer for years do this, I can almost smell it in my mind. Lol

[@WilliamHunterII]

My father was a city boy. My mother grew up in a family of muleskinners. I use to ride but have never drove animals like you do. It sure is satisfying seeing the horses work. Peaceful, not noisy like a tractor.

[@georgesherman5345]

I love the way you work "With" the horses and not treat them like another "piece of equipment".

[@carlajenkins1990]

Horses don't need you to do everything perfectly. Just consistent.

[@josephbailey4463]

Anyone who has ever ridden horses for long understands about communicating with them. It’s a wonderful thing. Here in Argentina we make a kissy sound to ask the horses to move forward and a shushing sound (like in be quiet) to ask them to stop. Being around horses is good for the soul!

[@johnking8679]

Soooo interesting to watch and listen to you with the horses, Jim !! Do ALL your horses speak the SAME language, Jim. or do you use different words for the different breeds of horses ? Just wondering....?

[@johnking8679]

I take it that your girls and Brenda use your same commands as you when working your horses ?

[@Veikra]

"Being around horses is good for the soul!" I always say the horse gives you back your soul.

[@maggiesue4825]

The 'gee' and 'haw' side-stepping is a joy to watch!!

[@thomasrouse3826]

Thanks for sharing this, I’ve wondered how you talked to them. You mentioned people commenting on how quiet you are with them. That shows respect for the animals & I appreciate how well you treat them. It’s like you see them as partners rather than just beasts of burden.

[@seanleith5312]

I wonder if they change owners, do they have learn another languages? That's quite some work.

[@randolphbutler1832]

Well this is ALL about communication . Your hands to their mouths and your voice to their ears. Looks so easy to a non driver and then the wheel comes off. Hope vaca went well. Thanks for sharing.🐴🐴

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Thanks, yes we had a great time!

[@tanyagarcia3721]

I'm glad you were able to find the dog and the spring easy enough and the horses took the whole thing with the wheel coming off in stride because they rant didn't even flinch with the 'flat tire' you had there

[@ericcurzi2926]

Using horses makes work fun and enjoyable

[@dunbartuason5443]

Jim you are a very hard working man, that is no argument there.

[@GALLEN-vf7uy]

When I was a small boy I was sure that men who could drive horses were Kings of the World .... Maybe that was a wee bit too much. You're more like a Duke or a prince .... LOL .... Really enjoyed your video ...New Sub

[@donelookin3386]

Horses ignore the constant and unchanging and they react to the thing that is different or stimulating. They also listen if your quiet and tune you out if your loud. My Grandfather told me about how he talked to his horses and what words he had taught them. As a kid I asked what they had taught him and he said, they had taught him how to swear.... lol

[@canvids1]

Horses are very smart. I remember as a young lad watching the horses. Later in years Grandad told me some things about the horses and how somethings no commands, they just knew when to go and when to stop etc. You have a great life and you enjoy your horses and they love working for you because you treat them with love and care. (they know) I so enjoy your videos thanks.

[@Veikra]

recent studies reveal they are closer to dolphins and ape. It goes as far as telling emotions from a human visage....on a photograph!. They can make choices on their own for future events as well, shows another study ( the blanket study) We should study them a lot more like we do for dogs. It does lead to understanding the miracle of Jim Key a little better

[@ronnietaylor2488]

Bill and lady are very smart they listen very well good work Jim and horses God bless

[@willwipf7030]

Man I love how calm you you are, remind me of my dad and older brothers, I was never calm always the rebel ,still today makes me long for them days,bless the beasts and children

[@suzannemomma]

I am entranced by your work! Could we see a visit from the farrier? I love the world you live in, and your animals are so lucky to be in their glory for the purpose that they were created! Thank you for showing us that this way of life is still here.

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Shoeing is on our list for the future, thanks for watching!

[@davegongwer106]

i listened to how you talk to your horses- when i was a lot younger i too had horses but not work horses had riding horses - as per usual your gentle and kindness works well with your horses good job sir

[@ellisc.foleyjr9778]

Funny I don't think I'm that old (77) but i do remember when I was a kid, there were two different horse drawn wagons that came around, the Ragman had a single horse drawn. and he'd walk the street going from door to door buying rags. and he'd come out put them in the wagon, the horse would follow him to the next house, stop watch him walk up to the door etc. and most of the time he never said a word. And the same for the iceman, he had a team he drew a good size wagon of ice, and he too never actually rode in or on the wagon he'd go from door to door. house to house. go to the back of the wagon grab two blocks of ice with his togs, one over each shoulder.he wore leather chaps, and a leather over each shoulder to cusion the blocks and keep him dry. each ice box held two blocks in the top.Keep in mind this was only back in 1947-50! and there were still horse drawn wagons working. Fond memories.

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Interesting, thanks for sharing!

[@noahman27]

I am always so moved as I see these two magnificent horses continually paying such close and careful attention to your instructions. Amazing....Also, it's so nice to tune into this PEACEFUL channel. Such a great channel to tune into during these crazy difficult times.

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Thanks, we appreciate your kind words!

[@melanieohara6941]

The Swedish immigrants, who worked with draft horses for skidding logs in the timber camps in Southeast Wyoming-on the Medicine Bow National Forest, spoke softly, too, to their teams. This was just after World War II when I was a little girl and my dad was an Off-Bear (Log Shifter and Carrier) each summer. Precious memories with lots of home movies! 🙋🏼‍♀️

[@alliechampagne1404]

Ah! Well here's the video I mentioned the other day. Just had to keep going through your playlist. Excellent!😊

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Thanks for watching!!!

[@dianestoltz2237]

Yes you do talk softly, so I am amazed how well the horses. Can hear

[@hannahshepherd9073]

It's wonderful to see the bond your horses have with you. So glad you don't treat them like some of the Amish do.

[@ronnietaylor2488]

Jim you and your horses have it going on

[@garyhunter6030]

You have two magnificent horses. It is great to still be able to see someone using horses far farming.

[@farmboy5622]

Looks like Bill and Lady are showing off their new Horse Collar "Sweat Pads." We viewers, enjoy listening to your calm voice Jim. So I am sure that the horses do too. When your kids were learning to drive vehicles, did the Drivers Ed instructor have to use "Gee and Hah" for right and left turns?!?! (Ha!Ha!)

[@Zeke-yv3nw]

Those horses are doing so good!

[@carlkoester5972]

I stumbled upon your video. They are bring back fond memories. When I was a kid my grandparents had a 100 acre dairy farm in Western NY ( south of Buffalo NY). They farmed the old fashioned way with horses. As a kid I spent many hours in the fields driving my grandfather's teams of horses and using some of the equipment you are still using! Wow... neat... Not many folks can say they actually drove teams of horses these days! I did! We also went to the Amish for horse stock, harnesses and other equipment that they sold. You have a great site!

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for sharing about your history.

[@ronaldfeuerstein435]

A thumbs up... Always. You being quite helps make them quite. Then they respect you as much you do them. Thats " Team work" control comes though the reains to.. They know whos hanging on them and your feel of you.. Great video tks.

[@garyarmstrong4597]

Interesting how animals respond to single word commands and having the right tone when saying commands to how they react. Actually a great video. Well done.

[@nancyincanada5553]

Mike and I have been looking forward to this video (how you talk to your horses). This is absolutely fascinating! It sounds as if you are speaking another language. You are very intuitive when communicating with the horses. Jim, you are the "horse whisperer". Thanks Jim and Brenda for this great video. It's definitely my favorite so far.

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@brownmilligan1936]

i thank you for this show. i was really looking forward to hearing how you talk to the horses and the quit voice says a lot. i know you are in love all your horses.

[@stonemagic540]

Thank You For the way you talk to your horses !! I had been wondering about this a few weeks ago..smile from me

[@maryvalerio5662]

Such an interesting video. Your work with the horses is so gentle and fluid. Almost like a dance with your horses! Just lovely.

[@bjbrown]

That was excellent watching you work your horses in the fields, thank you!

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@mickholroyd2190]

Another great video..I didnt have any one around whern I was starting out so made up my own "catch words"..come round ( near side) get over ( off side) but I did have some one say to me later...whoa to stop but if the horses fidget or go to move..use a different pharse as you have already said stop..so I say whoop...or if I want them to slow or go steady..I say " gentle"..as you say its more HOW you say it..thank you again..great stuff

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Thanks for sharing!

[@thewestnewyorker7269]

Thank you so much for sharing! After a long day at work and working in the garden it is a treat to relax and watch your video. I always seem to learn something.

[@edwillett1358]

That was great, got to be the smartest animals going. 73 Ed

[@glennsnider8840]

All three of you are true pro's! Thanks for sharing. Very enjoyable.

[@robthomas3968]

I think it’s amazing the control you have of the horses they’re so gentle and do everything perfect for such big animals

[@MrVailtown]

2-3-21 Beautiful Video. Nice Brenda takes time to video for ya. Thank You for the time & effort to do this.

[@chipwoods8323]

Very interesting! Your gentle and patient approach is a pleasure to watch. Thank you.

[@robertmarino2158]

Amazing video 👍 , thanks for sharing all that you do & say ! Remarkable ! Bob

[@larrycounce4509]

You are indeed much more calm with the horses than some folk Ive been around working horses and mules.

[@suzystone244]

Hi Jim & Brenda. Tone is everything. Equines are incredible communicators. Calm, low words right😉❤

[@seaknightvirchow8131]

Really enjoyed watching you talk to them.

[@andyives5482]

Enjoyable as always, I learn somthing with every video. Many thanks, Best regards From UK

[@keithjacobson335]

Thanks for making the comment about how the tongue weight is on the saddle when fastening the last tug chain. I'm really getting and education on this harness.

[@honesttraitorbear3527]

I noticed how vocal you are with the horses and I really like it. It's so useful, it's what I'm doing with my new filly. Kinda training her like a dog lol

[@pierrotgretillat9365]

Salut super vidéo magnifique bravo

[@br927]

I like a drive that talks to his horses! I go to fairs and the horses are confused, I tell my wife they don't talk to them,,ya gotta talk to your horses!

[@gregfoster3321]

Live up north of you in New Brunswick Canada. Really enjoy your site and especially the one on how you talk to horses. When I was younger my family operated a logging company and at one time had several yarding horses. Single skidding.... My dad who is now 90 prided himself and his horse Mike would go for days without a bit using just voice commands. Some commands were similar but the tone of the voice is so true...however my point....up here or at least in our area gee was left and haw was right....time has slipped away but Dad is still alive and I plan to call him to confirm my recollection..we had another command ....come...it meant come back a bit and then gee or haw around an obstacle like a tree. The old horse would back up a few steps and immediately bend his neck inward and around the tree.

[@patdiggins9252]

Superb teamwork 👏.

[@boscodog4358]

I am really amazed that they can understand your northern accent 😍!

[@bobjordan2552]

Another interesting video. Thanks👍🏻

[@kswaynes7569]

Good video, even with the breakdown. Unusually shaped fields are tough to cut and rake, weather with a team or tractor.

[@donvoll2580]

Good day Interesting video. Yea my dad used "gee & hah" many yrs. ago. I think they learn from repeating it often. When we had farm we had german shepard & every time he jump on wagon we say "jump' Anyways thanks for video.

[@georgesherman5345]

I think that came from the OLD days, working with oxen.

[@hacc220able]

Spectacular. Thanks for sharing.

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@theodorecarlton5245]

Keep the good stuff coming thanks

[@jwsomrvl]

Thanks so much for this. I hope you do more. I'll subscribe to see more of your videos. I got to work with horses a lille on my first job. Many years ago.

[@sueupham2519]

So valuable,,,thanks for sharing

[@goldwingmoments]

Thanks, great video. Now I have a much better understanding how you talk to your horses. Love it!! Stay safe..

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Glad to help

[@hejnye]

Your team is so careful, just like their driver. Hope we get some more rain soon.

[@allanbarsness6076]

good imformation ,Jim

[@davidchristensen6908]

I can see why you like mowing with horses. How quite, just the nice sound the mower makes you with your thoughts working with your team of horses. Give you lots of time to make plans in your head while mowing.

[@donaldshields2483]

Another good video keep up the good work

[@chucker440]

Love the videos

[@mountainman1961]

Hey Jim!! I got ya an idea on your seat. I use an old bottom of a bus seat. If you can find a junkyard who has busses you can pick them up for a couple dollars. It keeps them from having to burn them and they are comfrey to sit on for long hours. Just tryin to help!! As always love your explanation of everything!! Thanks!!

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Good idea

[@davidwalker1639]

Thank you, thank you, thank you great video and amazing animals.

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Thanks for watching!

[@kevinbwillson4161]

Beautiful

[@andreas515c2]

Hi Jim, really impressing how you communicate with your horses. Farm on, Andreas

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Thanks

[@waldemarlaszuk1437]

Dobra robota aż miło patrzeć

[@randallcrane2704]

Really enjoyed your video jim

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Thanks for watching

[@amilton4849]

Really enjoyed that video. Be nice if you could wear that camera on the head more often. It is very relaxing listening you drive those horses. Thanks.

[@Whipple1]

Thanks Jim! Cheers! Whipple

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Hope you enjoyed it

[@Whipple1]

@@WorkingHorsesWithJim Yes, I did enjoy the video. As a kid on our farm I always heard the neighbors, and the farmer who used to own our place, talk about working the farm with horses. I can remember a lot of harness parts hanging in one of our sheds and we found several horse shoes in the fields when we plowed. I guess I missed working with draft horses by one or two generations. Always thought I should have been born a century earlier! Thanks again Jim. Cheers! Whipple

[@plainsimple442]

Jim, Looks like you could use a guy with a scythe around your shed areas....

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Sure could!

[@johnkeane1341]

Nice video! Could you do a video sometime on the reins, how you work the reins when driving a team, on turns, pace, backing etc. Nice work with your team.

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

I'll try to, thanks for the suggestion!

[@klauskarbaumer6302]

Jim, do you use fly-nets at all? Here in Missouri at this time of the year my horses would be pestered too much without them. Your horses are really absolutely trustworthy, a wheel comes off and they stay calm !!!

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

No, but I wish I had some.

[@hannahshepherd9073]

Can the horses work with those fly nets on ?

[@klauskarbaumer6302]

@@hannahshepherd9073 Yes, and they will stay calmer since they are not bugged by those pesky insects.

[@michaelnancyamsden7410]

Great.

[@charlottecampbell4327]

Do have a successful summer season, too. There is something I've wondered regarding heavy horses doing heavy and light work. Do they have a "sense" whether the load will need extreme pulling or light moving before they begin moving?

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Absolutely, it's amazing-they seem to know!

[@charlottecampbell4327]

@@WorkingHorsesWithJim Thank you.

[@rickhatesmisleadia7101]

very good video .... have you ever been kicked by one of your horses? I would be scared to walk around behind them for fear of being kicked into orbit! lol

[@todd1808]

C’est magnifique .....

[@jipjojed]

Great work n amazed how the horses have such a heart to please, listen n work. PS: Do you use fly sprays n if so what kind?

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Yes I do, something I got at Tractor Supply

[@pocketchange1951]

👍👌🇨🇦❤, gr8 stuff

[@hughvane]

Jim - I realise this video is almost a year old now but perhaps you'd consider wearing a face microphone transmitting to a digital recording device worn on your belt, similar to what you see singers and others wearing. Later, you can listen to that recording and transcribe it to a card you can read from when you make a video when working your horses. Also, perhaps text overlay on the video.

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Thanks for the suggestion

[@pixie706]

Turning corners when rowing is a dressage move that many would envy . Which horses are your favorite. ?

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

I don't have a favorite

[@bcpfarmandtrucking6560]

Do you use the horses to bale or do you make loafs?

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

we bale with the tractor

[@territn8871]

Loved hearing how you communicate to them! They're so intelligent, and gorgeous! Jim, do you train them yourself? Also, are they about the same age...siblings perhaps?

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

I trained 2 myself and 2 came already trained. No, they aren’t sibling. Lady and Bill and Ken are 13-14 and old Buck is around 20

[@tomdoty8334]

Jim, You need to UP the volume. I can't hear you on my PC with the volume maxed out. Really looked forward to this, but can't hear it.

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Sorry, I'll see what I can do, I did raise it almost as high as it can go

[@MrWaterbugdesign]

7:00 As beautiful as beautiful gets.

[@barbaragalbreth4429]

I watched another video when you sent one of the horses in for lunch and you knew he'd stop at the open hey bail, however before he could grab a mouthful you told him to go in the barn, and he headed right straight in. What are the conversations with your horses off the field?

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

I shared another conversation in the last video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3mpeISVnaZprsk

[@danielanac5093]

What is the maximum area of ​​land that can be worked per year with agricultural tools that have animal traction?

[@denniswagner9713]

Good video It amazes me how then do that side step thing on your command. How long have you worked with these hores Thks

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Many years

[@davegongwer106]

i gotta al.'nother question for you jim witch ever team you use jim my question is after the team is hitched up are they pulling or pushing the load???

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

We call it pulling, but they are actually pushing

[@dannyboy7086]

loved the video. How important is it to switch the sides the horses work on? I remember hearing something about horses using the left brain and when they switch directions they use the other side of their brain.

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

I think it's very important because you never know when a horse will get sick or lame. And if they aren't used to working on that side, you almost have to retrain them.

[@melbytvenge]

Animals have a sixth sence and do sence how we feel and act. If we are calm they are calm if we are nervous they will sence that also.

[@klnkrs2629]

Interesting. I wondered in previous videos what your commands were. I watched your hands as well. Is there any direction given to the horses through the reins? Do you always hold tension on the reins or are you just holding them loose? I like the quietness of the horses. They seem to know your voice very well.

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

I always keep my lines fairly tight. And yes, I'm always giving them instructions through the lines.Thanks for watching!

[@larry323]

Hi Jim, great video! Do you have a relationship with your horses or are they just thought of as a piece of equipment? Thank You. Larry

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

Yes I do have a relationship with them and they all do have their own personality, unlike equipment

[@normanserena8617]

great video, nice shoeing who does the shoes?

[@WorkingHorsesWithJim]

We have an Amish ferrier