So you've tamed a horse in Minecraft, but now you want to know how to get it to follow you on your epic adventures? Don't worry, it's easier than you think! This guide will cover all the methods to ensure your trusty steed stays by your side.
Method 1: Using a Lead
This is the most reliable and straightforward way to ensure your horse follows you.
What You Need:
- A Lead: Crafted using 3 slime balls and a string. You'll find slime balls in slime chunks (look them up online if you are unsure where to find them!), and string is obtained from killing spiders.
Steps:
- Equip the Lead: Select the lead in your hotbar.
- Right-Click the Horse: Approach your horse and right-click on it with the lead equipped. This will attach the lead to the horse.
- Lead Your Horse: Now you can walk around, and the horse will follow you, connected by the lead. The lead has a decent length, giving you some freedom of movement.
- Detach the Lead: To detach the lead, simply right-click on the horse again.
Pro Tip: Leads are extremely useful for more than just horses! They work on other tameable mobs such as donkeys, mules, llamas, and even the adorable foxes.
Method 2: Using a Saddle (Indirect Method)
While a saddle doesn't directly make a horse follow you, it's crucial for riding and thus indirectly encourages it to stay near you.
Why This Works:
Horses, once tamed and saddled, tend to stay relatively close to their rider even without a lead, especially if they're not spooked. They might wander a bit, but generally stay within a reasonable distance.
Steps:
- Obtain a Saddle: Saddles are found in chests within dungeons, abandoned mineshafts, and even some villages. Alternatively you can trade with certain villagers.
- Equip the Saddle: Right-click on your tamed horse to equip the saddle.
- Ride Your Horse: Hop on your horse and ride around. Your horse should generally stay near you.
Caveat: This method isn't as reliable as using a lead, particularly in areas with lots of obstacles or other entities that might spook your horse.
Troubleshooting: Why Isn't My Horse Following Me?
- Horse is Untamed: Make sure you've properly tamed your horse by repeatedly right-clicking until hearts appear above its head.
- Horse is Spooked: Loud noises, nearby hostile mobs, or even certain blocks can spook horses. Try to keep the area calm and peaceful.
- Lead Issues: Ensure you’ve properly attached the lead and that it’s not somehow broken.
- Distance: Leads have a limited range. If you go too far, the horse might stop following.
By understanding these methods and troubleshooting tips, you'll be able to keep your horse happily following you wherever your Minecraft adventures take you! Happy exploring!
