When working around a horse, the right side of the horse is referred to as the far side or the off-side. The left side of the horse is referred to as the near side or the on-side.

Most activities (catching, mounting, saddling, leading, etc.) are done from the near (left) side of the horse.

The Back of the horse is referred to as the hind quarters or the haunches. The hindquarters includes all parts of the horse behind and below the peak of the Croup. The front of the horse is referred to as the forehand.