What is the hurry with horses ? Why are some of us in such a rush to have them on the track, barrel racing, roping and more at age 2 ? How would you feel if while in kindergarten you were given a college level calculus test ? Would you pass , or fail miserably ? People ask all the time, when to start a horses training ? I say the minute they hit the ground, we start building a foundation based on groundwork, trust and respect. As far as riding it depends on age, breed and mindset. Most horses do fine around 2.5 or 3, but this is foundation work, seat cues, lead departures, side passing, etc , not going to run their legs off and yank them around by the face with a big bit. Take the time to teach, wait and be patient. Horses mature around 9 to 11 yrs old and reach their peak, but if they are ruined as 2 yrs olds usually by the time they reach the age of 10 they are sour and ruined , and even the harshest training methods and tools cant and wont make them do the job they so despise. It is also equally as important to mix things up. If you are a weekend barrel racer or roper, spend you week day sessions working on arena exercises, dressage manures or trail riding with obstacles. My goal is for my barrel horses to never know they are just that, a barrel horse. My horses are well rounded and all around, and yours will be more successful if you do your program with some of these things in mind. When you count your blessings, count your horses twice ! Happy riding and enjoy the time spent working and riding your horses
Posted on: Tue, 03 Jun 2014 14:21:01 +0000
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