Stockyard Horse Discussion Forums - View Single Post - What is a good age to start breaking a youngen?

Merrylegs · 29-08-2008, 01:16 PM

I believe in good handling and ground work from day 1! It is essential to give the babies a good foundation to build the rest of their lives on and not to mention the advantage of being able to easily catch, transport and handle your youngster should it require vet treatment!!

I personally do not agree with actually getting on and backing a horse under the age of 3. I disagree with lunging before 2 and lunging more than once a fortnight or so before 3.

Horses should not be in 'full work' until at least 4 and I don't like the idea of jumping anything under the age of 5.

But this is my personal opinion as I believe so many people get started on youngsters undersaddle career way too early which can cause innumerable problems later in life. What's the rush?

29-08-2008, 01:16 PM	#8 (permalink)
Merrylegs Advanced Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Kelmscott Posts: 4,052	I believe in good handling and ground work from day 1! It is essential to give the babies a good foundation to build the rest of their lives on and not to mention the advantage of being able to easily catch, transport and handle your youngster should it require vet treatment!! I personally do not agree with actually getting on and backing a horse under the age of 3. I disagree with lunging before 2 and lunging more than once a fortnight or so before 3. Horses should not be in 'full work' until at least 4 and I don't like the idea of jumping anything under the age of 5. But this is my personal opinion as I believe so many people get started on youngsters undersaddle career way too early which can cause innumerable problems later in life. What's the rush? __________________ Second Chance Horse Rescue Inc; www.schrar.org SC Hoofcare Workshop - 6th Feb with Master Farrier - book now to avoid disappointment!