Horses!

[HollowOfWisps]

About four or five years old, when their brains and bones are fully developed. You can't expect them to learn as well before their brains are developed completely. We did work with our thoroughbred cross at four, but mainly ground manners and tricks. I think he might have been hopped on bareback and just worked on walking, turning, and stopping, but no riding in saddle until 5.

I agree with taking into account their mental development. The rodeo is really big around here and the horses are started hard young. I often see 2 and 3 year olds being ridden regularly. Obviously people are free to do what they want with their horses, but I think I am starting to get labeled as the crazy horse lady because I like to take horse training very slow and with low expectations when they are young. I personally wouldn’t set a saddle on until they are 3 and not hop on until they are 4 with only some light riding. The one lady who used to be big into rodeo wanted to know why I wasn’t lunging my yearlings. I was like “um because they are just babies??”. All I expect from them right now is to be able to lead, stand for a quick trim and to stand for a little brushing. I work with them 10-20 minutes max a day with basic handling 1-2 times a week. The rest they get to run around and be kids.

 

[Peaches Lee]

Each horse is a unique individual.

Not all horses need bits, and not all horses go bitless.

I try not to be too hard-nosed in my preferences or ideas.

As for the best age to start a horse, well, for me, I'm used to later maturing breeds. And that works for me, I'm in no hurry. Let them grow and get their feet under them. Let their balance improve and their minds mature.

 

[Farmgirl283420]

How is everyone doing?

 

[ShrekDawg]

How is everyone doing?

Good you!?

 

[Farmgirl283420]

Good you!?

I’m doing fine still missing cici!

 

[ShrekDawg]

I’m doing fine still missing cici!

Awww sorry!!!!

 

[Farmgirl283420]

Awww sorry!!!!

Thanks

 

[ShrekDawg]

Thanks

You’re welcome

 

[calicocows]

only got 1 ride in this weekend (was supposed to have 2) but i enjoyed it a lot! also found out i have some Opinions about horse ownership and lesson/ring-sharing etiquette.

 

[Peaches Lee]

How often does everyone shop for horses?

I'm looking at horses for sale every day. I like to keep an eye on the market, see where the prices are.

It looks like prices are holding, but to me, I see some are dropping and there is a lot more "motivated seller" or "negotiable" being added to the price tag.

I focus on dressage horses, Gypsy Vanners, Friesians and Andalusians in my search.