Age for a horse to start hunting?

[GraceDawson]

Hello all!

I want to take my rising 5yr old 14.2 Norwegian Fjord gelding hunting. Is he too young?

What experience should they have before they go out hunting?

Advice welcome!!

 

[L&M]

I have friends who bring out a variety of 3 yr olds for short days - great education and all that. They have no experience at all but sometimes behave better than the older horses! Have you got a friend who could 'nanny' your gelding; and would definitely put on a green ribbon!

 

[Dogstar]

I took all my various horses out at 4 years old and they all just got on with the job! I second the green ribbon and stay towards the back but not right at the back with the stoppers! Take him home before he gets too tired.
PS I love fjords, there was one out with the Bicester last Thursday.

 

[Darkly_Dreaming_Dex]

Our 3.5 year old did 11 days last season but never more than 1.5 hours and no jumping over 2', always with green ribbon.
This season we have a 4 yrs super mannerly hedgehopper who is also SJ double clears

 

[Chunkie]

I took my first two as four year olds.

My third one didn't go until he was 17 (I didn't have him until he was 15) and was an absolute nightmare - never took him again!

 

[junglediva]

i have relatives who take 3yrs old hunting! t doesnt really matter what age they are just aslong as they are fit and are fuly developed/grown!

 

[KatB]

Mine went on a few nicer days as a 4yr old

 

[livetoride]

I think you should be fine with your five year old.
Good luck. I'm sure you will have fun.

 

[alexrecord87]

I took mine out as a four year old, for the first few times he was a nightmare, but now a few months later hes perfect, jumps everything and is a complete gentleman! Im sure you'll have fun!