Backed or unpacked?

Lippyx

Lippyx

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Hi all!

I am unsure whether to get an unbacked youngster, that is ready to start now, or get one that has been backed and just need bringing on?

I know there are pros and cons for both, and I know, knowledge wise I can do it, and will have plenty of help, but worried I won't do it well, and end up with a problem?

I want a cob or Welsh D type. Anyone have any advice or experiences?
 
Shysmum said:
hehe, fab typo !! I'm thinking a pony with suitcase in tow:D
Click to expand...

Yep - me too Shysmum (How's the hog?)

OP - if you are worried about buying unbacked then don't do it. You say you have the knowledge but then are worried you won't do it right - a bit contradictory imo.
 
If you experianced people around you ( as in start horses all the time ) the correct facilities then I would say either backed or unbacked.
You also need acess to company for hacking out when you are riding away.
If you're in any way not confident get a started horse.
If you are a rider who likes a horse who goes in a certain way then buy backed because you have a better chance of working out the end character of the horse , if you buy unstarted it's a voyage of discovery and you may not end up with want suits you.
 
if you get something unbacked, are you going to aim to get something that is ready to start backing right away or something that you have time to build a bond with first then back next year?
 
If you are experienced then I think you would be better with an unbacked three year old. They will be more reasonable to buy, and ready to start now.
 
Goldenstar said:
If you experianced people around you ( as in start horses all the time ) the correct facilities then I would say either backed or unbacked.
You also need acess to company for hacking out when you are riding away.
If you're in any way not confident get a started horse.
If you are a rider who likes a horse who goes in a certain way then buy backed because you have a better chance of working out the end character of the horse , if you buy unstarted it's a voyage of discovery and you may not end up with want suits you.
Click to expand...

This, however if you DO have the facilities, experienced support and company then I would say unbacked is the ideal for a cob or Welsh simply cos coblets benefit hugely from firm consistent handling from the earliest age possible, and backing them is the best way to ensure you do get what you want.

But only with the right set up. Eg I used to be in that setup and bought my filly and backed her with RI. She is my horse of a lifetime and I'm sure it's through getting her unbroken and young that she does not fit the stereotype of stroppy bargy Haflingers, she has converted a number of people here to the breed who had only met the Bad Haffies! BUT I'm now moved elsewhere and have horses at hme so no support, manège or company so I would not do it in this scenario.
 
I'd go for the green broke youngster. Backed and ridden away. Means you can get on with the schooling.

Either way you'll pay around the same.

It's fun preparing and breaking in your own but can be disappointing if the resulting horse doesn't have the right ridden temperament.
 
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