training a lead rein pony

[hippo-horse]

Im working with a little cheeky boy,he was backed last year and now needs to continue his training.I was wondering what people look for in a lead rein pony,and what is expected in terms of behaviour and ability.its been a while since I was involved with tiny ponies,so Im well out of the loop!

 

[peaceandquiet1]

Manners. A lead rein pony should go on a long and loose rein and should walk and trot beside the handler without having to be "led." It should stand still when required and move off when requested but should not have big flashy movement for little riders. The lead rein, if in the showring, will be attached to the noseband only. When my daughter did lead rein I spent loads of time working the pony without the rider to train it. You do see people leading the pony with their hand right next to the head but that is not correct.

 

[hippo-horse]

Thanks horsemadmum1,I didn't know about the rein going on the noseband,and will work him from his shoulder in future.I need to do more of that anyway,as he likes to push against me with his shoulder!I hope that he is just testing me and it doesnt become a habit.I dont let him win,so hopefully he will learn quickly that its not worth the effort to fight me

 

[minesadouble]

Lots of work with with long reins and lots of work fully tacked with side reins (not horrendously tight though) getting pony out and about to see as much 'scary' stuff as possible - a spooky lead rein pony is a big no-no.

 

[Marley&Me]

This is really interesting. Following this thread with to hear more.