training a shetland to drive- any ideas, tips etc?

[karenjj]

Hi, I've got a companion shetland who is 10hh and 4 years old and who I'm considering training to drive, he's got a great personality and is well built and I'm sure he'll take to it well but I'm not sure the best way to go about it- has anyone else trained shetlands to drive, any advice or ideas would be appreciated!

 

[Haniki]

I have trained a couple of shetlands to drive. I used to long rein them wearing their harness. Sallie Walrond has written a good book 'A Guide to Driving Horses' which would be helpful to you. If you haven't driven before it may be a good idea for you to have some lessons or go out with someone for some carriage rides. (I spent one Summer working for a company that did carriage rides, weddings and a bit of showing).

 

[muffinino]

Have you driven before? If not you really should get some lessons and learn yourself first.
Whatever breed you are breaking you should lay the ground rules out for them and, especially with driving, expect manners & obedience as standard. Shetlands can be particularly cheeky

and quick to take the P if you let them so don't let bad habits form. Always have somebody with you when you're driving to act as groom.

 

[kate081]

Go for it. I broke my dartmoor pony to harness when I'd outgrown him as a teenager. That book by Sally Wandress is good & I think there's a Thelwall guide (those thin books). I just taught him to long rein & went from there. Some people use a tyre on the floor before attached a cart but I didn't need to. It's great fun!