what should/shouldn't you do if your horse has not fully matured yet?

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eva

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phew, that's a long title :)

I have a 5 yo PRE and lots of people have been telling me they might not reach their full maturity until they're 7! Atm we're trying to do dressage, he's ridden 1h each day 6 days a week, which he seems to cope well with. I'm really scared to do something wrong with him, would you suggest anything not to spoil him while he's still (apparently) growing?
 
Avoid too much of one thing - I do a little schooling, hacking, jumping, ground work each week, ie a different thing every day.

I avoid lots of tight circles both ridden and on the ground, and any work that puts too much strain on the joints is kept to a minimum. They are only jumped on good surfaces and again, not too high and not too fast, and I avoid working on hard ground if possible, although not always possible when competing.

Our two are now 6 1/2 but won't finish growing until 8, and Farra is a very close behind Clydesdale, hence I am especially careful with her and she has been on a joint supplement since we got her at 4.
 
I agree - a bit of everything to keep them interested but not too much of anything.

I think working them so that you ask a bit more each time but not asking too much is also key - a good instructor is essential to help you do this.
 
short and sweet with variety and lots of turn out - take it the horses pace and dont worry if ou have to take a step backwards soometimes. The time you give him now you will reap later with a happy horse - good luck xx
 
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