What to do with a 3yo rising 4?

[eventer28]

I backed my 16.3hh WBxTBxIDx Cob gelding over the summer and rode him away. Have been keeping him ticking over a couple times a week with hacks round the woods. He goes alone and in company, very well behaved and he really seems to enjoy himself! What do you suggest I do with him over the winter? Shall I leave him alone and start him again in spring or shall I continue with his light work?

 

[kerilli]

if he looks strong and like an adult horse, i'd prob keep him in light work. if he still looks gangly and as if he's still got to grow into himself, i think i'd give him a few holidays. or you could post a piccie and let us have a look!

 

[Dovorian]

Is he showing any signs of 'weakness' if you know what I mean? From personal experience I found that gently ticking over was best for a big baby chap, the one which was turned away came back into work much stronger and much cheekier!

 

[Cadaran]

I would give him a few months off work until early spring and then start again with light work. His breeding would indicate that he will be slow to reach full maturity so best not to rush things. I have a 16 hand youngster 18 months old WBXTB and that is what I will do when the time comes! Good luck!

www.petsinmemoriam.co.uk

 

[eventer28]

He looks like a BIG strong horse.. I'm a bit concerned that he will get a dippy back, his mum has huge shoulders and big withers which makes her back look a bit dippy and he has inherited her topline, shouders and withers...

 

[Cop-Pop]

When I backed my youngster I kept her 'ticking over' during the winter by taking her out in hand with the dogs and making mini handy pony courses in the school then leading her through to bombproof her. That way she was able to finish growing and stay in work/learn without my weight on her back.

 

[MagicMelon]

Id keep him ticking over but give him a month off at some point (January?) but Id try and get him out to any indoor in-hand shows over the winter (if you plan to compete).