Youngster advice. . .

[michellev123]

Hi
I look after a 1 year old (2 in April) colt. He is a gem to handle and im slightly in love!!!
Anyway back to the point!

I want to do some work with him, he leads out in company brilliantly and i dont think going out alone will worry him either. . .
I was wondering what i can do with him groundwork wise? To keep his mind active when i dont have time to take him out, he loves cuddles and will stand there quiet happy and follow me round the field.

He has learnt back up and walk on but want him to learn sideways steps. . . what is the best way to teach this?

And any other ideas will be greatly appreciated, we will be backing him very lightly when he is three so want to get as much done on the ground now so he breezes through!!!

Thanks
Michelle

 

[Bexaco]

I did all this with my mare when she was very young as I think its really important to have a horse that respects your space and it also helps once you are on board. for sideways I started by torching her flank and shoulder and pushing her gently at first and adding more pressure until she moved away( sometimes I had to walk my body against her stomach to cover a bit more of her) then when she did I told her she was a good girl and released the pressure but no tit bits. I gradually used less and less pressure and touched less of her till it got to moving away with a little prod with the finger.

you could try all the spook training - bags on whips, umbrellas, prams, push bikes, walking over plastic etc etc all of it will keep him thinking and help you out in the future. and of course loading, having clippers on him (obviously not actually clipping him).