Youngsters?

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ApolloStorm

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Now, the other day I was offered a 2yo as they didn't want him anymore. I said no because I had had no experience and can't afford any horses atm . But I was curious as to how would one go about teaching/breaking etc a youngster. Its something I would consider in the (very) far away future. And obviously one needs a professional to help but what actually goes on? Groundwork I assume and then what?
:)
Thanks x
 
It's not rocket science but easy enough to get wrong.

It's like training any animal: make the correct thing easy, pleasent and well rewarded. Reward good behaviour, ignore or correct incorrect behaviour and stop (and occasinoally punish) bad behaviour.

It's all about timing and having a clear idea what you want, and having the skill and confidence to ask and insist for it.

You need to teach them all the things adult horses need to know: how to tie up, how to stand still whilst tied up. Accept being touched and brushed all over, having feet picked up, rugs one, fly spray, bathed, clipped. Etc etc. How to load, how to lead. To keep out your space and not push or rub or barge. They also need to go out and see the workld: traffic, kids, dogs, shows, puddles etc.

Once they move politely away from pressure (and are old enough!) they need to learn to wear a saddle and brilde, to accept it all on the move. Learn to lunge and long rein and the stop and go commands. They need to accept people above them and weight on their back. Then it's basic schooling: how to go and stop and move away from leg pressure, and accecpt a contact.

It's all pretty simple and straight forwards and most youngsters are easy but you need to be consistent, fair, confident and patient and a clear idea of what you're aiming for at all times.
 
You have put it perfectly Kallibear,Ive broke in 4 of my youngsters no problem, because i have put in plenty of time with them, ive been helping a friend break their 3 year old in, that is handled well but, hasnt seen/done any thing, first time on board he went mad, first walk out in hand he was petrified, he is scared of every thing out side of his stable yard.
 
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