Early Training

Remember that babies can't focus on "the job at hand" for very long so make the weanling lessons no more than 15 minutes long.. As they learn each "lesson"  combine it with the ones he's/she's already learned.  As they learn more, mix up the leassons to make it more interesting for you and your baby. As with a human baby, each foal will learn at a different pace. Patience is the key to teaching. ALWAYS REWARD THE SMALLEST TRY ON THE BABY'S PART. They love to be petted (not patted) and told they're good!!

Always use common-sense working with horses of any age. Try to work in a horse and people-safe place.

New Born to Weanling

Weanling being 3 to 6 months old MAX

The sound of your voice and it's name. Talk at a normal pitch.

Be handled all over...That means feet, rump, legs, ears and tail. Your vet will thank you!

Grooming and handle feet. Make believe you're cleaning those tiny feet. Eventually tap gently a couple of times on the bottoms each time you pick them up. Your farrier will thank you!.

Halter and lead  at a walk. Eventually add the word "Whoa"

Go for walks away from the Dam. Start with short ones!

Stand tied for short periods. Be sure you pick a really safe place for this and stay nearby.

Stay alone in a stall. Again start with short periods!

Come when called.

Pose (stretch stand).

Load and Haul. Always with Dam at this age.

Weanling to Yearling

Over 6 months to 1  1/2 years

Lead over Obstacles. Lay down landscape logs, solid wooden pallets make good "bridges", mud puddles (you walk through too!),grass, pavement, cement driveways, etc.

Back up in a straight line. Start with just one or two steps and work up slowly.

The words "walk", "trot", "stand", and "easy"and what they mean for your baby to do.

Pony on trail rides. If you can't do this, or have someone do it for you, then just take them for short walks around the neighborhood.

Rub with a whip then go to a gentle tap for forward movement. DO NOT TEACH FEAR OF THE WHIP BY USING IT AS ONE!!!!! The whip is only used as an extension of your arm....nothing more.

Ground drive in long lines and mild snaffle bit. Use only an o-ring or d-ring. Start in an open bridle.

Start in mild bitting rig as a late yearling.

This is only a sample guide line that we have found works quite well. Just remember: to be patient, reward the small attempts they make to please you, be calm while teaching and most of all.....HAVE FUN!
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