Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Factors Involve In Horse Training

By Leonard Schmid


In the first two years of life, it is a good idea to allow the horse training preparations to start. This means allowing the animal to get to know the owner and interact with him in a friendly way. Next it can be introduced to the halter, bridle and saddle, equipment that is called tack. The halter is placed over the head and has a ring where a lead rope can be attached.

You may choose to use a Martingale rather than a bit. This is a piece of tack that guides the animal by placing pressure on its nose. If he is responsive, that may be the tack to use instead of the harsher metal bit in the mouth. Take your time in getting him used to either device.

The back must be carefully brushed so no debris is left to cause a sore from something rubbing against the it. A saddle blanket and pad are put in place and then a saddle. When the saddle is lowered on the back for the first time, the horse may be surprised. The weight is unfamiliar and he must get used to it slowly before being ridden.

Some breeds start training later than others. The usual time is between age two and four. The Lippizan breed matures slowly and thus, training begins at a later age. It is best to allow the horse with a barcoo bridle to get to know the trainer well before actual riding begins. Some owners, who wait till age two or so, and start right in abruptly, will have a more difficult time of it. The animal, as a result, may develop some bad habits.

There are numerous contests, performances and activities for an equestrian to take part in. The larger breeds are suitable to train as draft horses. The impressive Clydesdale and Percheron are strong enough to pull circus wagons and stage coaches. They are taught to tolerate heavy harnesses and be driven.

The pleasure trail equine, ridden for recreation, will learn the basics of reining, responding to whoa, and stop when the reins are pulled back. In Western riding, two single reins are held in the left hand. The reins against the neck and the weight of the rider shifting right or left in the saddle will signal which way to turn. Making a clicking sound will signal the time to start moving.

One challenging competition is the barrel racing event in a rodeo or Western show. Three barrels are set up in a cloverleaf pattern. The horse is trained to circle each barrel and then run at full speed back over the finish line. A quarter horse is most suited to this race. He can manage short bursts of speed from a stopped position and can turn on a dime. The rider will take him around the barrels without tipping one over and make it back across the finish line in the fastest time.

The rules include not tipping a barrel over. The goal is to cross the finish line in the shortest possible time. Horse training for this event takes patience, skill and a significant length of time. Start by taking him slowly through the cloverleaf pattern. The goal is to progressively shorten the time it takes to finish because fastest time wins.




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