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Post by lorrainem on Jan 29, 2016 22:25:53 GMT 1
Hi, I have just joined, this is my first post. I am hoping i can get some advise, i have got an 8 month old colt, he has been with me for 5 months now. We have moved on in many areas, head collar, leading, picks all feet up...just lol he will back up, move over but i have been unable to master 'stand' tbh i'm not sure where to start and he certainly doesnt get it! I have owned horses for many years but never anything this young Any advise would be appreciated
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Post by alonerawnut on Jan 30, 2016 12:27:40 GMT 1
He's still such a baby, I'm not surprised he struggles to stand still. I wouldn't worry about it too much: just move with him when you're grooming etc and give him a lovely rub when he naturally stands still. Can you distract him with a treat / lick when you need him to stand still?
Sarah Weston's book No Fear No Force would be a great help when training a baby.
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Post by kafee on Jan 30, 2016 20:06:57 GMT 1
I second everything alonerawnut has said. I can't remember how far Sarah's book goes with training, but it would definitely help you understand how to handle a baby like yours.
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Post by lorrainem on Jan 30, 2016 20:35:02 GMT 1
Ok Thank you, I will look into it, ?
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Post by alonerawnut on Jan 31, 2016 10:40:16 GMT 1
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Post by antares on Jan 31, 2016 15:25:51 GMT 1
Under what circumstances are you asking the horse to stand?
Is he in a stable? In the school? Are there other horses nearby while you are with this youngster?
Is he getting plenty of turnout with horses of varying ages including others of his own age?
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Post by lorrainem on Jan 31, 2016 22:09:22 GMT 1
He is out 24/7 but with another Colt so unfortunately no adult supervision, I am asking for stand while I work with him, he will stand for grooming without being tied, we are gradually working on learning to tie up ( I am trying not to rush things) when I finish if I back away from him he just follows. I like to use single words as commands he has picked up lift, over, back just not Stand lol I know he is young and its early days just wondered if I am expecting too much too soon.
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Post by antares on Feb 1, 2016 9:57:08 GMT 1
Then he is doing well if he stands still to be groomed at this age. If he moves towards you as you back away then break things down further 'stand' then just rock back on your heels - if he stays still then 'good boy' then 'stand' and take a small step backwards and build up from there Sounds like he is a little anxious at being left and / or his attention span is over. A young horse at that age really can't concentrate for long
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Post by lorrainem on Feb 1, 2016 22:19:27 GMT 1
Thank you, I always try and limit each session to around 20 mins, I will do what you suggest with him
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