Here's a topic I have posted on another forum that's primarily "horse-y", thought I'd give a forum that's more "cow-ey" a shot at this question, see if the attitudes are different, I'm guessing they might be.
My wife and I are having this discussion over what's the best circumstance to start training colts. I know there are lots of "what ifs" that go along with this topic, but lets' say we're talking "ideal" circumstances...
I say that you're better off starting out a colt that you've had since it was a weanling or even younger. I think it gives the animal a year or two to get used to you and trust being around you, it also has had a chance to get used to any distractions that may take place at your facility - dogs, cats, tractors, cars etc.
My wife says you're better off finding something that's ready to go under saddle right away - primarily because you don't have to feed them to do nothing for 2 years (she listen's to her dad too much! :roll: ;-) )
I realize that having a weanling creates the danger that you treat it too much like a pet, and it can get spoiled and/or disrespectful, but if you're careful not to allow that, I think that you can go a long ways training the horse before you ever think about taking that first ride.
What's every one else's thoughts and experiences with this?
My wife and I are having this discussion over what's the best circumstance to start training colts. I know there are lots of "what ifs" that go along with this topic, but lets' say we're talking "ideal" circumstances...
I say that you're better off starting out a colt that you've had since it was a weanling or even younger. I think it gives the animal a year or two to get used to you and trust being around you, it also has had a chance to get used to any distractions that may take place at your facility - dogs, cats, tractors, cars etc.
My wife says you're better off finding something that's ready to go under saddle right away - primarily because you don't have to feed them to do nothing for 2 years (she listen's to her dad too much! :roll: ;-) )
I realize that having a weanling creates the danger that you treat it too much like a pet, and it can get spoiled and/or disrespectful, but if you're careful not to allow that, I think that you can go a long ways training the horse before you ever think about taking that first ride.
What's every one else's thoughts and experiences with this?