Respect the
growth stages

The Miniature Horse is a particularly versatile breed when it comes to work. Their close contact with humans makes them voluntary and curious horses by nature. This disconcerting ease of learning is surely explained by our relationship with him, which is harmonized by a training from equal to equal.

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If riding is generally prohibited, because of their size with little load-bearing capacity and a load capacity that cannot exceed 15% of their own weight , all other equestrian disciplines are accessible to them. The horse is above all, a traction animal and if cultural traditions have led us to ride them, we must not forget that their ability to pull is clearly superior to that of carrying.

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In addition, their Thoroughbred type morphology and their ample gaits allow them to develop good qualities in Long reins, in Show or even in Trail. Their weight varies from 70 to 130 kg for a traction capacity of around 200 kg , which leaves great possibilities for Driving, Ski-Roller Joering or even the Sled in snowy regions. It can also carry a weight that's not exceeding 15-20 kg depending on its conformation ; enough to lighten your load to go on a hike.

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Before any project, it is imperative to take into account the mental and physical maturity of your horse. Thus, it will be necessary to be careful not to skip the steps and to move forward in a coherent way with its growth and its desire. Work that is not adapted to its age and growth may lead to future physical weaknesses due to premature wear and tear (osteoarthritis, sprain, loss of condition, etc.),  a disinterest, a disgust for the activities in your company, even a degradation of the quality of your relationship.

 

With a youngster who is just weaned, it is above all a question of relationship and trust . Accepting contact on the whole body, giving feet, following with the halter and simply wanting to be near you because you bring him comfort are eveythings he can assimilate. You can work freely or in hand to learn voice commands and discover various Trail-type obstacles (ground cover, ford, slalom, pontoon, etc.). It is also the age of discovery, of respect, of listening. So do not hesitate to show him the outside world so that he becomes familiar with all the noises, shapes, colors, animals and is at ease in all situations, whether they arise in your company or in autonomy.

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After 2 and a half years, it is possible to start working a little in a circle, learn the transitions, respond to the voice and refine the training already done. While keeping in mind that a horse of 2 and a half years old has not finished its growth, especially at the level of the tendons and ligaments, it is therefore imperative to limit the loin in a circle and especially not to weary. Horses assimilate best on short sessions interspersed with moments of calm and relaxation. You can establish a program to organize yourself, 4 x 15 min per week for example, but do not insist on following it to the letter, let it evolve according to the reactions and the progress of your companion.

 

At 3 years old , you will be able to work more seriously on the hoop, add a bit to the long reins if necessary and having previously carried out a complete health check (teeth, joints, skeleton, feet, etc.) of your horse by professionals, start learning jumping on small heights and get to know the driving car and its equipment. Throughout his learning, it is important to keep a horse forward, calm and upright. This positive attitude will allow you to progress serenely and harmoniously.

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After 5 years, depending on the morphology, state of health and musculature, all disciplines are accessible with certain predispositions depending on the qualities of your miniature horse. For Driving for example, it will be advisable to choose a horse with clean legs, good angulations allowing efficient gaits, and a solid grip of the loins. If you wish to orient yourself towards Dressage, an animal with presence and energy will be to privilege. Finally, for an Equitherapy project, character and size will be key points in your research.

 

To conclude, work on foot is essential both with the young horse and with a more advanced horse. It is the common thread of your progress with him and the basis of his education. It allows both to put in place the codes and to develop a relationship of trust and respect . Whether in hand, Lunge, Long reins or Freedom, the work on foot helps to educate your horse and strengthen your relationship.