How to Develop a Horse's Talents

If you own a horse that you want to develop for showing or competition, you may have the dilemma of deciding what his talents are and how to develop them. Developing a horse's natural talents increases his value along with your enjoyment. Here are some ideas on how to develop a horse's talents.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pedigree
• Horse tack
• Jump poles and stands
• Barrels
• Poles
• Cattle

1. Look at the horse's pedigree. If there is a famous horse in their lineage, find out what that horse did and try doing the same. A horse’s genetics are a clue to what talents they may have.

2. Know that different breeds are better at certain sports. Long distance running and jumping is the forte of Thoroughbreds, Arabians have endurance, Quarter Horses are good for short distance racing, draft horses for pulling and the Paso Fino for smooth riding over rough terrain. There is a certain amount of cross over and a versatile horse excels in many disciplines.

3. Get thoroughly familiar with your horse by riding it as much as possible. Find out what the horse enjoys doing by trying many different things.

4. Brush and comb your horse to remove any dirt and stickers that may cause irritation, then tack up and go out trail riding. If he gets bored or spooks at everything, try something else.

5. Set up some low jumps and try jumping, or set up barrels and poles to try the patterned events if your horse is fast.

6. Find some cattle that you can drive around with your horse to see if she likes that. Check with your neighbors who own cattle to see if they need help working them, or find a training stable with some cattle.

7. Decide on a sport or event that suits your horse's talents, then practice with them at least three times a week to develop them in the sport. Give them lots of time to learn what they need to know, and then do repetitions until they can do it almost without your guidance.

Tips & Warnings

• Always inspect your tack before placing it on the horse for weak spots or other problems.
• Take the horse slowly at first, or you may sour them on the activity. Gradually extend your practice times to develop the horse's talents.
• Introduce new obstacles and situations to your horse carefully and slowly. Be ready for them to bolt at new things. If they do, just pull them up, calm them and then face the obstacle again.
• Never ride alone.
• Wear a helmet and boots or shoes with a pronounced heel for safety.