How to train a foal to accept being groomed

Foals can start to train during the week of birth; in fact, training is very successful if done this way, as they learn that you expect something from them from the very beginning. Touching the foal everywhere with your bare hands is great training to get them used to being touched. Placing a halter on them is called halter-breaking, as they learn not to be head-shy and to accept handling.

Things You'll Need

• Halter
• Hoof pick
• Sweat scraper
• Horse blanket
• Electric hair clippers
• Soft grooming brush

Instructions

1. Touch the foal from day one so he won't be head-shy or nervous about having you run your hands up and down his legs. Lift his hooves off the ground one by one, as if readying him for the farrier. This is all good training which will come in handy and lead to obedience in your horse. Run your hands all over the foal every day--don't skip a day; consistency is key to good training.

2. Groom the foal's tail often. Pick the hooves with a hoof pick. Place the halter on the foal's head every day to halter-break your foal. After a week, groom the foal with a soft grooming brush. Grooming the neck is always a big favorite; our horse loves her grooming sessions. Make sure that you groom the underside of your foal and pay extra attention between the inside of his legs. Switch on the electric hair clippers and run it around your foal's face to get him used to the sound and the feel of them.

3. Lead the foal around by a lead rope. At first, he may seem a little stubborn, but a tempting treat such as a handful of hay after the foal is 10 days old can work wonders; like dangling the proverbial carrot. Make sure you lead from both sides of your foal to ensure he will not favor one particular side. Load your foal into your horse trailer. Place a horse blanket over him. Bath your foal and rub him down with a towel. Get him used to the feel of a sweat scraper. Remember, your foal must be made to understand what you expect of him. Invest time into your foal and your endeavors will pay great dividends.