Terrible Twos Question

[Jess P]

Little Diego has been the death of me these past few days. He is a colt (not gelded) and I know what to expect. Lately, probably because he is feeling his "oats" even though he hasn't dropped, he has lost all halter skills he learned. He stops in the middle of nowhere, rears while being led, bolt's around me. I am being very patient working with him, but he has just taken up a new sport. He likes to ROLL when he is on the lead, sometimes ontop of me if I am kneeling, trying to practice patience and setting up with him.

Will this last? Or will he settle down as he gets older?

 

[Fred]

Wait till you hit the "rearing up and flippping over backward for no reason" part.

Thats always been part I hated the most. I know one particular show mare that

spent more time on her back in the show ring than she did upright, and at the time

she was being shown by a well known well respected trainer! Thing is own a

daughter of said mare and she is bred to my stallion for an april foal. Guess that

qualifies for april fool on me! His hormones are probably starting to kick in and

knowing your colts sire looks like he's inherited his sense of humor. Linda B

 

[countryrose]

I went thru this last year with my boy. He was more into playing with me than behaving. It is always difficult to remember they aren't babies and now need to consider you in charge.

Do a lot of walking with him, stop often and say whoa. Make him stand a short while and walk some more. A jerk down on the halter and whoa should remind him to pay attention. Don't spend too long setting them up. Yearlings dont have a long attention span.

They don't really outgrow anything and will always test you in some way. Just up to us to keep them in line.

 

[Fred]

P.S. I'd talk to Liz as she handles Chucky quite well and has dealt with the

attitude! Linda B

 

[Jess P]

Linda, I will be sure to talk to Liz.

I have been anticipating when he decides to roll. I quickly jerk the lead and say "Quit" in a sharp voice.

I think the problem with him is opposite from yours, Barnbum. If he sees Jubilee or Chantilly he tries to get there as fast as he can. I will try out some of your tips!

 

[MiLo Minis]

You may want to try letting him get some loose exercise first to get the beans out before you try working with him at halter. Like all kids it is hard to concentrate when they would rather be playing.