minis

Question
I show in 4h mini trail and I had a question on training. My mini, Nevada has a hard time crossing logs and poles without stepping on them. I think it would be relatively the same as big horses but i do not know how to train him to cross them. Can you Help? thanks
Allison

Answer
Hi Allison - one thing I would look at is the distance between the poles....if they are too far or even too close together it can be hard for an equine to adjust their steps.

What I would do is set up some obstacles to practice on - and play around with adjusting the distance. One thing I did with my mare is teach her to 'step' when I want her to step over something - I think that helps her to know she needs to walk OVER the item. I usse that as a verbal cue to even step down into ditches, or over something she would normally want to jump over.

Also, remember that some are more picky about stepping ON things instead of over (like my mare - she doesn't like to step ON logs or even hit them).....

The biggest thing is to keep in mind practice, practice, practice.......be patient.....it is a learning experience for the 2 of you!

Good luck!
Lisa