Braking young horses

Question
I have 2 young Oldenburge's. At what age should I  start to brake them? I have had horses all my life and have been showing sense 8th grade I am 43 now. I just have never had a warmblood before.
Thanks,
Carolyn

Answer
Hello Carolyn,

At age two you can break to saddle and bridle and lead them around.  No mounted work. Nothing more except grooming and farrier work.  Then at age three you can saddle, bridle and trail ride or work large in big arena under saddle.  No small circles or formal education.  Then at age four you may begin lunging, work on circles, all gaits under saddle. Horses do not mature until about age seven or eight, so until then be careful of work that stresses hock joints too much.  Alternate direction (rein) so one side does not get too stresses.

Best wishes,
Dorothy