Rearing

Question
QUESTION: I have an 8 month old (just) gelded young man that will rear when he doesn't get his way. He also uses his front feet to paw at you in play. He has reared once and went almost all the way over. How do I stop this? He also doesn't like me picking his front feet up for any length of time. How do I make him understand that these are MY feet and they are to stay on the ground unless I want them off the ground?

ANSWER: When you handle him, do you use a simple lead or do you use a stud chain?

I am not really a person who favors the use of stud chains, but in situations like this where a horse poses danger to you and itself, I would say it is needed.
It may help with the rearing situation, that and constant handling.

As for picking up his feet, time and patience.

He is only 8 months old, give him time.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I do not use a stud chain. He is very accustomed to being handled and leads, stands, backs, and bends when asked. His rearing has only been once all the way up but he will strike towards you when he gets excited or not getting his way. I am just trying to find a way for him to understand that his feet stay on the ground unless I ask for them.

Answer
Well, again, I feel that it is going to take time and patience.

The more you set/enforce your boundries and expectations, the better it is going to be in the long run.

The striking you describe is something I simply would not tolerate. I again suggest a stud chain to help you get your point across.