Jumping age?

Question
Hi there,
I have recently received a 3 1/2 year old thoroughbred/cross gelding.
He is 15.2 hh and a hunter type build with a broad chest.
I am only doing flat work with him at this stage and have always thought that horses of this age are too young to start jumping.  At what age would it be suitable to start training him over smaller jumps? I have been told that he can start at age 4.  Would you agree?  

Answer
hi taela,
since he is 3 1/2 you can start him over ground poles and up to a foot high jump ( free jumping meaning with no rider) that way he gets a sense of good judgment on jumps and isnt strained. when he is four you can raise the jumps higher and start riding him over jumps a foot high. right now dont jump him everyday. he can do the ground poles everyday if you want but a foot high jump should only be done 1-2 times a week. when he is 4 you can do it more and possible everyday if his knees are fully developed. you can find this out by having your vet come out and check them. good luck with your jumper and merry christmas
amanda groff