training your foal

Question
Hi i have a couple of questions about my 1 month old colt, he is my first foal. I have been grooming him with no problem and picking up his hooves but when it comes to the leading he is a little iffy.  He is perfect when i put on his halter and lead rope but when i push him to go a little more then he wants to he either stops dead or gets a little pushy, but this is only after 5 steps or so.  I reward him by a good scratch but should i do that or pull him to do more, I've done that a couple of times and after he has done fine but when it comes to walking away from his mom he doesn't want to.  I just don't want to pull him and later him not wanting to be looking forward to doing it again or not want to.  Does this mean i need to spent more time with him and if so how much time a day would you say? help please

Answer
Hi Jessica, Yes, you should work with him as many times a day as possible. Horses need to learn to "give to pressure" as their natural response is to pull away from pressure. They also must be taught everything from both sides equally. When he braces against you, you could try to move him to the side, which will make him a bit off balance and get him moving for you. You should also work on getting him to go forward, side to side, and backwards. Talk to him, tell him he is a good boy, use carrots as rewards... He is young and you have a big responsibility. Leave me some feedback, a nomination if you wish, and post me a follow-up if you need more help or to let me know how it is going. Thank you. Regards, Susan