Gelding that mounts

Question
I believe it is natural for geldings to be interested in mares when they go into heat.  The problem is that I have one in a herd of 30 that is mounting and penetrating.  In addition, he is inattentive during training.  Both parts of this are things I would like to moderate if possible.  He has been with a mixed herd several years ago and never fathered anything so I don't think he is still functional.  He has been with geldings for the last few years and with my mixed herd for the last six months.  The attention issue has been getting worse and the mounting just started.  I know of stallions that can be trained when to work and when to breed, but since this is his pasture, I don't know if there is anything that can be tried.  Ideas would be welcome.

Answer
Hi Christine!

First, you need to have the vet out and have him throughly examined.  Occsionally, old-school emasculations left a gland that allowed the studdy behaviour to remain whilst still rendering them sterile.  But, ultimately you just have to make sure he is properly gelded and only a vet can do that.

Second, you cannot train horse on horse behaviour out of a herd.  So, the simplest solution is to put him out alone or only with other dominant geldings.

Lastly, he needs a much firmer hand during ground work and saddle time.  It would be best to just treat him as a stud.  Of course stallions can be trained and ridden with no issues....but, they need constant and consistent watching and you must anticipate issues before they arise.  If you feel this is out of your abilities, have a trainer out to give you some advice and of course when the vet is out ask them questions too.  And watch how firm and no-nonsense the vet is with him...and how he obeys the vet.  The proof is in the pudding.

Good luck and remember to always wear an ASTM/SEI approved helmet!

Solange