3 year old Arab Stallion

Question
Hi Solange,

I am in the process of buying a 3 year old Arab stallion bred and born in the UAE to use for endurance, but I also want him to be well mannered and school him as I am also planning to show him. He has had some light training although not consistent. I have a couple of questions and would really appreciate your assistance.

Apart from the usual behavioral / medical problems with Arab Stallions that I should look out for before handing my money over?

He seems quite docile and chews my clothes is this baby behavior or could it be more serious?

Is I mentioned earlier he is 3, is it the right time to break him? Do you have any suggested readings or books that I could use as a guide as this is my first time breaking a horse.

Thank you and regards,
Kirsty

Answer
Hi Kirsty!

My first suggestion is to geld him.  There are so many restrictions on showing stallions and if you do not intend to breed him, gelding is the best thing for him.
If you intend to keep him entire, you must prepare for the inevitable domination struggle you will have with him.

Owning a stallion has a few more concerns than owning a gelding.  First and foremost is that he must be constantly kept under a close watch and under tight and commanding control.  There is never a need to be cruel or extreme but, one must show a dominant no-nonsense attitude 24/7/365.  Stallions thrive on consistent discipline and in turn will show good manners on the ground and when under saddle.

Stallions are all very oral because of the biting and mouthy behavior during foreplay and breeding with a mare.  Any display of mouthy nuzzling, nipping or teethy behavior must be discouraged with humans at all times.  Otherwise, it will become out of control and he will start biting with complete disregard.

Arabs are generally not broke to saddle until closer to 4 years of age.  Since you have never broken a horse to saddle, I strongly suggest you hire a professional trainer with solid experience breaking Arabs and especially stallions.  Breaking a horse is a dangerous and complicated thing to do.  This is not a time for novices.  But, you may watch, learn and participate with the guidance of your trainer. This is a pivotal time in his life and you want the very best training for him to build a solid foundation.  He must learn to communicate with humans on our level as well as you must learn his special language.

I happen to own an 8 yr. old Arab stallion, have had him since he was 15 months old and broke him myself.  He is well-behaved, brilliant to ride and jump...a joy to have in my barn.  BUT....he would not dream of taking a step or moving without waiting for me to say it is what I want him to do.  This is the way it must be with all stallions all the time.

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

Solange