Pokey walk

Question
Hello,
I have been raised around horses and have halter broke quite a few. Although I know a lot about training, I know I will still learn more. I have been working with a yearling colt and he's been very calm with the halter and leads very well. However, he walks very slowly. How can I get him to walk at a regular speed?
Thank You so much.

Answer
Hi Lacey!

I would have him checked by a vet for common growth problems that can occur in babies' legs.  He could have a medical issue that makes him walk slowly.  I once trained a baby that would not walk up a small hill to go to T/O.

He had a stifle problem and several other issues and he was telling me he was in pain.

If the vet clears him, well he just may be pokey or does not yet understand he needs to keep pace with you.  Do not punish him, encourage him with food.  Place a bucket of treats or grain at one end and walk towards it.  Only do this occasionally so he does not always know when he will get a treat.  

He may soon be passing you on the right!!  LOL!

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

Solange