When can I start training my horse under saddle?

When can I start training my horse under saddle? 

Deciding when and how to commence your horse under saddle is a tricky question.  The basic principle is to educate or teach your horse to accept a rider on their back, different types of tack and the commands that go along with this. For a horse, the weight of a saddle and a bit in their mouths is so foreign, this takes time for them to accept, let alone the added weight of a rider as well. Accepting a rider is only one part of the process, you may be able to sit on your horse’s back but you also need to teach them your instructions or aids, so they know what you are asking them to do (i.e. steering and breaks).  All of this provides the foundations for them in the future and how well this is done will affect their behaviour and performance for the rest of their lives.  

Taking all of this into consideration choosing when and how to start this process is very important. You want your horse to feel safe and comfortable and have the best start to ridden life they can. 

• When to start your horse – There is no straight answer to this question. Every horse is an individual and a lot can depend on breed, temperament, prior education and purpose. For example, warmbloods primarily used for dressage (or other equestrian disciplines) are broken in at a later stage, whereas thoroughbreds bred for racing will be started when quite young. It is a personal decision that must take into account each individuals history, prior experience, growth, early maturity, environment, temperament and breed.  

• Who – You may choose to do it yourself if you have the experience or find a reputable horse trainer to do it for you. There are a lot of differing ideas on “breaking in” horses so choosing someone who has similar ideas to your own is a good starting point. Make sure the environment your horse will be educated in is safe and all your horses needs are being met whilst they are there. Have a conversation about your expectations so no problems arise halfway through the journey. Perhaps you may even be able to visit for updates throughout the journey. Most important of all, be patient with the process and don’t rush things.   

• How long will it take? – It can take anywhere from 4 weeks up to a couple of months, but this can depend on a few different factors. 

• Age of your horse – the older they are, the more set in their ways they can be. They may take time to adjust to new things being asked of them. 

• Prior handling and education – has your horse been halter trained? Has it already had a bit in their mouth? Have you shown your horse under halter? All these elements can make a difference in the amount of time it may take. 

• Temperament – how receptive your horse is to the process.   

Initial saddle training is probably the most important part of your horse’s education. Bad habits once leaned are very hard to change. It can take considerable time and money if it’s not done properly from the start. Make good, informed decisions so at the end of the process both you and your horse are happy. The cheapest thing about owning a horse is patience, it’s free so don’t rush this part of your horse’s journey!