Mischief Farm | Young Horse Program

YOUNG HORSE PROGRAM

At Mischief Farm we believe the way a horse begins their riding career shapes who they will become and their outlook on work for the rest of their life. It is important to start a young horse the right way from the first time they are handled, right up to until they enter the show ring for the first time. These interactions will continue to shape a horse throughout their formative years and we truly believe when done well - and with a sense of humor and understanding - any young horse will blossom into his true potential.

We know many breeders and owners intend to compete or present their horses for inspection as a way to advertise not only the horse but also their breeding program. We are more than happy to help get your horse started on a path to success. Please contact us for more information and to prepare a program for your young horse.

Mischief Farm offers the following Young Horse programs

Backing/Starting

The first big step in becoming a riding horse is to confidently wear tack and carry a rider. We believe this process should be filled with a constructive and relaxed energy to build their body and mind toward their future riding career. Horses will be backed and started on the timeline that works best for each individual. Once a horse has completed our starting program they will be confident in their abilities to carry a rider and respond to basic aids.

First Year Training

Once your young horse has been backed and has the ABCs of stop, go, turn right and left, and back up then it's time for real training to begin. Each horse needs the same basic skills regardless the discipline they end up in. We can easily tailor each horse's training program to best prepare them for their future career.

Horse Show Training and Young Horse Class Training

A horse's first show is an exciting event and the emphasis should be on fun and learning. Their first show should be a low-stress introduction to the world of horse showing. This builds a solid foundation for their future as a winning show horse. A horse at any age can be successfully introduced to horse showing through our program. We also can cater to horses that are aimed specifically at age classes.

Training for Keurings/Inspections

Taking a horse of any age to a keuring can be a daunting experience, but especially so with a young one. We can prepare any horse for breed inspections regardless of age. We cover all aspects from handling and ground/triangle work to riding and preparation for performance tests.