From a vet's point of view - and a 20 years of horse owner's, I just HAVE to repeat what others have already stated. I'm sorry for stirring up any disagreement arguing if that's whats going to happen BUT please do not ride a teenage (don't know the correct word in english) horse that is still growing. Unless what most people think, these "stronger" draft horses actually take more time "growing up". In my own country there are even breeds you're not allowed to break in before they turn 5 years of age, because they ARE still growing.
wirina holstein I have a genuine question for you, because actually it's refreshing to read someone who actually has the experience and knowledge to back up their argument, and I agree with you, the horse is young; very young, but at two years old I really don't see anything that they're doing that could result in harming the horse. What they're doing is really only backing him, they didn't put a saddle or bridle on him, she's not trotting him or doing anything else. From what I can see, they're merely getting him used to the weight of the person on his back. It wasn't for long, either, could that really still be that damaging to the horse?
Camille N. Thank you for the trust. Well, you're absolutely right that if the only thing they're doing, is sitting on his back for a short while, he's not harmed. But as his skeleton is still growing and settling and actually changing too (some bones relocate a bit and sort of "get in place"), then if they start to train him, no matter how little weight he'll carry, he will move and compose his stature in relation to the weight on his back.
Camille N. And if the most exercise he gets (in a human hand, not free) is training in riding, this is what he will be evolving his movements to. His back, even if he's huge, are so vulnerable because its still growing. Therefore the points between the spinal "disc's" are not as sturdy and carrying a person can affect the shape of his back. This is not the worst though.
Camille N. A young horse's back can be trained still after they're finished growing, by certain exercises. Like humans with scoliosis's can benefit from occupational therapy. But its not ideal. The shoulders is the most crucial thing for a drafty like this one. His shoulders are already in the angle that make many draft horses so comfortable to sit on, but he can have them develop to "flatten out" if he carry (or pull) weight this early.
Camille N. And his shoulders cannot be soothed and trained into a slightly better condition, later on. If you imagine grabbing your cat (or anything that weight) and stand up and think about your stature while having it in your arms. That's a different posture with your back and shoulders. Even though the cat is not heavy you need some sort of stability and good "grip" on it, and you use your back and shoulders a lot more than you'd think, for this.
I am an old Dressage trainer and a veterinarian. My sincere belief is that this horse would sustain no damage to physique or welfare from this exercise shown in this video. It appears to be more about trust and tameness than asking this youngling for real work. Yes, horses take a while to grow up (3yr to 8yr depending on the individual animal), and training should be tailored to suit not only the body but the mind of each. Tricks and exercises to tame and get any horse ready for future work can be quite beneficial at age 2 (or even a bit earlier) as long as the trainer keeps things short and sweet to accommodate the short attention span of youth. If the animal is calm and receptive to training/taming you have to think "why not" and if things point to yes for any individual, go for it. Just keep it short, friendly, and rewarding for the horse. A very great trainer that was my teacher long ago said: " Ask often, demand little or nothing, reward generously" [ Chuck Grant ] Nice video Lindsay Holland. Elvis looks very kind.
This Clydesdale is far too young to have anyone on his back. Just because he is a big horse does NOT mean he is ready to be ridden. These big boys are very slow to mature as his bones have not even stopped growing yet. And before anyone comments, I have two of these boys. You ask any responsible heavy horse owner and they will tell you the same thing. The problem is the damage will not show itself until a few years later. Utter stupidity and absolutely no concern for this animal's welfare long term. Its ok to have a bit of fun though isn't it. He's just a horse.
+Dave “Doglatin” Desmond Agreed! Recent research shows that in a lot of cases horses leg bones don't mature until 5 or 6 years old. Even more so with the bigger breeds whose legs have more weight carry.
+Dave “Doglatin” Desmond As a 2 year old, how close is he to being full grown? And by that I mean full size. I don't have a lot of experience with horses. I have ridden a few (even bareback) and I was able to photograph the Budweiser Clydesdales a few years ago. This horse looks kinda small compared to them. I actually live in the same county where this was filmed.
frogsoda At 2 he would be if he were a Thoroughbred, already on the track racing. But at this age, light training like this won't hurt them due to the massive size of their bone structure. I'm more curious as to WHY the owners haven't said anything, as they were the ones who uploaded the video.
what does massive bone structure have to do with it? they're bigger, but they actually mature slower and don't stop growing til they're closer to 8. I've got a draft and would have never considered to sit on him at 2. size doesn't matter when it comes to horses in general. TBs on the track are broken down by being run too hard too fast. They don't mature til way later either. But of course money's more important than their welfare....
Well regardless of age or how tall and stuff or big boned it is best to wait until they are 6 years old before doing a lot of anything. I know that there are a ton of people that disagree with what I have to say, but look it up for yourselves, all you're doing is damaging the bone structures of a very wondrous creature.
For pete's sake people, do you not read descriptions? This horse has been under this woman's training for a year. It's being trick trained. That is why it can sit like a dog would. He seems like a very good boy, and I don't think this woman did anything wrong. Yeah a helmet would be nice, but she obviously trusts this horse.
Soooo many people who think they know everything... I just have to say again that this video is great. It shows a calm, trusting young horse experiencing a person on his back for the first time and doing very well with it. He's obviously been treated well and trusts them, since he's not even phased by the woman climbing up on him. As for all of the negative Nancys out there: yes, 2yr is too young to start serious training, but this is just a short, slooooow walk around the round pen with a lightweight rider, on a big ol' horse. He's plenty big enough to support her weight, and they're not asking anything that is worrying him, or anything that might cause harm to his body (or mind). Short sessions like this, started early, are far more rewarding for a young horse than just pulling them out of the pasture at 3 or 4 and hopping on and expecting them to start working. He'll be much more trusting and a much more willing partner for his rider in the future, thanks to this sort of training.
Lots of comments on immature legs. However, the big injury is to the lumbar spine. Sitting on the young one, being lead a few steps, etc. isn't work, just teaching. Prolonged weight causes the spinal processes to rub together which can result in arthritic action as the horse ages. The breed which stays soundest into old age is standardbred trotting racers. They don't carry weight! The three year estimate is correct as it takes that long with careful work to develop muscles, ligaments and joints to carry the rider and move with the horse in a balanced and kindly way. By the way, riding is considered a contact sport so proper head gear is considered good form and professional. In my opinion, the opposite is ignorance and laziness. By the way, I've been riding since I was 4 and am now 72 and still pretty sound.
Poor horse :(.... He is way too young, you need to wait until a horse is at least 3, now you just ruin it!!! He can get problems with his back and with his character now... One more year of waiting would save his future, now matter how you look at this it's always wrong
Young horses without training don't have the muscles that are necessary for carrying riders without harm. Compare it to human sports: Even if you're in a very good shape because you're competing in marathon, you don't have the muscles necessary to lift weights. Moreover, not riding horses at this age is not mainly about the muscles, but about bone growth.
He's lovely!! I've always had a soft spot for the giants. I used to care for and ride a Belgian gelding and had to hand feed a Belgian filly because her Mom didn't produce enough milk. They were some of the sweetest horses I've ever known. I used to get on Bud (the gelding) bareback with just a halter and lead and lay on his hindquarters while he grazed. Though, he did take me on some adventures a few times...like unexpectedly going outside or through the barn hallway (which I might add is only six feet tall, we barely fit!!) but I was young and didn't discipline him enough at that time. He (and I) got much better after that. He turned into a very responsive and agile horse, especially for his size.
He's still a young horse, too young for that use. Horses should be ridden only when they are 3 years or older. Their bones and muscles keep developing till the age of 6. Riding too early causes lifelong harm to joints, bones etc.
It's lovely to read how everyone is automatically assuming the horse is getting ridden systematically. Maybe they just tested him for a few minutes, say 3, and only repeated it once a few months, after proper warm-up and with patience, to get the horse used to the idea?
the sitting him down was a bit questionable but I agree that simply sitting on him will not hurt. Knees knit differently on different horses. I start my 2 year olds (quarter, thoroughbred, warm blood, just horse) with a saddle in the stall, observed. I sit on them and let them walk around - no turns - no more than a few minutes. Gets them into the spirit of things. The thing I find amusing is the idea that this is any surprise. I have never (20 years maybe) had one buck. Refuse to move forward with a look like - what are you handicapped? You walked up to me, why should I have to cart you around? is the worst reaction. Had one who after the first two times would walk around for a few minutes and then lay down and wait for me to get off. That is about as exciting as it gets if you have established trust.
Max Allan you are compleatly right Clydesdales are not even bred for riding witch meand that its back will develop much slower than other average sized riding horses ( usually this effects many draft horses) their chest will grow faster as its body is made for pulling riding should be introduced to draft horses aroynd 4 even if it sound old and "only sitting cant can't do damage" that is not guaranteed with undeveloped and sensitive spine
I say you did a great job. I started my Belgian at two also with my grandkids, she had so much fun that day with all the attention and new things to do..
I love, love, LOVE Belgians!! I commented above about caring for a gelding and a filly/Mommy duo. The Mom didn't produce enough milk so we had to hand feed the baby, it was the sweetest thing!! And, the gelding was such a doll. I was as big as his head, but he never hurt me. I used to lay around on him while he grazed. They are wonderful creatures.
Well done! What a gentle giant he is. That is the same reaction I got with my filly the first time I got on her back. She's a tiny little arabian so I waited until she was 3, but we had done so much groundwork since birth that she took it all in with no fuss. I was a little apprehensive, had my helmet on, an extra person to hold her, and expected a reaction, but she just turned her head and looked at me as if to say, "what are YOU doing up there?"
I clicked on this video expecting to be horrified at the fact someone was going to attempt to sit on the back of a 2 year old and be shocked but I was very pleasantly surprised :) good job
great one. a friend of mine used to do this (health problems; not sure if she'd do it again). she works solo though and did this with her rescue mustangs. (still has 'em, too!) great job and a gorgeous horse; love the draft horses!
Just because it's a clydesdale doesn't mean it's ok to mount an unbroken horse, especially at the age of 2, the cartilage in the knees haven't even fused yet! Not to mention the cartilages in the back.
I own a 4 year old, he was trained at 2 and the vet said everything is fine. Most horses are started at 2 years, I don't see the big deal. I have seen soooo many horses being trained and mounted at two years old with no damage, chill people.
Yes, that's also so popular with racing horses... They start racing in competitions as a child, the racing isn't the worst thing for them, it's the age. When they're not even close to be done with growing:( That's why they die so early. At our barn, we have a racing horse (he is 25) and he looks like 40. He can barely walk, and is too thin (like very old horses). Then, we have another horse (same size, same breed) that is 27, looks like a 16 year old and is still ridden. Poor, poor animals, that be just use to make money, then no care about them....
He sat on him and walked around! She didn't do an endurance race. I have gotten on all my horses backs at 2 and 2 1/2 i start training. If he was a small pony i would have seen your point other than that! The horse is fine!
To everyone bitching that the horse is too young. You CAN break in a horse at two and not cause adverse effects, I am a vet and horse trainer and we break every horse at 2 and all of them have gone on to live long, sound careers. The key is the kind of work you do. We break horses at 2 years old and spend an absolute minimal time on their backs, instead we work on the brain. This is especially important with colts being left entire if you want a well-adjusted ridable stallion. They are ridden on gentle surfaces for no more than 15 min at a time and only at gentle paces, we work on lateral flexion and softness, not vertical collection or speed. Another thing to take into account is the individual horse, some are nearly fully grown at 2 years old (particularly QH or TBs compared to warmbloods), while others won't be mature until 6 or so. You take that into account with the work you do, and then turn them out once you've achieved all you can at that point on the brain. The result is a far better horse than one that is left untrained until 4yrs +. Now as for this video, I would not do much work on a clyde this young, however she is not causing any harm with anything in the video. Sitting on your horse for a few minutes will not ruin his back and legs and the girl is bareback and light and they remain on a soft surface at the walk. While I don't agree this is achieving anything constructive training-wise this will not harm the horse, however I do hope she doesn't do anything more than that and more ground work with him until he is a year older.
I feel like that may have been a bit too young😬 especially since big bodied horses tend to mature a bit slower. I will give his reaction some cred tho👌 very good boy
As long as they arent doing strenuous work such as trotting, cantering or jumping on a young horse like this, there is nothing wrong with getting him used to having someone on his back. Its true that larger horses like this dont have fully fused knee caps until they are about four, but just walking like this is a good trust exercise.
Says in the description "don't try this it's very dangerous"! *goes and gets on a 2 year old unbroken draft horse WITHOUT a helmet*!! She must be stupid -_- I know some people think helmets don't help but seriously this horse is 2 and unbroken. Is that not a lilt stupid?
Frankie Marsom My best friend wore a helmet, got bucked off, and the horse kicked her in the neck...killing her....did the helmet protect her? no...so get off ya high fucking english pony.
Yeah, I agree with you, I've only ever ridden once without a helmet on my 12.2h 28yr old pony for about 1 minute in his stable and I still felt dangerous!
I don't ride with a helmet. And I rode a horse who was in broke did I get bucked yeck yeah....but what if your neck snaps I don't think a non cracked head is going to really matter if your neck, arm, leg, or back is broken.
@17petsandcounting i think if you read carefully he was trick trained so he has never learned any cues and is only 2 years old. This is only the beginning of his training as a riding horse! so read before you comment.
Very much agreed. Posted about it on another comment. You always think you're ok until it happens to you. Like I said above, I broke my back after a hard fall and my helmet saved me from breaking my head. Sadly, a woman I ride with did crack her skull on what was supposed to be a relaxing trail ride because she wasn't wearing a helmet. Just my opinion, but I hate to see riders get hurt from something that could have been prevented.
SunnysRoyalSkipper she did not crack her skull BECAUSE she didnt wear a helmet, she injured herself because she fell, only people who dont know how to fall right have to wear helmets
Mia Porterfield That's a lie, people who don't know how to fall right have to wear helmets. My trainer has been riding and training dressage horses for over 35 years and was thrown in January by a clients horse. She was wearing a helmet, like everyone should, and she still ended up with a broken shoulder and a mild concussion. This was being thrown at a canter, from a 16.3h Holsteiner. If you want other examples, look at Courtney King Die, who as an Olympic rider, was thrown from a young horse, in a coma for several months and is still not 100%. It has nothing to do with knowing how to fall, it has everything to do with "do you really think you're that good?" And at 53, I've been wearing a helmet for years, and thankfully I haven't been thrown since 1996.. but am I going to take a chance? Oh HELL NO! Let's hope you don't get thrown.
Denise Mobers your trainer is a fucking bitch by the way You are NOT a true horseman, you know nothing of true horsemanship as proven by your comments portraying the horses as just beasts, horses do not throw their riders for nothing, which means you have to do something, and if you actually knew true horsemanship than you would be able to sense your horse's next move, and not be caught unawares. THAT is the reason I have never been thrown, because I know how to move with a horse and sense what they will do, first time ever riding the horse, K.C tried to throw me, I was eight years old and riding bareback, did I fall? No. I look down upon people who get thrown and claim it wasnt their fault, and no I dont wear a helmet, are you going to force me to? Is it your decision whether or not I wear a helmet? No it isn't. So fuck. Off.
LOL, get angry much? The horse that threw my trainer was an OTTB, that had some issues. This mare has since thrown her owner as well. Funny, where did I say anything negative about horses? I said you are lying. So Courtney King Dye, (do you even know who she is?) was thrown because she did not anticipate the actions of a young green horse? Hm. Let me see.. there is no such thing as a bomb proof horse. Period. And it is pompous to think that there is. There is always something that could spook a horse. Sorry, you have issues with my statements. I've been around horses for 45 years. Guess what? I've been thrown a couple of times, not always my fault, not always the horses fault. And I said nothing about requiring YOU to wear a helmet, I was speaking about the child. You're an angry young person, that's obvious by your use of vulgarities. If you truly think you will never be thrown from a horse for any reason, I really hope that you have some common sense and are wearing a helmet. Take a look at the FEI requirements for helmets? Do you even know what the FEI is? How about USDF? Or are you a hack that just trail ride? II have nothing against hacking, I do it myself, but always with a helmet on. I'm sorry you're so angry. Actually no I'm not, it's rather amusing. Why? Because at some point, if you're unlucky, which will happen, you will fall off a horse for any number of reasons. I am well aware of what good horsemanship is. I'm not a hack rider, I'm not some person that just gets on any random horse without checking it out first. I will always ride with a helmet because when it gets right down to it, horses are prey animals and therefore can and will react to many things that go on around them. Have a wonderful day! (notice that I can disagree and have a decent conversation without tell you to fuck off? That's below me. Oh obviously I'm beneath you as well, because you are the perfect rider)
I like the horse reaction: "I've got something on my back, what is it ?!!!" *frozen horse*. It seems he needed to look what's going on on his back before moving but you took his head first. It's just a little thing to make him more in confidence. But I think you have the right attitude with this horse, on this video.
Heavy horse breeds are too immature to be ridden at that age - their bones aren't strong and formed enough. Why was the colt sitting down? These people should not be training horses. My grandfather bred these horses and he was Champion Ploughman of Scotland several times. I spent many happy hours riding on the horses' backs as my grandfather ploughed, when I was a small child. This was in the 1950's. They are the most noble and beautiful creatures in the world.
It's indeed very dangerous if you wear no protection at all. If he decides "Had enough of this, off you go, silly biped" then you've got a concussion because you decided not to wear a helmet. And if that was just a risk, then you could argue it wasn't worth complaining about, if you get injured, others have to put you back together again, and it does make people think helmets and other protection aren't needed while horse riding.
I've been riding, showing, breaking, and extreme trail riding for 30 years and I have never worn a helmet nor will I ever wear a helmet while riding! I' had horses throw me and I've had crashes on mountainsides and have never had the need for one! People are free to make their own decisions still and I can't understand why someone that knows so little about this topic thinks they can tell everyone else what to do! Try minding your business and I'm sure the riders will do the same!!!!!
Here we go helmet police do your worst :) LOL. Ok so here are my thoughts... 1. Do I use a helmet when I ride? Sometimes 2. Do I make beginner riders wear helmets? Always! 3. Do I think I should bitch and whine about what this lady did? No! Its her life and her responsibility. Do I want her to get hurt? No. Why does every one care so much to make it their damn business. MANY people ride without helmets should they have been wearing one? Probably. But its not my business as long as the horse and me are safe b/c the rider DECIDED TO PUT HER/HIS LIFE IN DANGER NOT MINE. Are your lives in danger through your computer screen? No. so stop complaining.
+Key's Future I think its due to the irony of the warning at the beginning and that they are suppose to be professionals breaking a horse in and uploading videos. When a person decides to put their life in danger its not just about themselves, if anything does happen they potentially can traumatize the horse, not to mention the people who will have to mop up their body and who also see the accident, their friends/family etc etc Sure we have to take risks in life but taking ones where there is little logic or gain doesn't make sense to a lot of people. It shows lack of professionalism and carelessness. Hats were not invented for no reason and other than looking pretty and not having a hot head what function does not wearing a hat serve? It shows that you either do not care about yourself or believe that you are invincible. I can even slightly understand riding a schoolmaster that you've known for years with no hat, but to attempt to break in a 2 year old, the first time hes ever been sat on is just bizarre.
Of course it is amazing how calm and relaxes Elvis reacts....and there is a lot of work done. But I just don't understand why someone would mount on a 2 years old horse. No matters what breed this horse is.....or how big/tall he is. Of course Elvis is as tall as a other horse, which ist maybe 6 years old and completly grown. But he isn't with 2 years and his body isn't ready to carry a human. Althoug he is already so big.
I agree and disagree with everyone. A 2 year old being mounted is risky for the horse, some horses can lead to back problems, and I've seen some have growing problems. But starting light mounts at a young age (2 1/2 and up) can also be good for training your horse when it has reached the age that is good for riding. Also that horse is not "Unbroke" an unbroken horse would probably throw you off or freak out. I also agree in this situation a helmet would have been a good thing to wear. This is a very large horse and it is a long way down, if this horse is so "unbroken" why is there no helmet on the "professionals" head.
Love to read horse comments: so much stupidity..bad for his back! She's tiny !!…LOL. And bareback even lighter and more ideal.. How do you think the Indians broke wild horses?..had to wait for a European with a saddle?
yes david, i guess back in the day all the us old timers broke all the rules. our horses were broke at two and there were no such thing as helmets. btw indians broke horses in water lots of the time.
Actually, I agree with you. As I said before, only light work with a 2yo is good. I never said these horses are worked every day. Their rides are spread out throughout the weeks. One of the fillies I know is very good with the basics of riding and is comfortable doing it. She gets LOTS of breaks and her owner knows that she shouldn't be pushed. I also said starting at 3 is a better idea but starting at 2 won't ruin the horse if they're trained properly. Reread the comment you replied to.
U ARE TOTALLY WRONG. That horse is 2 years old! Old enough for u to ride him. I have a horse and she is 1 and I can ride her -_- in horse years it's young, but it's sorta like a teenager. Learn ur horse facts
StarStable Connie U Are wrong! with one year it's a BABY! I know very much about horses and their training. I trained a lot of young horses. But riding only with three... or later. otherwise it's abuse... the bones and so on where not strong enough in this age! YOU have to learn the facts!
its okay, many horses are starting the breaking process at two years old, it doesn't cause any back problems on a Clydesdale horse. this is because in the breaking of a horse you are not riding it all the time, it is the process of simply introducing weight to your horse. It is generally more done off the ground anyways until they are around three and their spine has fully developed. thank you if you read all of that and no i did not mean it in a way to intentionally hurt you. Thank you again :)
Here, I can point out a helmet is not required. Seeming as this Clydesdale was very patient, and what I call WELL-TRAINED. Secondly, not all horses are to be riding/ridden at 4+. Some horses can be ridden at younger ages. 1 however, is not a required age. 2 Is a real age for a Clydesdale I believe. They took this in slow steps to not frighten it, didn't they? YES. So, what are you guys fussing about? :)!
Hey, I don't have a problem with the video at all, I actually thought it was awesome! But I just wanted to point out that draft horses like clydesdales mature slower than the lighter breeds, so if you really wanted to break them at "the right age" it would be much later than 2. But most horses are started too young so, what can you do. For real riding, probably more like 5 years old for a draft. Ground work is anther matter, that can be earlier.
actually it doesn't matter what breed they are, the growth plates don't close together till the horse is about 3 rising 4 that is why you are meant to wait as long as pos before putting any pressure on their young frame. Its the lack of knowledge and education why ppl work horses too young eg. 1 and 2 yr olds,ppl take advantage of the breeds gentile nature, and their willingness to please.
Basing helmet usage on a train/non trained horse is ridiculous. Even the most well trained horses can spook and that will be it for you. Promoting not wearing a helmet will get some people killed. Nice job.
My only comment is Helmets! Horses are unpredictable animals and a helmet could save your life. I know, they know this animal but everyone I know who has taken a serious fall has known there animal far longer than they have known this one. As someone representing your company you need to set an example for kids watching and learning. Helmets are cheap, light and can save your life. Rant done!
I have ridden almost every day since I was 6 helping run a cattle I now run barrels and team rope. Yes I have been thrown off a number of times cracked and broken ribs, mostly, I have found it usually doesn't make any difference its all about chance and knowing your horse. Some of my horses some of them iv known for 14 years and trust them completely. I have been thrown and kicked in the head dumped in rivers on multiple occasions but still would not wear a helmet by choice.
S. Thomas In the late thirties we visited some kin in Ohio who had two of this kind of horse. My cousin and I were about nine years old. We took the horses out in a lot and my cousin got on the back of the younger unbroken horse. Everything looked good but then the horse ran at full speed to the barn and entered the barn through a doorway. My cousin ducked in time to keep his head from being bashed in.
Although this was unsafe for her not wearing a helmet. Riding bareback, if you do it properly, will give you a better feel for how he is reacting and you also can get a better grip if you use your thighs correctly than if you were in a saddle. This really does demonstrate the beauty of giving a horse the proper training and the bond a horse and trainer can develop through the journey. Also I don't agree with starting a horse at 2 but every person is entitled to their own opinion so don't be rude
very nice! yeah I'm gonna buy one as soon as I can afford one and i have enough space to let them be horse like they should be:) my 2 haflingers will stay no mather but one of those heavy's would be so awesome! very cool that your horse does well at competitions! i have a lot of problems with the jury because they don't like seeing Haflingers, they prefer normal horses.. I love your way of dealing with them! good that there are still people like you, they are getting rare..
Okay, reading all these comments makes me want to throw in my own opinion. Now I am only 12 years old, but I have literally grown up with horses. My famly owns a Guest Ranch, and have about 45 head of horses; all of these horses are either unbroke, western, or driving horses. They were not started at such young age, but all are healthy. I live in Alberta, Canada, which, as most of you probably know, is cattle country. Most people here ride western, meaning we wear cowboy hats instead of helmets. If you ask an old rancher why he never wore a helmet, his reply would most likely be, "My cowboy hat was the best helmet I've ever worn.". This is because we take the time to know our horses. We trust them with our lives. Now I am not trying to over power English riders; I respect all of you and would never be able to ride in such a saddle as you do. But my point is, Clydesdales are used for western or driving more than english. Now this woman not wearing a helmet was definitely not a smart move, and I am questioning wether or not she is a true professional, but she was not alone; she had at least two other people with her, and her horse didn't react from pain, or nervousness while she was upon his back. Yes, I understand he is not mature yet, as my family raises draft horses. But it is okay to ride a young horse for a small amount of time maybe once a week. I know this because I have a 3 year old colt, named Red Lodge Survivior, or Sur for short, he was orphaned at two weeks old, as his mother had to be put down for retaining placenta, which is a death sentence for horses. We raised him by feeding him milk from a bucket, and he became more of a dog than a horse, we rode him around his pasture occasionally, for a short amount of time, and he is still as healthy as can be. So this video does not deserve all this hate it is receiving. Now I disagree with some of the details in this vidoe as well, but they probably had this planned out carefully, and it ended well, did it not? Anywho, have a very nice day eeryone! :)
he is way to young to be riden, wait atleast untill he is 3+, why this hurry? ive trained horse for more than 35 years now and no horse no matter race is ready to be ridden as 2 year old. So let him be a young horse and give him time.
Michaela Listen, person. I get the fact that you've been training horses almost as much as my mom has been alive, but this helps his mind work, like a brain work out. And as far as I know, the woman was only on him for like probably just about maybe three minutes. I've started my family's fillies and colts with just putting some weight on their backs so that they can get used to it, then after my mom deems them well enough, as well as our vets, we put them into training. Not like the human equivalent of being a Navy SEAL, but small workouts that last like 10 minutes and challenge their brain. Then after they get older we bump up the length and skill of our training, by like 15 minutes. So just chill the eff out. If you don't like, go away, even though I sound super hypocritical.
Juniper Clarins No, but lighten up on the woman. Haven't you risen a young horse to get them use to a person on their back? Or something of the sort? All I can tell is that she rode him for maybe like 5 minutes or less, just stop judging her. If the horse ends up a bit wrong in the spine, she's learned to not do that again.
Michaela Enemark I have a question based on what you mentioned regarding riding age, bear in mind I know zip about horses, but love them....aren't race horses, like at Kentucky Derby, 2 year olds? I know the horses are much smaller than this beauty, as well as jockeys having a weight limit, is that what makes a difference, or are those horses in trouble as they age? Thanks
Sherri Moore Yes, racehorses can be and are often raced at two, and it is really detrimental to their health. No horse should have to carry a rider at two, especially at a full gallop
Why would you sit on an unbroken horse Big OR Small without a helmet? Just because it might not save your head if he STEPS on it, I am pretty dang sure it would save your head if he rolled on top of it with his body. Dumb parents I swear... then we are made to feel sad when people die due to them thinking they can outsmart safety. Yes, you are big and bad you haven't gotten hurt yet, so lets wait and when you DO get hurt, you will finally wear a helmet. You know... sometimes the first can be your last. Be a little more smart than that. Fyi how would a helmet hurt you? 9 times out of 10 it would help. Not wearing one due to the slim possibility of it failing, is asking for death.
Ya exactly why would somebody do that especially if she doesn't have a helmet on another thing that I'm really p.o.'d about they put a warning sign before the video I think peoplehave ridden a horse before
Helmets are fine if you are riding a race because they are required. Otherwise, forget it. I've lived over 60 years and never been injured by the lack of a helmet.
I'm going to have to agree with the helmet issue. I've taken some very hard falls (I broke my back falling off my QH!!!) and if it weren't for a helmet, I probably would have had worse injuries. I know tons of people that don't wear them and have never gotten hurt, but I also know a lady that cracked her skull and was in a coma from falling on a simple trail ride without a helmet. She lost her senses of taste and smell, suffered memory loss and even had personality changes. Yes, that was sorta a worst case scenario, but I also know people that have had concussions, been kicked in the head (after falling), etc.
Lee Alexander I've never crashed a car, but I still wear a seatbelt. I've never been run over, but I still look both ways when crossing the street. You shouldn't need to suffer an accident before learning the lesson, because it's designed to save your life *before* an incident like that happens.
I don 't know what all the fuss is about. That colt has never been abused in his life. As for helmets, they can be a useful tool, but as all horse people know you can take all the precautions in the world, and still get hurt with the gentlest of giants. To wear or not wear a helmet is a personal choice just as playing with a 1000+lb animal is a personal choice. Bashing is not nice. Cute video, sweet colt.
I hope you get to own a Clydesdale one day. Wish you were in the UK, I would have let you ride my beloved 'Patrick'. When you are older, come over to the UK to a place called Hurst Green Shires. It is Heavy Horse Heaven and you would love it XX
You are 100% correct Brianna.I have two beautiful Clydesdales and these babies should not be backed to ride until they are at least 3 and we don't train them for carriage work until they are 5! Big does not mean ADULT. You keep posting your replies.I take my hat off to you and keep up your good work. My two Clydesdales are also thankful to you for highlighting idiots like the ones in the video. Just because they call themselves animal trainer does not mean they know what they are doing!
Ok people you are being ridiculous. It is NOT going to irreparably harm this horse to have a person sit on him at the age of 2. They didnt do anything strenuous or difficult. It was more of an exercise for his mind than anything else. The horse is going to be just fine
Chloe Ponyblanket we had an OTTB who had only two races…he was only 10 when we got him and had extensive arthritis from early, hard training. don't use the race industry as an example of how to treat horses…unless you mean a bad example
I have to agree that the racing industry is not a good example of safe backing at a young age. The horses are worked hard before they are ready. however, this horse is not being ridden or exercised, he is only getting used to the idea of a person on his back. That will not harm him, galloping him around everyday will.
Chloe Ponyblanket just cos the race horses are riden at 1 does not make it right, the only reason they are ridden at such an early age is because of MONEY and nothing else
Trena H the trick training is not always good for a young horse and his growing, to ensure longevity one should let the young body finish growing before asking it to do anything that involves undue pressure.
Love the way you must have trained this great looking horse by massage and touch to the point where it is not sure if it is getting touched or there is someone on his body, ;-) Very well done, this is the first time I have seen this horse and you I think, unless you are the girl who owns then pretty little pony with the white mane? Is there more videos of this training and what happened up until now? Take care mrbluenun
2 years? a horses bones are still growing at such a young age! yeah he is big and has strong muscles but to early training could damage his bones permanently. typical. people want the horse be trained fast so they can profit from it asap. thats how so many end up abused and scared. like the horse my friend adopted after he broke his nose, dislocated his shoulder and injured his back from early training and fast ways of getting horse used to plastic bags. u want a healthy horse? u need patience and invest into training as long as the horse need it.
Wow Lindsay and I have not been together in over three years. I was showing some videos of my Florida days to friends and saw over 800,000 views. Just to clarify Elvis was a trick horse. What we did that day was a one time stunt, and was never performed again. For all of you who thought this was cruel well you have a right to your opinion as I have a right to mine. The whip was an extension of my arm and Elvis understood whip cues very well as we did extensive liberty training with him. He was not a personal horse this was a paying job for us and as an ongoing client it was always nice to show them something new. This video was not intended to be anything more than what it was some thing to create a buzz something to show people who we were. 800,000 views equals mission accomplished. Now love on lovers and hate on haters.
Nate's Wanderings Its about the application of the whip, in this case, just a touch, a stroke, as you would with your hand if your arm was that long! Most effective to just put a bit of pressure, they instinctively move away from it, being herd animals. Slight pressure is all that is needed. Whips are not to be used for 'whipping', in spite of the name.
+Jasmine Gradington it is a Heavy horse,it takes longer time for their boned,I wasnt clear sorry because warmbloods are in Races in that age but their not heavy
Lol I was like. Why are all these people sayin that you can't ride at 2.. Because IV been breaking my own horses. And I don't necessarily start riding then at 2 but I do put a saddle on em when they are 2.. But alot of people do ride . right after they turn 2. What's really bad is of they arnt 2 yet. .
+LinneasDream ikr, the spine is like popping out, but its nothing compared to mine (not actually mine, but from the stables), his withers are popping SO much, from all the riding
The Plains Indians obtained their horses from the Spanish ranches in new Mexico, first established by the Spanish explorer Juan de Oñate in 1598. By 1750 the horse had spread north to all the Plains tribes, including the Blackfoot in Alberta, Canada.
I swear you idiots that keep saying that this is abuse because this horse is only 2 are dumb... YES riding a normal 2 year old is wrong BUT that is a REALLY big 2 year old and the woman sitting on his back and being led around the ring once probably weights nothing to him!! It would basically be like a 5 year old carrying their first backpack to kindergarten that only has crayons in it!! lol I am sure this big boned draft horse can handle that without breaking down... This is not abuse!
Erin Tubb He's not being worked though. He's simply being led around at a walk. He probably puts more stress on his joints just running around a turn out. I agree that horses, especially drafts, should be given plenty of time to mature before being "started" but this can hardly be called work for this horse.
***** I think the point Casey was trying to make was in reference to the impact *this* ride is having on this horse, which, as you already stated, is "most likely not going to cause any damage." For heaven's sake, there's not even a bit in his mouth, she just has a rope around his neck. I say bravo to these people for taking baby steps with this boy, so when it comes time to really start him it will be much easier for everyone.
Until a horse one average, is four years of age (age varies from breed) their spinal vertebrae relocate themselves, therefore riding a horse at the age of two is wrong. Youre correct in saying just this will not damage the horse in any way. But continuous riding/weight bearing will leave the horse with long term damage. Just because he is a big horse makes no difference at all. His spine is still developing and will not have finished developing until he is 4-6 years of age.
I dont think the whip/stick is abusive at all, its used as a tool for helping the horse out. I would much rather prefer a little help from behind than slamming your heels into it's sides. I do think she should be wearing atleast a helmet :)
WOW!! LOOK AT all the negative comments..geesh..you would think most people live in a world where everything is wrapped with bubble wrap. Ease up people. He is a clydesdale!!! She isnt going to hurt him at all. lol. Horses are broke at the age of 2years old everywhere. Get a grip!!!
Not everywhere.. I think 2 yr olds are too young to be started. They're not physically mature yet and their bones are not fully developed or fully capable of supporting both their weight and the riders, even as a big and muscular breed it's too young. At two years old they still have a lot of growing to do, mentally as well as physically. Personally I would wait until they're at least 3 or even 4. But yeah he's a clydesdale and is a strong horse, and he accepted her very nicely
Aya Louise Yes they are....western pleasure 2yo futurity horses are broke out and have 30 days on them when they go to shows. And so are most horses. They are riden for approx 15 min per session 2-3 times a week. that isnt going ot hurt them with a rider that weighs less than 150 lbs. This gal didnt ride the horse for very long..didnt hurt him at all.
Well that's your opinion.. 15 min is still pretty long even if the rider is less than 70 kg (We don't use lbs here so.. ^^ ) But in my country western riding is not that popular.. even though it look really cool with the pretty little sparkly shirts and fancy boots with spurs.. Lol.. Even if it was popular it's just commonly known that you shouldn't start a horse before it reaches 3 yrs of age. That same 'rule' is told on every equestrian facility i've ever visited.
Why would people even try to do these things without a helmet? Its just so stupid, I wouldn't ride a 20yo bombproof schoolmaster without a helmet let alone a 2yo unbroken Clydie
+Camerin Andaloro - I grew up riding and training horses in Texas. I've never worn a helmet although I don't have anything against those that do. People have ridden horses for thousands of years without helmets. However, on a green unbroken horse... I'd consider it now that I'm old. I'm glad that you are a cautious rider however it is unfair to call others stupid who choose not to ride with one. Would you call anyone that participates in extreme sports, smokes, rides motorcycles helmetless, or drives in LA traffic stupid? ... I might. .
STOP BEING A HELMET POLICE. It isn't your choice for the person to wear a helmet! It is there opinion, you won't die from not wearing a helmet. Now go away and stop saying "WEAR A HELMET WAAAAA WAAA WAAAA"
So this is coming from someone who's never broke a horse or seen one broke in real life before... But shouldn't they be about 3-4? I mean even if it's not a skinny thing you should still be careful right..? Or am I completely wrong here... I have no clue.. Maybe this horse is fine with it. Idk...
Why should it be okay because he's a Clydesdale? They are Draft horses, even less made for carrying riders on their back than other breeds. Honestly, I don't think his breed is an excuse for riding him this young. He probably didn't get harmed in this video, but I wouldn't do this with a young horse of any age more often.
Well considering I've been around horses since forever.. I know Clydesdales and bigger horses take a lot longer than smaller breeds to mature especially in bones and spines, so just giving me his breed isn't answering my question but thanks.
+Emily Duke Because it sets a bad example? Because its dangerous? Because someone else will have to mop up your head if anything should happen just because you didn't want to put a hat on it.
For Pete's sake haters, they didn't take him on a trail ride or do anything more than advance him to a new stage. I bet the girl wasn't on him more than a few minutes. I think these people were very considerate of the horse and I believe they are doing a good job. It was a very calm and kind situation. The horse was calm and comfortable and it's obvious he trusts his owners. Also, when you have a good valuable animal you are careful and considerate of it's upbringing and physical well-being.
Thank God we have a sensible person ! Totally agree with your comments. I have worked with genuine Heavy Horses (drafts) -i.e. Clydesdales, Shires and Percherons for over 40 years. These people have no idea the damage they are doing-this horse is still a baby. Heavy horses have the nicest temperaments and will do virtually anything asked of them. This horse's behaviour is typical of a heavy and nothing to do with groundwork training - if you haven't been around heavies take note! Sheer madness
Look, this is showing an incredible amount of trust, not stupidity. I don't ride with helmets and I'm a trainer working with draft horses. I'm still alive. 2 year old horses are worked with all the time, as long as they're not pushed too hard they're fine. Yes, it does matter what size and breed the horse is, if it were a miniature pony it would be terribly inappropriate to be doing anything but ground work, but this is a CLYDESDALE. And she barely rode it. Have you ever trained a horse?
Yeah, it;s possible to ride a horse that you know well without a helmet, in a narrow space like that one is, if she knows how to dismount and has ridden before. It's called "every trainer did it" (i guarantee there are little trainers who can say otherwise :) ) and "experience". Also calmness, and knowing the equine behavior.
I dont understand the hate comments. This horse is going to be great for riding. Myb im not a pro, i ride for 2 years now and i dont see anything bad in using a whip while you ride or while you are lunging your horse or so. It doesnt really hurt the horse, its just there so he could know he needs to listen. A whip is not a horse abuse. An average rider needs to have one..
Before riding a horse it should EVER be outgrown. If not they back could deform and you can probably only ride them a few years. Clydesdale and other big horses need like 4 years to develope strong bones and if you ride them in this young age,even if you don't brake them mentally, you will probably destroy its health.
+Dave Biewer Well it is, all you need is one time and something can go wrong. Besides his character may change as well now... This can be nothing else than wrong! Maybe this won't hurt him, but that doesn't make it right, you need to wait until the horse is at least 3 years...
Been doing this for decades and never met a vet who said that racing is wrong for Tb or other racing breeds. These horses are cared for MUCH more than average horses or even show horses. The level of care is astonishing and expensive. The owner is not who the vet works with; it is the trainer. Again you show that you don't know what goes on at a professional racing stable. It is the trainer's JOB to make darn sure that horse is healthy and sound, or the race goes down the tube!
From a vet's point of view - and a 20 years of horse owner's, I just HAVE to repeat what others have already stated. I'm sorry for stirring up any disagreement arguing if that's whats going to happen BUT please do not ride a teenage (don't know the correct word in english) horse that is still growing. Unless what most people think, these "stronger" draft horses actually take more time "growing up". In my own country there are even breeds you're not allowed to break in before they turn 5 years of age, because they ARE still growing.
wirina holstein I have a genuine question for you, because actually it's refreshing to read someone who actually has the experience and knowledge to back up their argument, and I agree with you, the horse is young; very young, but at two years old I really don't see anything that they're doing that could result in harming the horse. What they're doing is really only backing him, they didn't put a saddle or bridle on him, she's not trotting him or doing anything else. From what I can see, they're merely getting him used to the weight of the person on his back. It wasn't for long, either, could that really still be that damaging to the horse?
Camille N. Thank you for the trust. Well, you're absolutely right that if the only thing they're doing, is sitting on his back for a short while, he's not harmed. But as his skeleton is still growing and settling and actually changing too (some bones relocate a bit and sort of "get in place"), then if they start to train him, no matter how little weight he'll carry, he will move and compose his stature in relation to the weight on his back.
Camille N. And if the most exercise he gets (in a human hand, not free) is training in riding, this is what he will be evolving his movements to. His back, even if he's huge, are so vulnerable because its still growing. Therefore the points between the spinal "disc's" are not as sturdy and carrying a person can affect the shape of his back. This is not the worst though.
Camille N. A young horse's back can be trained still after they're finished growing, by certain exercises. Like humans with scoliosis's can benefit from occupational therapy. But its not ideal. The shoulders is the most crucial thing for a drafty like this one. His shoulders are already in the angle that make many draft horses so comfortable to sit on, but he can have them develop to "flatten out" if he carry (or pull) weight this early.
Camille N. And his shoulders cannot be soothed and trained into a slightly better condition, later on. If you imagine grabbing your cat (or anything that weight) and stand up and think about your stature while having it in your arms. That's a different posture with your back and shoulders. Even though the cat is not heavy you need some sort of stability and good "grip" on it, and you use your back and shoulders a lot more than you'd think, for this.
I am an old Dressage trainer and a veterinarian. My sincere belief is that this horse would sustain no damage to physique or welfare from this exercise shown in this video. It appears to be more about trust and tameness than asking this youngling for real work. Yes, horses take a while to grow up (3yr to 8yr depending on the individual animal), and training should be tailored to suit not only the body but the mind of each.
Tricks and exercises to tame and get any horse ready for future work can be quite beneficial at age 2 (or even a bit earlier) as long as the trainer keeps things short and sweet to accommodate the short attention span of youth. If the animal is calm and receptive to training/taming you have to think "why not" and if things point to yes for any individual, go for it. Just keep it short, friendly, and rewarding for the horse. A very great trainer that was my teacher long ago said:
" Ask often, demand little or nothing, reward generously" [ Chuck Grant ]
Nice video Lindsay Holland. Elvis looks very kind.
Wonderful comment.
The first thing a "Trained Professional" Would do it wear a helmet. No question about it. How professional that is?!....
Ok Karen.
@@JohnnyKaw11B lol I was like 14 when I wrote that XD my bad
Of course you were 14, because that's what every trainer tells a kid, helmet is #1 most important thing
Not your horse not your barn people will take risks as they see fit
Helmets are for wimps
This Clydesdale is far too young to have anyone on his back. Just because he is a big horse does NOT mean he is ready to be ridden. These big boys are very slow to mature as his bones have not even stopped growing yet. And before anyone comments, I have two of these boys. You ask any responsible heavy horse owner and they will tell you the same thing. The problem is the damage will not show itself until a few years later. Utter stupidity and absolutely no concern for this animal's welfare long term. Its ok to have a bit of fun though isn't it. He's just a horse.
+Dave “Doglatin” Desmond Agreed! Recent research shows that in a lot of cases horses leg bones don't mature until 5 or 6 years old. Even more so with the bigger breeds whose legs have more weight carry.
+Dave “Doglatin” Desmond As a 2 year old, how close is he to being full grown? And by that I mean full size. I don't have a lot of experience with horses. I have ridden a few (even bareback) and I was able to photograph the Budweiser Clydesdales a few years ago. This horse looks kinda small compared to them. I actually live in the same county where this was filmed.
frogsoda At 2 he would be if he were a Thoroughbred, already on the track racing. But at this age, light training like this won't hurt them due to the massive size of their bone structure. I'm more curious as to WHY the owners haven't said anything, as they were the ones who uploaded the video.
what does massive bone structure have to do with it? they're bigger, but they actually mature slower and don't stop growing til they're closer to 8.
I've got a draft and would have never considered to sit on him at 2.
size doesn't matter when it comes to horses in general.
TBs on the track are broken down by being run too hard too fast. They don't mature til way later either. But of course money's more important than their welfare....
Well regardless of age or how tall and stuff or big boned it is best to wait until they are 6 years old before doing a lot of anything. I know that there are a ton of people that disagree with what I have to say, but look it up for yourselves, all you're doing is damaging the bone structures of a very wondrous creature.
For pete's sake people, do you not read descriptions? This horse has been under this woman's training for a year. It's being trick trained. That is why it can sit like a dog would. He seems like a very good boy, and I don't think this woman did anything wrong. Yeah a helmet would be nice, but she obviously trusts this horse.
Hello
Soooo many people who think they know everything... I just have to say again that this video is great. It shows a calm, trusting young horse experiencing a person on his back for the first time and doing very well with it. He's obviously been treated well and trusts them, since he's not even phased by the woman climbing up on him. As for all of the negative Nancys out there: yes, 2yr is too young to start serious training, but this is just a short, slooooow walk around the round pen with a lightweight rider, on a big ol' horse. He's plenty big enough to support her weight, and they're not asking anything that is worrying him, or anything that might cause harm to his body (or mind). Short sessions like this, started early, are far more rewarding for a young horse than just pulling them out of the pasture at 3 or 4 and hopping on and expecting them to start working. He'll be much more trusting and a much more willing partner for his rider in the future, thanks to this sort of training.
"Don't try this at home." I doubt if I could fit a Clydesdale into my house.
Lots of comments on immature legs. However, the big injury is to the lumbar spine. Sitting on the young one, being lead a few steps, etc. isn't work, just teaching. Prolonged weight causes the spinal processes to rub together which can result in arthritic action as the horse ages. The breed which stays soundest into old age is standardbred trotting racers. They don't carry weight! The three year estimate is correct as it takes that long with careful work to develop muscles, ligaments and joints to carry the rider and move with the horse in a balanced and kindly way. By the way, riding is considered a contact sport so proper head gear is considered good form and professional. In my opinion, the opposite is ignorance and laziness. By the way, I've been riding since I was 4 and am now 72 and still pretty sound.
Poor horse :(.... He is way too young, you need to wait until a horse is at least 3, now you just ruin it!!! He can get problems with his back and with his character now...
One more year of waiting would save his future, now matter how you look at this it's always wrong
Yeah, I kinda agree. We break our horses in at 3 but they are not to be jumped till 4-6 years!
Young horses without training don't have the muscles that are necessary for carrying riders without harm. Compare it to human sports: Even if you're in a very good shape because you're competing in marathon, you don't have the muscles necessary to lift weights. Moreover, not riding horses at this age is not mainly about the muscles, but about bone growth.
No you can break horses when they are 2 at the least
He's lovely!! I've always had a soft spot for the giants. I used to care for and ride a Belgian gelding and had to hand feed a Belgian filly because her Mom didn't produce enough milk. They were some of the sweetest horses I've ever known. I used to get on Bud (the gelding) bareback with just a halter and lead and lay on his hindquarters while he grazed. Though, he did take me on some adventures a few times...like unexpectedly going outside or through the barn hallway (which I might add is only six feet tall, we barely fit!!) but I was young and didn't discipline him enough at that time. He (and I) got much better after that. He turned into a very responsive and agile horse, especially for his size.
this is like sitting on a toddlers back.
A toddler is not a very good comparison to a young Clydesdale.
He's still a young horse, too young for that use. Horses should be ridden only when they are 3 years or older. Their bones and muscles keep developing till the age of 6. Riding too early causes lifelong harm to joints, bones etc.
He's basically a toddler. A baby. He should be playing and light training (no riding) is all right, for 2 years old it's max 2 times per week.
I understand this was 3 months ago, but very agreed.
This is like putting a 1lb doll on a toddler's back... Not gonna do much harm.
Beautiful horse landed in the hands of idiots who do not give him the chance to reach his full potential in life
Because the horse is too young.
It's lovely to read how everyone is automatically assuming the horse is getting ridden systematically. Maybe they just tested him for a few minutes, say 3, and only repeated it once a few months, after proper warm-up and with patience, to get the horse used to the idea?
the sitting him down was a bit questionable but I agree that simply sitting on him will not hurt. Knees knit differently on different horses. I start my 2 year olds (quarter, thoroughbred, warm blood, just horse) with a saddle in the stall, observed. I sit on them and let them walk around - no turns - no more than a few minutes. Gets them into the spirit of things. The thing I find amusing is the idea that this is any surprise. I have never (20 years maybe) had one buck. Refuse to move forward with a look like - what are you handicapped? You walked up to me, why should I have to cart you around? is the worst reaction. Had one who after the first two times would walk around for a few minutes and then lay down and wait for me to get off. That is about as exciting as it gets if you have established trust.
Max Allan you are compleatly right Clydesdales are not even bred for riding witch meand that its back will develop much slower than other average sized riding horses ( usually this effects many draft horses) their chest will grow faster as its body is made for pulling riding should be introduced to draft horses aroynd 4 even if it sound old and "only sitting cant can't do damage" that is not guaranteed with undeveloped and sensitive spine
I agree👍 that horse should be in a better position
This is truly amazing. coming from a heavy horse lover, all i an say is good job you guys im sure it wasnt easy!
I say you did a great job. I started my Belgian at two also with my grandkids, she had so much fun that day with all the attention and new things to do..
I love, love, LOVE Belgians!! I commented above about caring for a gelding and a filly/Mommy duo. The Mom didn't produce enough milk so we had to hand feed the baby, it was the sweetest thing!! And, the gelding was such a doll. I was as big as his head, but he never hurt me. I used to lay around on him while he grazed. They are wonderful creatures.
Well done! What a gentle giant he is. That is the same reaction I got with my filly the first time I got on her back. She's a tiny little arabian so I waited until she was 3, but we had done so much groundwork since birth that she took it all in with no fuss. I was a little apprehensive, had my helmet on, an extra person to hold her, and expected a reaction, but she just turned her head and looked at me as if to say, "what are YOU doing up there?"
I clicked on this video expecting to be horrified at the fact someone was going to attempt to sit on the back of a 2 year old and be shocked but I was very pleasantly surprised :) good job
I love these horses, they are massive, and so beautiful
great one. a friend of mine used to do this (health problems; not sure if she'd do it again). she works solo though and did this with her rescue mustangs. (still has 'em, too!)
great job and a gorgeous horse; love the draft horses!
It's always amazed me how big they can get at just 2 years old!
I've never seen a horse "sitting" until now, nevermind getting mounted that way : )
Thanks for sharing this video.
How awesome it must be to ride a Clydesdale. They are beautiful.
AMAZING! You are a very talented rider!
I don't like when people say a horse is "broken". It makes them sound defeated. That's a beautiful horse. :}
Just because it's a clydesdale doesn't mean it's ok to mount an unbroken horse, especially at the age of 2, the cartilage in the knees haven't even fused yet! Not to mention the cartilages in the back.
em, because its a clydesdale and with its weight it is not too young for a person to sit on its back
I own a 4 year old, he was trained at 2 and the vet said everything is fine. Most horses are started at 2 years, I don't see the big deal. I have seen soooo many horses being trained and mounted at two years old with no damage, chill people.
Why would you get on a horse before he is at least 3? Especially a draft who takes longer to mature
I guess because they want to make more money with the horse:(
Shari Maggie yeah, its so sad because thats fairly common and it sucks for the horse who isn't done growing and it can mess them up
Yes, that's also so popular with racing horses... They start racing in competitions as a child, the racing isn't the worst thing for them, it's the age. When they're not even close to be done with growing:( That's why they die so early. At our barn, we have a racing horse (he is 25) and he looks like 40. He can barely walk, and is too thin (like very old horses). Then, we have another horse (same size, same breed) that is 27, looks like a 16 year old and is still ridden. Poor, poor animals, that be just use to make money, then no care about them....
He sat on him and walked around! She didn't do an endurance race. I have gotten on all my horses backs at 2 and 2 1/2 i start training. If he was a small pony i would have seen your point other than that! The horse is fine!
When you think that. I don't think so, but it is not my horse that has pain when older because of me. Erica lastnema
To everyone bitching that the horse is too young. You CAN break in a horse at two and not cause adverse effects, I am a vet and horse trainer and we break every horse at 2 and all of them have gone on to live long, sound careers. The key is the kind of work you do. We break horses at 2 years old and spend an absolute minimal time on their backs, instead we work on the brain. This is especially important with colts being left entire if you want a well-adjusted ridable stallion. They are ridden on gentle surfaces for no more than 15 min at a time and only at gentle paces, we work on lateral flexion and softness, not vertical collection or speed. Another thing to take into account is the individual horse, some are nearly fully grown at 2 years old (particularly QH or TBs compared to warmbloods), while others won't be mature until 6 or so. You take that into account with the work you do, and then turn them out once you've achieved all you can at that point on the brain. The result is a far better horse than one that is left untrained until 4yrs +. Now as for this video, I would not do much work on a clyde this young, however she is not causing any harm with anything in the video. Sitting on your horse for a few minutes will not ruin his back and legs and the girl is bareback and light and they remain on a soft surface at the walk. While I don't agree this is achieving anything constructive training-wise this will not harm the horse, however I do hope she doesn't do anything more than that and more ground work with him until he is a year older.
I feel like that may have been a bit too young😬 especially since big bodied horses tend to mature a bit slower. I will give his reaction some cred tho👌 very good boy
As long as they arent doing strenuous work such as trotting, cantering or jumping on a young horse like this, there is nothing wrong with getting him used to having someone on his back. Its true that larger horses like this dont have fully fused knee caps until they are about four, but just walking like this is a good trust exercise.
Says in the description "don't try this it's very dangerous"! *goes and gets on a 2 year old unbroken draft horse WITHOUT a helmet*!! She must be stupid -_- I know some people think helmets don't help but seriously this horse is 2 and unbroken. Is that not a lilt stupid?
Frankie Marsom The horse is broken, just not broken to saddle. Big difference. However, I do agree with the helmet issue. Not smart on any horse.
Frankie Marsom My best friend wore a helmet, got bucked off, and the horse kicked her in the neck...killing her....did the helmet protect her? no...so get off ya high fucking english pony.
I Dunno where that link came from lol
Yeah, I agree with you, I've only ever ridden once without a helmet on my 12.2h 28yr old pony for about 1 minute in his stable and I still felt dangerous!
I don't ride with a helmet. And I rode a horse who was in broke did I get bucked yeck yeah....but what if your neck snaps I don't think a non cracked head is going to really matter if your neck, arm, leg, or back is broken.
@17petsandcounting i think if you read carefully he was trick trained so he has never learned any cues and is only 2 years old. This is only the beginning of his training as a riding horse! so read before you comment.
Cues are used in trick training as well.
The threat of a whip made him stand right up.
She should be wearing a helmet -- very cool though!!
Very much agreed. Posted about it on another comment. You always think you're ok until it happens to you. Like I said above, I broke my back after a hard fall and my helmet saved me from breaking my head. Sadly, a woman I ride with did crack her skull on what was supposed to be a relaxing trail ride because she wasn't wearing a helmet. Just my opinion, but I hate to see riders get hurt from something that could have been prevented.
SunnysRoyalSkipper she did not crack her skull BECAUSE she didnt wear a helmet, she injured herself because she fell, only people who dont know how to fall right have to wear helmets
Mia Porterfield That's a lie, people who don't know how to fall right have to wear helmets. My trainer has been riding and training dressage horses for over 35 years and was thrown in January by a clients horse. She was wearing a helmet, like everyone should, and she still ended up with a broken shoulder and a mild concussion. This was being thrown at a canter, from a 16.3h Holsteiner. If you want other examples, look at Courtney King Die, who as an Olympic rider, was thrown from a young horse, in a coma for several months and is still not 100%. It has nothing to do with knowing how to fall, it has everything to do with "do you really think you're that good?" And at 53, I've been wearing a helmet for years, and thankfully I haven't been thrown since 1996.. but am I going to take a chance? Oh HELL NO! Let's hope you don't get thrown.
Denise Mobers your trainer is a fucking bitch by the way
You are NOT a true horseman, you know nothing of true horsemanship as proven by your comments portraying the horses as just beasts, horses do not throw their riders for nothing, which means you have to do something, and if you actually knew true horsemanship than you would be able to sense your horse's next move, and not be caught unawares. THAT is the reason I have never been thrown, because I know how to move with a horse and sense what they will do, first time ever riding the horse, K.C tried to throw me, I was eight years old and riding bareback, did I fall? No. I look down upon people who get thrown and claim it wasnt their fault, and no I dont wear a helmet, are you going to force me to? Is it your decision whether or not I wear a helmet? No it isn't. So fuck. Off.
LOL, get angry much? The horse that threw my trainer was an OTTB, that had some issues. This mare has since thrown her owner as well. Funny, where did I say anything negative about horses? I said you are lying. So Courtney King Dye, (do you even know who she is?) was thrown because she did not anticipate the actions of a young green horse? Hm. Let me see.. there is no such thing as a bomb proof horse. Period. And it is pompous to think that there is. There is always something that could spook a horse. Sorry, you have issues with my statements. I've been around horses for 45 years. Guess what? I've been thrown a couple of times, not always my fault, not always the horses fault. And I said nothing about requiring YOU to wear a helmet, I was speaking about the child. You're an angry young person, that's obvious by your use of vulgarities. If you truly think you will never be thrown from a horse for any reason, I really hope that you have some common sense and are wearing a helmet. Take a look at the FEI requirements for helmets? Do you even know what the FEI is? How about USDF? Or are you a hack that just trail ride? II have nothing against hacking, I do it myself, but always with a helmet on. I'm sorry you're so angry. Actually no I'm not, it's rather amusing. Why? Because at some point, if you're unlucky, which will happen, you will fall off a horse for any number of reasons. I am well aware of what good horsemanship is. I'm not a hack rider, I'm not some person that just gets on any random horse without checking it out first. I will always ride with a helmet because when it gets right down to it, horses are prey animals and therefore can and will react to many things that go on around them. Have a wonderful day! (notice that I can disagree and have a decent conversation without tell you to fuck off? That's below me. Oh obviously I'm beneath you as well, because you are the perfect rider)
I like the horse reaction: "I've got something on my back, what is it ?!!!" *frozen horse*. It seems he needed to look what's going on on his back before moving but you took his head first. It's just a little thing to make him more in confidence. But I think you have the right attitude with this horse, on this video.
Heavy horse breeds are too immature to be ridden at that age - their bones aren't strong and formed enough. Why was the colt sitting down? These people should not be training horses. My grandfather bred these horses and he was Champion Ploughman of Scotland several times. I spent many happy hours riding on the horses' backs as my grandfather ploughed, when I was a small child. This was in the 1950's. They are the most noble and beautiful creatures in the world.
nice work. shows the benefits of ground training. I'm impressed with the job you did. thanks for sharing this.
Although he is very docile, she should at the VERY least have a helmet on....
Helmet won't help if he throws her over the fence or she gets stood on by him. Nothing would help if you get stepped on.
GoldenLioness100 Yes but the body heals injuries much faster than a head injury; 40 yrs in horses....
Even with a helmet you will get a concussion no matter if your head does or doesn't get hit.
crimsonglamormoon lol wut
Sadie Baeumler Plain and simple; the jolt of falling can give you a concussion. Something a helmet doesn't protect against.
He is so patient. Beautiful horse!
It's indeed very dangerous if you wear no protection at all. If he decides "Had enough of this, off you go, silly biped" then you've got a concussion because you decided not to wear a helmet.
And if that was just a risk, then you could argue it wasn't worth complaining about, if you get injured, others have to put you back together again, and it does make people think helmets and other protection aren't needed while horse riding.
I've been riding, showing, breaking, and extreme trail riding for 30 years and I have never worn a helmet nor will I ever wear a helmet while riding! I' had horses throw me and I've had crashes on mountainsides and have never had the need for one! People are free to make their own decisions still and I can't understand why someone that knows so little about this topic thinks they can tell everyone else what to do! Try minding your business and I'm sure the riders will do the same!!!!!
Good groundwork! That’s what makes the first ride safe! Way to go!
I remember seeing those beautifull horses here in Dublin going through the streets when Guinness's use to use them
Very cool the horse seems very chilled for a baby I have to agree with the helmet comments though but it's your horse your choice looks fun!
how did you get him to sit? by the way your horse is beautiful.
Whoop brony /) I agree beautiful horse but you shouldn't ride him until he is alteast 3 and wear a helmet!
Agree, sometimes if you try to train a ride too early, you can ruin his career
Beautiful. He's a gorgeous colt and you did a wonderful job on his first ride.
Here we go helmet police do your worst :) LOL. Ok so here are my thoughts... 1. Do I use a helmet when I ride? Sometimes 2. Do I make beginner riders wear helmets? Always! 3. Do I think I should bitch and whine about what this lady did? No! Its her life and her responsibility. Do I want her to get hurt? No. Why does every one care so much to make it their damn business. MANY people ride without helmets should they have been wearing one? Probably. But its not my business as long as the horse and me are safe b/c the rider DECIDED TO PUT HER/HIS LIFE IN DANGER NOT MINE. Are your lives in danger through your computer screen? No. so stop complaining.
+Key's Future I think its due to the irony of the warning at the beginning and that they are suppose to be professionals breaking a horse in and uploading videos. When a person decides to put their life in danger its not just about themselves, if anything does happen they potentially can traumatize the horse, not to mention the people who will have to mop up their body and who also see the accident, their friends/family etc etc
Sure we have to take risks in life but taking ones where there is little logic or gain doesn't make sense to a lot of people.
It shows lack of professionalism and carelessness. Hats were not invented for no reason and other than looking pretty and not having a hot head what function does not wearing a hat serve?
It shows that you either do not care about yourself or believe that you are invincible.
I can even slightly understand riding a schoolmaster that you've known for years with no hat, but to attempt to break in a 2 year old, the first time hes ever been sat on is just bizarre.
Of course it is amazing how calm and relaxes Elvis reacts....and there is a lot of work done. But I just don't understand why someone would mount on a 2 years old horse. No matters what breed this horse is.....or how big/tall he is. Of course Elvis is as tall as a other horse, which ist maybe 6 years old and completly grown. But he isn't with 2 years and his body isn't ready to carry a human. Althoug he is already so big.
What a good horse! Such a sweetheart! Edit: this horse is much to young to be ridden.
I agree and disagree with everyone. A 2 year old being mounted is risky for the horse, some horses can lead to back problems, and I've seen some have growing problems. But starting light mounts at a young age (2 1/2 and up) can also be good for training your horse when it has reached the age that is good for riding. Also that horse is not "Unbroke" an unbroken horse would probably throw you off or freak out. I also agree in this situation a helmet would have been a good thing to wear. This is a very large horse and it is a long way down, if this horse is so "unbroken" why is there no helmet on the "professionals" head.
Love to read horse comments: so much stupidity..bad for his back! She's tiny !!…LOL. And bareback even lighter and more ideal.. How do you think the Indians broke wild horses?..had to wait for a European with a saddle?
David Reed he is too young and i doesn’t matter that she’s light. His bones aren’t even fully developed
yes david, i guess back in the day all the us old timers broke all the rules. our horses were broke at two and there were no such thing as helmets. btw indians broke horses in water lots of the time.
What a good, GORGEOUS, big boy! He's obviously loved and very confident in himself and his handlers.
Wonderful!! Well done!! He is so pretty!
Actually, I agree with you. As I said before, only light work with a 2yo is good. I never said these horses are worked every day. Their rides are spread out throughout the weeks. One of the fillies I know is very good with the basics of riding and is comfortable doing it. She gets LOTS of breaks and her owner knows that she shouldn't be pushed. I also said starting at 3 is a better idea but starting at 2 won't ruin the horse if they're trained properly. Reread the comment you replied to.
2 years old? He's a child with 2 years! It's to early to sit on him!!! that's abuse! Shame on you! Poor horse...
U ARE TOTALLY WRONG. That horse is 2 years old! Old enough for u to ride him. I have a horse and she is 1 and I can ride her -_- in horse years it's young, but it's sorta like a teenager. Learn ur horse facts
StarStable Connie
U Are wrong! with one year it's a BABY! I know very much about horses and their training. I trained a lot of young horses. But riding only with three... or later. otherwise it's abuse... the bones and so on where not strong enough in this age! YOU have to learn the facts!
StarStable Connie BULLSHIT !!!!
StarStable Connie
Are you really serious on that?
Shari Maggie
Don't tell her, but StarStables horses are plastic... Plastic horses can be ridden ANYtime ;)
its okay, many horses are starting the breaking process at two years old, it doesn't cause any back problems on a Clydesdale horse. this is because in the breaking of a horse you are not riding it all the time, it is the process of simply introducing weight to your horse. It is generally more done off the ground anyways until they are around three and their spine has fully developed. thank you if you read all of that and no i did not mean it in a way to intentionally hurt you. Thank you again :)
Here, I can point out a helmet is not required. Seeming as this Clydesdale was very patient, and what I call WELL-TRAINED. Secondly, not all horses are to be riding/ridden at 4+. Some horses can be ridden at younger ages. 1 however, is not a required age. 2 Is a real age for a Clydesdale I believe. They took this in slow steps to not frighten it, didn't they? YES. So, what are you guys fussing about? :)!
Hey, I don't have a problem with the video at all, I actually thought it was awesome! But I just wanted to point out that draft horses like clydesdales mature slower than the lighter breeds, so if you really wanted to break them at "the right age" it would be much later than 2. But most horses are started too young so, what can you do. For real riding, probably more like 5 years old for a draft. Ground work is anther matter, that can be earlier.
actually it doesn't matter what breed they are, the growth plates don't close together till the horse is about 3 rising 4 that is why you are meant to wait as long as pos before putting any pressure on their young frame. Its the lack of knowledge and education why ppl work horses too young eg. 1 and 2 yr olds,ppl take advantage of the breeds gentile nature, and their willingness to please.
Basing helmet usage on a train/non trained horse is ridiculous. Even the most well trained horses can spook and that will be it for you. Promoting not wearing a helmet will get some people killed. Nice job.
What marvelous, extraordinary and beautiful animals.
My only comment is Helmets! Horses are unpredictable animals and a helmet could save your life. I know, they know this animal but everyone I know who has taken a serious fall has known there animal far longer than they have known this one. As someone representing your company you need to set an example for kids watching and learning. Helmets are cheap, light and can save your life. Rant done!
I have ridden almost every day since I was 6 helping run a cattle I now run barrels and team rope. Yes I have been thrown off a number of times cracked and broken ribs, mostly, I have found it usually doesn't make any difference its all about chance and knowing your horse. Some of my horses some of them iv known for 14 years and trust them completely. I have been thrown and kicked in the head dumped in rivers on multiple occasions but still would not wear a helmet by choice.
Horses are acctually very predictable, far more predictable then humans.
S. Thomas In the late thirties we visited some kin in Ohio who had two of this kind of horse. My cousin and I were about nine years old. We took the horses out in a lot and my cousin got on the back of the younger unbroken horse. Everything looked good but then the horse ran at full speed to the barn and entered the barn through a doorway. My cousin ducked in time to keep his head from being bashed in.
Pony.vlog horses are most definitely not predictable at all. i have a 5 year old that will without warning, bronc like a lunatic.
Although this was unsafe for her not wearing a helmet. Riding bareback, if you do it properly, will give you a better feel for how he is reacting and you also can get a better grip if you use your thighs correctly than if you were in a saddle. This really does demonstrate the beauty of giving a horse the proper training and the bond a horse and trainer can develop through the journey. Also I don't agree with starting a horse at 2 but every person is entitled to their own opinion so don't be rude
The horse has his own bean bag chair. lol
very nice! yeah I'm gonna buy one as soon as I can afford one and i have enough space to let them be horse like they should be:) my 2 haflingers will stay no mather but one of those heavy's would be so awesome! very cool that your horse does well at competitions! i have a lot of problems with the jury because they don't like seeing Haflingers, they prefer normal horses.. I love your way of dealing with them! good that there are still people like you, they are getting rare..
Did Elvis get a peanut butter and banana sandwich for being such a mellow dude?
Best comment I've seen on this thread.
Okay, reading all these comments makes me want to throw in my own opinion. Now I am only 12 years old, but I have literally grown up with horses. My famly owns a Guest Ranch, and have about 45 head of horses; all of these horses are either unbroke, western, or driving horses. They were not started at such young age, but all are healthy. I live in Alberta, Canada, which, as most of you probably know, is cattle country. Most people here ride western, meaning we wear cowboy hats instead of helmets. If you ask an old rancher why he never wore a helmet, his reply would most likely be, "My cowboy hat was the best helmet I've ever worn.". This is because we take the time to know our horses. We trust them with our lives. Now I am not trying to over power English riders; I respect all of you and would never be able to ride in such a saddle as you do. But my point is, Clydesdales are used for western or driving more than english. Now this woman not wearing a helmet was definitely not a smart move, and I am questioning wether or not she is a true professional, but she was not alone; she had at least two other people with her, and her horse didn't react from pain, or nervousness while she was upon his back. Yes, I understand he is not mature yet, as my family raises draft horses. But it is okay to ride a young horse for a small amount of time maybe once a week. I know this because I have a 3 year old colt, named Red Lodge Survivior, or Sur for short, he was orphaned at two weeks old, as his mother had to be put down for retaining placenta, which is a death sentence for horses. We raised him by feeding him milk from a bucket, and he became more of a dog than a horse, we rode him around his pasture occasionally, for a short amount of time, and he is still as healthy as can be. So this video does not deserve all this hate it is receiving. Now I disagree with some of the details in this vidoe as well, but they probably had this planned out carefully, and it ended well, did it not? Anywho, have a very nice day eeryone! :)
he is way to young to be riden, wait atleast untill he is 3+, why this hurry? ive trained horse for more than 35 years now and no horse no matter race is ready to be ridden as 2 year old. So let him be a young horse and give him time.
Michaela
Listen, person. I get the fact that you've been training horses almost as much as my mom has been alive, but this helps his mind work, like a brain work out. And as far as I know, the woman was only on him for like probably just about maybe three minutes. I've started my family's fillies and colts with just putting some weight on their backs so that they can get used to it, then after my mom deems them well enough, as well as our vets, we put them into training. Not like the human equivalent of being a Navy SEAL, but small workouts that last like 10 minutes and challenge their brain. Then after they get older we bump up the length and skill of our training, by like 15 minutes. So just chill the eff out. If you don't like, go away, even though I sound super hypocritical.
You train Clydesdales, Shires and Percherons do you?
Juniper Clarins
No, but lighten up on the woman. Haven't you risen a young horse to get them use to a person on their back? Or something of the sort? All I can tell is that she rode him for maybe like 5 minutes or less, just stop judging her. If the horse ends up a bit wrong in the spine, she's learned to not do that again.
Michaela Enemark I have a question based on what you mentioned regarding riding age, bear in mind I know zip about horses, but love them....aren't race horses, like at Kentucky Derby, 2 year olds? I know the horses are much smaller than this beauty, as well as jockeys having a weight limit, is that what makes a difference, or are those horses in trouble as they age? Thanks
Sherri Moore
Yes, racehorses can be and are often raced at two, and it is really detrimental to their health. No horse should have to carry a rider at two, especially at a full gallop
I didn’t know you could do it, maybe you could teach me sometime.
Maybe you can get me on his back.
Why would you sit on an unbroken horse Big OR Small without a helmet? Just because it might not save your head if he STEPS on it, I am pretty dang sure it would save your head if he rolled on top of it with his body. Dumb parents I swear... then we are made to feel sad when people die due to them thinking they can outsmart safety. Yes, you are big and bad you haven't gotten hurt yet, so lets wait and when you DO get hurt, you will finally wear a helmet. You know... sometimes the first can be your last. Be a little more smart than that. Fyi how would a helmet hurt you? 9 times out of 10 it would help. Not wearing one due to the slim possibility of it failing, is asking for death.
Ya exactly why would somebody do that especially if she doesn't have a helmet on another thing that I'm really p.o.'d about they put a warning sign before the video I think peoplehave ridden a horse before
Lol ah well... these are the people you hear about that get hurt always the "professionals."
Helmets are fine if you are riding a race because they are required. Otherwise, forget it. I've lived over 60 years and never been injured by the lack of a helmet.
I'm going to have to agree with the helmet issue. I've taken some very hard falls (I broke my back falling off my QH!!!) and if it weren't for a helmet, I probably would have had worse injuries. I know tons of people that don't wear them and have never gotten hurt, but I also know a lady that cracked her skull and was in a coma from falling on a simple trail ride without a helmet. She lost her senses of taste and smell, suffered memory loss and even had personality changes. Yes, that was sorta a worst case scenario, but I also know people that have had concussions, been kicked in the head (after falling), etc.
Lee Alexander I've never crashed a car, but I still wear a seatbelt. I've never been run over, but I still look both ways when crossing the street. You shouldn't need to suffer an accident before learning the lesson, because it's designed to save your life *before* an incident like that happens.
he was like "i don't want to get up i'm comfy"
I don 't know what all the fuss is about. That colt has never been abused in his life. As for helmets, they can be a useful tool, but as all horse people know you can take all the precautions in the world, and still get hurt with the gentlest of giants. To wear or not wear a helmet is a personal choice just as playing with a 1000+lb animal is a personal choice. Bashing is not nice. Cute video, sweet colt.
The fuss is, that horse is too young to 've ridden yet, it's like riding a child!
I hope you get to own a Clydesdale one day. Wish you were in the UK, I would have let you ride my beloved 'Patrick'. When you are older, come over to the UK to a place called Hurst Green Shires. It is Heavy Horse Heaven and you would love it XX
Way too young bigger breeds take a lot longer to mature!
You are 100% correct Brianna.I have two beautiful Clydesdales and these babies should not be backed to ride until they are at least 3 and we don't train them for carriage work until they are 5! Big does not mean ADULT. You keep posting your replies.I take my hat off to you and keep up your good work. My two Clydesdales are also thankful to you for highlighting idiots like the ones in the video. Just because they call themselves animal trainer does not mean they know what they are doing!
Ok people you are being ridiculous. It is NOT going to irreparably harm this horse to have a person sit on him at the age of 2. They didnt do anything strenuous or difficult. It was more of an exercise for his mind than anything else. The horse is going to be just fine
i agree it wont hurt him to have a rider at 2 i mean look at race horses they have riders on them at age 1 in training
Chloe Ponyblanket we had an OTTB who had only two races…he was only 10 when we got him and had extensive arthritis from early, hard training. don't use the race industry as an example of how to treat horses…unless you mean a bad example
I have to agree that the racing industry is not a good example of safe backing at a young age. The horses are worked hard before they are ready. however, this horse is not being ridden or exercised, he is only getting used to the idea of a person on his back. That will not harm him, galloping him around everyday will.
Chloe Ponyblanket just cos the race horses are riden at 1 does not make it right, the only reason they are ridden at such an early age is because of MONEY and nothing else
Trena H the trick training is not always good for a young horse and his growing, to ensure longevity one should let the young body finish growing before asking it to do anything that involves undue pressure.
Love the way you must have trained this great looking horse by massage and touch to the point where it is not sure if it is getting touched or there is someone on his body, ;-) Very well done, this is the first time I have seen this horse and you I think, unless you are the girl who owns then pretty little pony with the white mane? Is there more videos of this training and what happened up until now?
Take care
mrbluenun
2 years? a horses bones are still growing at such a young age! yeah he is big and has strong muscles but to early training could damage his bones permanently. typical. people want the horse be trained fast so they can profit from it asap. thats how so many end up abused and scared. like the horse my friend adopted after he broke his nose, dislocated his shoulder and injured his back from early training and fast ways of getting horse used to plastic bags. u want a healthy horse? u need patience and invest into training as long as the horse need it.
A real testimony to gentle training and as horse who has had no fear in his life. Good job
isnt two years a little bit too early??
Yes. Most horses are started at the age of 3. I have been told by people that own heavy horses that they are slow to mature as well.
Nicole Joseph yes
Wow Lindsay and I have not been together in over three years. I was showing some videos of my Florida days to friends and saw over 800,000 views. Just to clarify Elvis was a trick horse. What we did that day was a one time stunt, and was never performed again. For all of you who thought this was cruel well you have a right to your opinion as I have a right to mine. The whip was an extension of my arm and Elvis understood whip cues very well as we did extensive liberty training with him. He was not a personal horse this was a paying job for us and as an ongoing client it was always nice to show them something new. This video was not intended to be anything more than what it was some thing to create a buzz something to show people who we were. 800,000 views equals mission accomplished. Now love on lovers and hate on haters.
Nate's Wanderings Its about the application of the whip, in this case, just a touch, a stroke, as you would with your hand if your arm was that long! Most effective to just put a bit of pressure, they instinctively move away from it, being herd animals. Slight pressure is all that is needed. Whips are not to be used for 'whipping', in spite of the name.
THIS HORSE IS FAR TO YOUNG TO SIT ON IT!
Jong?
sorry im dutch. i meen young or something
+Delaila Breedijk Sometimes horse owners might desensitize a young horse to a rider or saddle YEARS before breaking
+Delaila Breedijk 2 years old is a good age to start riding.
+Dejiax Okami You really shouldn't actually ride a horse until it's about 4 years old, but it is okay to start breaking at around 3
Ahaha, that's awesome! I usually start mine with a saddle, but you've given me inspiration to be creative... ;)
It disturbes me that you are riding a two year old,the horse can get permanent damage in its bones and spine just because it is too young
+LinneasDream you usually start ridin when they turn 2.. what are you talking about ?
+Jasmine Gradington it is a Heavy horse,it takes longer time for their boned,I wasnt clear sorry because warmbloods are in Races in that age but their not heavy
Lol I was like. Why are all these people sayin that you can't ride at 2.. Because IV been breaking my own horses. And I don't necessarily start riding then at 2 but I do put a saddle on em when they are 2.. But alot of people do ride . right after they turn 2. What's really bad is of they arnt 2 yet. .
+LinneasDream ikr, the spine is like popping out, but its nothing compared to mine (not actually mine, but from the stables), his withers are popping SO much, from all the riding
Noella Newland Wheres the Withers?,I dont know because Im swedish so sorry
The Plains Indians obtained their horses from the Spanish ranches in new Mexico, first established by the Spanish explorer Juan de Oñate in 1598. By 1750 the horse had spread north to all the Plains tribes, including the Blackfoot in Alberta, Canada.
I swear you idiots that keep saying that this is abuse because this horse is only 2 are dumb... YES riding a normal 2 year old is wrong BUT that is a REALLY big 2 year old and the woman sitting on his back and being led around the ring once probably weights nothing to him!! It would basically be like a 5 year old carrying their first backpack to kindergarten that only has crayons in it!! lol I am sure this big boned draft horse can handle that without breaking down... This is not abuse!
The draft breeds take longer to physically mature than other horses so it would be more like riding a yearling.
Erin Tubb He's not being worked though. He's simply being led around at a walk. He probably puts more stress on his joints just running around a turn out. I agree that horses, especially drafts, should be given plenty of time to mature before being "started" but this can hardly be called work for this horse.
***** I think the point Casey was trying to make was in reference to the impact *this* ride is having on this horse, which, as you already stated, is "most likely not going to cause any damage." For heaven's sake, there's not even a bit in his mouth, she just has a rope around his neck. I say bravo to these people for taking baby steps with this boy, so when it comes time to really start him it will be much easier for everyone.
Until a horse one average, is four years of age (age varies from breed) their spinal vertebrae relocate themselves, therefore riding a horse at the age of two is wrong. Youre correct in saying just this will not damage the horse in any way. But continuous riding/weight bearing will leave the horse with long term damage. Just because he is a big horse makes no difference at all. His spine is still developing and will not have finished developing until he is 4-6 years of age.
I'm not at all trying to be argumentative in any way by the way. I was just sharing my knowledge with you. :)
I dont think the whip/stick is abusive at all, its used as a tool for helping the horse out. I would much rather prefer a little help from behind than slamming your heels into it's sides. I do think she should be wearing atleast a helmet :)
WOW!! LOOK AT all the negative comments..geesh..you would think most people live in a world where everything is wrapped with bubble wrap. Ease up people. He is a clydesdale!!! She isnt going to hurt him at all. lol. Horses are broke at the age of 2years old everywhere. Get a grip!!!
Not everywhere.. I think 2 yr olds are too young to be started.
They're not physically mature yet and their bones are not fully developed or fully capable of supporting both their weight and the riders, even as a big and muscular breed it's too young. At two years old they still have a lot of growing to do, mentally as well as physically.
Personally I would wait until they're at least 3 or even 4. But yeah he's a clydesdale and is a strong horse, and he accepted her very nicely
Aya Louise Yes they are....western pleasure 2yo futurity horses are broke out and have 30 days on them when they go to shows. And so are most horses. They are riden for approx 15 min per session 2-3 times a week. that isnt going ot hurt them with a rider that weighs less than 150 lbs. This gal didnt ride the horse for very long..didnt hurt him at all.
Well that's your opinion.. 15 min is still pretty long even if the rider is less than 70 kg (We don't use lbs here so.. ^^ ) But in my country western riding is not that popular.. even though it look really cool with the pretty little sparkly shirts and fancy boots with spurs.. Lol.. Even if it was popular it's just commonly known that you shouldn't start a horse before it reaches 3 yrs of age. That same 'rule' is told on every equestrian facility i've ever visited.
Aya Louise That's your opinion.
Dee Taylor Yes.. Yes It is.
This is why I want a clydesdale! They really are gentle giants
Why would people even try to do these things without a helmet? Its just so stupid, I wouldn't ride a 20yo bombproof schoolmaster without a helmet let alone a 2yo unbroken Clydie
+Camerin Andaloro - I grew up riding and training horses in Texas. I've never worn a helmet although I don't have anything against those that do. People have ridden horses for thousands of years without helmets. However, on a green unbroken horse... I'd consider it now that I'm old. I'm glad that you are a cautious rider however it is unfair to call others stupid who choose not to ride with one. Would you call anyone that participates in extreme sports, smokes, rides motorcycles helmetless, or drives in LA traffic stupid? ... I might. .
STOP BEING A HELMET POLICE. It isn't your choice for the person to wear a helmet! It is there opinion, you won't die from not wearing a helmet. Now go away and stop saying "WEAR A HELMET WAAAAA WAAA WAAAA"
I think Camerin is selling helmets lol
Beautiful horse, and amazing video
So this is coming from someone who's never broke a horse or seen one broke in real life before... But shouldn't they be about 3-4? I mean even if it's not a skinny thing you should still be careful right..? Or am I completely wrong here... I have no clue.. Maybe this horse is fine with it. Idk...
It's okay because he's a Clydesdale. Most breeds you need to wait though.
Why should it be okay because he's a Clydesdale? They are Draft horses, even less made for carrying riders on their back than other breeds. Honestly, I don't think his breed is an excuse for riding him this young. He probably didn't get harmed in this video, but I wouldn't do this with a young horse of any age more often.
Well considering I've been around horses since forever.. I know Clydesdales and bigger horses take a lot longer than smaller breeds to mature especially in bones and spines, so just giving me his breed isn't answering my question but thanks.
i agree i dont know much about breaking in but peolpe are overreacting and she knows what shes doing.. i hope
A cold blood horse like this I think they grow and mature slow, so wait until he is five until riding him in.
Whoever did this is such an amazing person!
Why do people nag about helmets it's their choice not yours so u should stop nagging them
Emily Duke
Emily Duke
+Emily Duke Because it sets a bad example? Because its dangerous? Because someone else will have to mop up your head if anything should happen just because you didn't want to put a hat on it.
For Pete's sake haters, they didn't take him on a trail ride or do anything more than advance him to a new stage. I bet the girl wasn't on him more than a few minutes. I think these people were very considerate of the horse and I believe they are doing a good job. It was a very calm and kind situation. The horse was calm and comfortable and it's obvious he trusts his owners. Also, when you have a good valuable animal you are careful and considerate of it's upbringing and physical well-being.
why in the hell is she riding without a helmet?!
He seems like a total sweetheart
if you want to destroy his bones go on.....
He isn't even fully grown out in this age...
Thank God we have a sensible person ! Totally agree with your comments. I have worked with genuine Heavy Horses (drafts) -i.e. Clydesdales, Shires and Percherons for over 40 years. These people have no idea the damage they are doing-this horse is still a baby. Heavy horses have the nicest temperaments and will do virtually anything asked of them. This horse's behaviour is typical of a heavy and nothing to do with groundwork training - if you haven't been around heavies take note! Sheer madness
Mind Your Melon! Wear a helmet.
Boom :)
thank you! *****
Look, this is showing an incredible amount of trust, not stupidity. I don't ride with helmets and I'm a trainer working with draft horses. I'm still alive. 2 year old horses are worked with all the time, as long as they're not pushed too hard they're fine. Yes, it does matter what size and breed the horse is, if it were a miniature pony it would be terribly inappropriate to be doing anything but ground work, but this is a CLYDESDALE. And she barely rode it. Have you ever trained a horse?
No helmet?
+indigoXrainne I doubt she would be against common sense questions about safety; especially with posting on the internet.
Also it states she is a professional which is in every way untrue because she is not wearing a hat
Well said :)
Yeah, it;s possible to ride a horse that you know well without a helmet, in a narrow space like that one is, if she knows how to dismount and has ridden before. It's called "every trainer did it" (i guarantee there are little trainers who can say otherwise :) ) and "experience". Also calmness, and knowing the equine behavior.
Karen Lm You know you can break your neck wearing a helmet
I dont understand the hate comments. This horse is going to be great for riding. Myb im not a pro, i ride for 2 years now and i dont see anything bad in using a whip while you ride or while you are lunging your horse or so. It doesnt really hurt the horse, its just there so he could know he needs to listen. A whip is not a horse abuse. An average rider needs to have one..
Before riding a horse it should EVER be outgrown. If not they back could deform and you can probably only ride them a few years. Clydesdale and other big horses need like 4 years to develope strong bones and if you ride them in this young age,even if you don't brake them mentally, you will probably destroy its health.
i dont use a whip anymore since my horse got used to it so he wont listen with a whip
It's a draft horse not a tissue paper that 120 pound woman for 10 minutes is not going to hurt him
+Dave Biewer Well it is, all you need is one time and something can go wrong. Besides his character may change as well now... This can be nothing else than wrong! Maybe this won't hurt him, but that doesn't make it right, you need to wait until the horse is at least 3 years...
Femke shut your mouth
Go eat a doughnut u pig
Been doing this for decades and never met a vet who said that racing is wrong for Tb or other racing breeds. These horses are cared for MUCH more than average horses or even show horses. The level of care is astonishing and expensive. The owner is not who the vet works with; it is the trainer. Again you show that you don't know what goes on at a professional racing stable. It is the trainer's JOB to make darn sure that horse is healthy and sound, or the race goes down the tube!
Too young for that.