Ken McNabb: Colt Starting (Part 3 of 7) - Establishing Relationship

In Parts 3-7 of this colt-starting series, I'll be working with a 3-year-old who has been previously handled. In this session, we are working on round pen basics: establishing leadership, getting the horse locked on to me, getting the horse to follow me, and beginning to sack him out to my hands.

ROUND PEN BASICS

STEP 1: Establish authority and start developing a relationship by moving the horse's feet.
STEP 2: Begin asking him to change directions by stepping in front of the drive line. At this point, I am not concerned about whether he turns toward or away from me to change directions.
STEP 3: Start asking for inside turns by walking away and in front slightly. If he starts to turn away, drive him forward.
STEP 4: When inside turns get consistent, start asking the horse to stop and face you by backing away and drawing the horse to you.
STEP 5: Begin approaching the horse. As soon as you see his nostrils flare and his head turning away, turn the other direction away from him. When you are able to pull his front to you, completely turn your back on him to give a full release. If the horse will not bring his eyes to you, give him about 3 seconds to change his mind, and if he doesn't, send him off.
STEP 6: Start sacking the horse out with your hands. I like to touch all the places that my tack would touch.

These are some basic steps to help you and your horse start developing a relationship based on trust and leadership. Remember to take the time it takes and have fun!

Until next time, may God bless the trails you ride,

-Ken McNabb