Bad boy Percheron. Need training?!!

Hi, also new!

Have a 7 yr old Percheron gelding that was sold to me and my DH for a mere 2,500. (down from 20,000) because of a flap problem, and the fact that he hasn't been hacked out on a trail or jumps in the open.

My DH loved him, and was told (after we bought) that if we beat him on left side, ACE'd him before riding, and rode everyday he should come around.

(ok, I know we were taken - right?)

This person also had me keep their other horse, who bit "Winston" and pushed him around each day, and was told that will help his adjustment. It didn't, and I don't agree another horse abusing another horse is the answer.

(We asked the owner to pick up her horse).


But now, I am trying to work with him in a natural way, grooming each day, walking up to him showing him I am in charge, he still acts like a boyish child, and I am concerned that my DH shouldn't ride this boy. He did a week ago, but after we ACE'd him, (also told to do by this friend = 1cc).

I know ACE'ing is not the answer to a problem. It just makes him drunkish, and kind of goofy, but still powered in "High".

Thoughts? Advice? I am trying to talk DH into getting himself a great trainer and working together on this project.

I have and ride a retired Police mounted unit horse that is simply a docile, dear. So hark! Things are good!

Thanks so much for any advice.

Find a really good trainer that has experience training drafts.

WHo can also teach you and DH. PLease do not ride an AcE'd horse. EVER. GOd forbid he falls on you.

I agree - a good trainer who is experienced with drafts, not just Joe Blow down the road who rides light horses. Drafts have dirfferent tweeks in how they best learn things.

I always found Joe Blow to be every reliable & helpful in most situations.

I once had a Spotted DraftX. I raised him & it had it's challenges but well worth it. I am not sure where you are located but I would love to come and see him and try to help you out. Yes I am a trainer but I do not know it all. I don't beleive in drugs so you can ride your horse. Their is a problem and you need to find it so you can work thru it.

I have worked with other drafts and they are just so kind hearted. If interested I am at www.wolfmountainequestriancenter.com

God Bless & have a great day!!

"...that if we beat him on left side, ACE'd him before riding, and rode everyday he should come around." -- Without being rude, does this seem harsh to you as well?

The proper foundation for a horse and rider relationship is mutual trust, respect and compliance (of the horse). As new owners, you have to recognize this geldings strengths and weaknesses. I have an Appaloosa filly who is often picked on by the rest of the herd. It does nothing but break their beautiful spirit. To be a reliable horse for you and DH, how can he live up to useful standards if he's being bullied and drugged? Do you have any other horses? If not, get a dehorned goat for a pasture buddy. They use them for racing TB's.

My heart goes out to your gelding... How can he be given a fair chance under those circumstances? Give him time -- make EVERY experience he has with you and DH a good one! Also, how "broke" is he? Take it for what it is -- you were heavily rooked. $2,500 for a gelding that is even semi-problematic is absurd. My dad bought an 11 y/o ex-cattle horse for $2,300 and that horse is amazing. (He's quiet, obedient and sensitive to seat cues!)

What kind of experience does this gelding have? How many miles? What is his day-to-day temperament like? Could he have underlying health issues? (ie, Heaves, pinched nerve in back, split hoof, etc.) When he is NOT drugged for a period of time, what is he like? Sweet and gentle or hell on hooves? Is he something that you and DH can handle? If not, either do your research better for next time (and arrange a vet check/visitation in advance) or send him off to a trainer who has the experience (and references) to acutely deal with his "issues" -- whatever they may be.

Good luck. :)

Agreed. Mine has this insatiable love for food. ;) LOL!

Is your name refering to Longmeadow in K.C. MO?