eight going on three...

[partlycloudy]

For all you trainers out there...is it really much different starting an older horse?
I have an eight year old tb/qh gelding that has been reasonably well handled, has always been well cared for,leads,stands to be groomed, lunges sort of well and just has not been backed.
All things being equal, do you believe he will be harder to start than a three or four yr old?
So far he is doing well....just wondering about other's experiences with an older 'baby'

[bort84]

Mmm, he probably will be harder to start, but maybe you'll get lucky and he won't be = ) It's a very good thing that he's had a decent amount of handling, so he may very well take the work in stride. But some older horses seem to be a little more set in their ways than the youngsters, so you may run into some stubborn spots when he thinks he shouldn't have to be doing real work. Most young horses feel that way in the beginning, but an older horse may just be a bit less malleable as you go and require additional patience on your part, haha.

In general, you start them the same and your standard techniques should apply. But you may have to be a little bit more patient as you go, and some steps may take a little longer than you're used to. It honestly really depends on the horse. Just be flexible and realize that you may have to sometimes think outside of the box with him. Consistency is key, as always, and a firm yet sympathetic hand. And because he's all grown up, once he's fit, you won't have to be worried about young bones and joints.

Or, you may get lucky, and he'll take to the work like a fish to water, and be going to his first show in a matter of weeks, haha = ) Those kinds are out there!

[partlycloudy]

Maybe I will be lucky....so far, he has accepted the saddle and bridle, and has begun lunging with the sidereins (although very loose yet). He trots over the trot poles like an old pro.
Keeping my fingers crossed.