09/17/2026
Here’s an example of early driving a horse. This is Deacon in his young training days. I’ve found if the horse understands a roundpen routine, and then lunges decently, then driving is a logical next step. Of course, it would already be wearing the saddle and had some bitting exercises done. Driving can progress as far as you want to take it, from the round pen to the pasture. Honestly, I don’t drive every horse I train. It depends on the individual, it’s understanding, maturity and if the added work/time would benefit. I tend to only drive a few days to make sure they understand turning and stopping well, then move on from there- typically getting on and riding. When the weather cools a bit I’ll start driving Ruthy. At her young age and still immature body and mind, driving will be a way to train her without me being on her back. But then, I’ll do plenty of things if the weather would just cool a little!
