How do you saddle train an Arabian horse?

Question

I am buying a 5 year old Arabian gelding and was wondering what the best way to saddle break him would be? Are Arabians different to train than other breeds, for example Quarter horses? Thnks! =]

Answer 1

I've trained a number of Arabs.  5 is not too old, he is probably physically mature and his mind is settled.  I would recommend having a professional trainer do the initial 'get on and ride' work.  Arabs cannot be forced into doing things--they either get REALLY stubborn or REALLY flighty.  So, slow is good.  Make sure that you have a definite goal for each lesson so that you aren't confused and your horse doesn't get confused.

Answer 2

A horse is a horse of course, of course. It's no different. Although, if this horse is just now getting saddle broke and he's 5...you're in for some hard work. Good luck!

Answer 3

Assuming you have started horses before, a horse is a horse.  How much ground training has this 5 year old horse had? Whatever he's been doing for 5 years is all training whether it's good or bad so he may be more of an un-training project.Arabians are smarter and learn faster than other breeds, and you have to be sharp to stay ahead of them. They bond intensely with humans which makes them delightful, but they are more sensitive to your mistakes. Many people malign Arabians for the very qualities that make them outstanding...most of those people are not up to the task of dealing with a highly intelligent and sensitive breed and prefer a less challenging type. Just be way more on your toes and expect your mistakes, no matter how small, to be taken advantage of.

Answer 4

If you've never started a horse before, I'd highly recommend you get a trainer to help you.   If it goes badly you could get hurt or he could develop some really bad habits.  

It will be similar to training other breeds (especially other "hot" breeds).  You do want a trainer who likes & understands Arabians

Answer 5

Horses all think similarly. However hotter breeds have completely different tendencies than say quarter horses. My mom trains hers differently than any way I see on the hunter jumper circuits, but in this natural horsemanship program (called Parelli) they describe four different "horsanalities". So while other horses may have been left-brained extroverts, this five year old arabian may be a right-brain introvert.