How to Train a Miniature Horse Foal

Miniature horses might be tiny and adorable, but they need training and socialization just as much as their larger counterparts. Despite their diminutive size, miniature horses are quite strong and even a young foal can quickly become a handful if it is not trained properly from the start. Taking the time to work with your miniature horse foal just a few minutes a day can pay big benefits down the line.

Things You'll Need

  • Miniature horse halter
  • Lead rope
  • Hoof pick
  • Brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a properly sized halter for your miniature horse foal. You can find special halters sized for miniature horses at tack shops, feed mills and on the Internet.

    • 2

      Visit with the foal as soon as possible after it is born. Keep a close eye on the mare and gauge her reaction. If the mare is very protective or threatening, you might need to wait a few weeks before you can safely start working with the foal. As with any foal, the sooner you start working with the miniature horse foal the better.

    • 3

      Rub, pet and brush the foal for a few minutes a day to get it used to the presence of people in its stall and pasture. Visit with mom and baby out in the pasture and in the stall, taking the time to brush and pet both the mare and the foal.

    • 4

      Place the halter on the foal and allow it to wear the halter while in the stall. Remain nearby while the foal has the halter on in case it panics or tries to pull the halter off with its foot.

    • 5

      Attach a long lead rope to the halter and allow the foal to move around the stall. An 8- to 10-foot lead rope provides plenty of freedom of movement and allows the foal to get used to wearing both the halter and the rope.

    • 6

      Pull gently on the rope and urge the foal to move toward you. Do not be surprised if the foal braces against the rope or tries to pull the first couple times. After awhile the foal will get the idea and begin to move in the direction you indicate.

    • 7

      Pick each of the miniature horse foal's feet up, moving one foot at a time. Press slightly on the foal's shoulder to shift its weight if it does not pick the foot up right away. Hold the foot up for a few seconds at first, then for longer periods, until you can check the foal's hoof and clean it with a hoof pick.