122 Training the Trotter, Coacher and Roadster 



The shoeing of each colt requires special attention. 

 While much has been written on shoeing and weight- 

 ing to improve action, experienced horsemen state 

 that each colt is an experiment and that no rule can 

 be made that will apply to all. To be successful, 

 therefore, one must make a careful study of the 



needs of each individual. If 

 toe-weights improve the ac- 

 tion, apply them; if not, dis- 

 regard their use (Fig. 28). 

 It is often necessary to shoe 

 behind very early in order to 

 boot properly. In such cases 

 a very light shoe or plate 

 should be used. Much care 

 must be exercised in fitting 

 the shoe, for should the colt 

 strike or interfere, he will not 

 extend himself, thus limiting or interfering with his 

 action (p. 139). 



Another individual peculiarity is the amount of 

 work the colt can stand. Some can endure twice the 

 work of others, so that it requires constant vigilance 

 not to overwork. When the colt is going nicely the 

 tendency is to drive him another brush, which is 

 continued until he is fatigued. This should not be 

 done. Never continue the exercise beyond the 

 point where the colt can improve with the next step. 

 The tired colt loses control of his legs and feet ; his 



Fig. 28. — One type of toe- 

 weight. 



