THE HARNESS SHOULD BE CAREFULLY FITTED. 47 



See that the bridle fits well, that the cheek-pieces are 

 long enough to let the bit rest naturally and easily in the 

 mouth ; that the throat-latch is not so tight that when the 

 head is pulled up it does not press against the throat. 

 Let every part fit easily and naturally. Buckling too tight 

 anywhere not only annoys, but obstructs the circulation. 

 Drive on a walk, or moderate trot, at first. Be careful 

 about backing. If }ou get too much back, there is danger 

 of the colt learning, when confused, to run back or come 

 back too freely. This must not on any condition be 

 encouraged or permitted. 



You should be careful about driving so much as to cause 

 fatigue ; neither should the colt be required to draw heavy 

 loads until he is hardened, and has learned to use his 

 strength. If he shows action, and you wish to teach him 

 to trot, go slow. 



After learning to walk well, let him trot a little, gradually 

 letting him out faster and a little farther, as smooth pieces 

 of road give opportunity ; restrict these little outbursts 

 of speed at first to the limits of a few rods. Let him 

 dash out a short distance, then gradually slacken to a 

 walk, speaking kindly and encouragingly. After a while, 

 let him out again, pushing, perhaps, a little faster and 

 farther, being careful not to crowd to breaking. It must 

 not be expected because your colt is perhaps a good 

 mover, that he will be &fast trotter. But if he does show 

 a loose open gait, do not by any means spoil him by 

 attempting too much at first. There is usually too much 

 anxiety to try a colt's speed and bottom ; and he is often 

 pushed, overdone, and spoiled perhaps, before his powers 

 are half developed. 



A colt must not be crowded too much at the start. He 

 cannot be expected to drive like an old horse, without 

 experience and practice. He must grow into the position, 

 as it were ; and a reasonable patience and effort is neces- 

 sary to insure this. The great trouble with most people, 

 in training colts, is, they attempt too much ; and doing too 

 much now is liable to spoil all. 



