230 BREAKING AND TRAINING OF COLTS. 



colt to wear the bitting gear too long at one time, as by so 

 doing it has a tendency to sour his disposition. Keep him in 

 the gear just long enough each time to give him to understand 

 that he cannot get clear of it and that he must give up to it ; 

 and do not take it off while he is struggling to free himself 

 from it, but let him fight it out and get quiet first. Always 

 take it off when quiet, otherwise he may think the removal has 

 been caused by his exertions to get rid of it. 



"When he has become somewhat accustomed to the bit and 

 has given up fighting it, start him up a little ; always use the 

 same expression, as "go on," "get up," or whatever term you 

 choose to use for starting him. Practice in this way for a 

 little while until he learns to start and stop at the proper com- 

 mand. Then take a buggy whip, crack it or touch him lightly 

 on the rump, when starting him up. Teach him the word 

 " whoa " and " back " ; Avhen he thoroughly understands all of 

 this and the use of the whip, 'put the lines on him, running 

 them back through the shaft tugs instead of the territ rings, to 

 prevent his turning around, and thus teach him all about 

 driving, starting, stopping, and turning. 



Make all these lessons short, and by frequent repetitions 

 impress each point upon his mind. Be kind and considerate at 

 all times, remembering that he is usually willing to do what is 

 required of him if he understands you. Do not scold or swear 

 at him. After each short lesson, give an apple or lump of 

 sugar, or some delicacy of which he may be fond, as a reward 

 for good behavior; it is surprising to see how soon he will 

 learn to appreciate such awards or favors. Be sure you bitf 

 him thoroughly and practice this for some time before attempt-., 

 ing to drive in harness on the road. If the colt has always 

 been petted and treated kindly, as he should be, and has no 

 fear of man, there will be but little trouble. 



The fall after your colt is one year old, if well cared for 

 and well grown, it will do to commence driving him in a light 

 rig. My own method is to drive first double beside a quiet 

 horse, in order to get him accustomed to the road and to sights 



