The early years play an important role in shaping a horse’s future. During this period, physical development, social interaction, movement, nutrition and everyday experiences all contribute to the foundation for later life.
At Maverick Stables, we believe good rearing starts with allowing young horses to be young horses. They need space to move, appropriate social interaction and time to develop, combined with the structure, care and guidance they need along the way.
Every young horse develops differently. Through close daily observation, we follow their growth, condition, behaviour and individual development and adapt our management where necessary.
Alongside their physical development, young horses gradually learn the practical foundations that will help them throughout their lives. Calm, clear and consistent handling allows them to become familiar with people, boundaries and everyday situations without taking away their confidence or ability to think for themselves.
Our aim is not to rush the process, but to build the foundations for a healthy, confident and capable horse.
The years between foalhood and the beginning of a horse’s future career are an important period of development.
During this time, the body is growing, coordination changes and the young horse continuously learns from its environment, its herd and the people around it. Good rearing is therefore about much more than providing feed and turnout.
We aim to create an environment that supports natural development while gradually building the practical foundations a young horse will need later in life.
There is no need to rush the process. By observing the individual horse and adapting management as it develops, we allow time for both physical and mental maturity.
What we build during these early years becomes the foundation for what comes next.
Practical Information
Young horses are kept in carefully considered groups, allowing them to interact, play and learn from one another while we continue to observe each horse individually.
Regular movement is an essential part of growing up. Our management is designed to give young horses appropriate opportunities to move freely and develop their balance, coordination and strength naturally.
Nutrition is considered in relation to age, growth, body condition and individual development. We aim to support steady development rather than simply encouraging rapid growth.
Young horses learn through every interaction. We introduce everyday handling clearly and consistently, teaching them to understand what is being asked while allowing them to remain confident and willing.
Health and physical development are followed throughout the rearing period. Necessary veterinary care, farrier visits and other professional appointments are coordinated as part of the horse’s management.
Management changes as the young horse matures. Group composition, feeding, handling and housing are reconsidered throughout the different stages of development rather than remaining fixed from foal to adult horse.
