sallyanna
12-27-07, 06:03 PM
I have a 3 year old lab and was wondering if there's anything I can do to prepare her for the arrival of a horse? She's fairly obedient, well mannered, except when it comes to foxes and skunks, PEWWW! She'll bolt after them and ignore everyone.
I am thinking of doing a round of obedience school this spring. What else can I do to prepare her for a horse? I don't want her spooking it or getting trampled.
tikitowel
12-28-07, 10:36 AM
As long as she has a good solid recall and can learn to respect a horse's space she should be ok. Lots of dogs just see horses ad big dogs and don't realize they are much stronger. If you can call her back 100% of the time when she's in the pasture or somewhere she shouldn't be you should be able to teach her to respect a horse's space.
The calling back is a good one, I have seen some dogs and horses not mix that well. My Aunt has the mini horse and they have a 15 month old collie. The dog is awesome around the horse, and other animals they have. Its always good to be on the look out for issues that might arise though, that dog might think the entire property is his/her domain. :)
PonyClub
12-28-07, 04:31 PM
I think that if you have any concerns at this point then it probably indicates that there is a behavioural issue with your dog. That being the case, you really would do well by her to take her to obedience training school before doing this. It would make it easier on all of you.
If your lab bolts after any other kind of animal I would be a little concerned. Better safe than sorry. I would take the dog to obedience school and make sure that the potential issue is addressed before there is a problem.