In the Miniature Horse industry, the number of geldings is
relatively low; they are far and few between. However, as the
popularity o the show circuit is increasing every year, the
number of geldings is on the rise.
Common sense, combined with good herdsmanship, dictates that
we castrate (geld) colts with no special promise in the gene
pool. The ease in transporting a mare to that special
stallion who has the potential to sire a winner is an
important factor that should be considered. One should also
consider gelding all colts that are not at least as good as or
better than their sires or dams.
Thought should be given as to when is the best time to geld
your colt. Because infection spreading flies are normally
dormant in the late fall after a frost until early spring,
this is generally accepted as the most favorable time to geld
a colt. The proper age at which one should geld a colt should
also be a consideration. The age is dependent upon the goals
you have set for your Miniature gelding and also upon the look
that you desire your horse to achieve, with regards to muscle
development and masculinity.
Your gelding can be started in performance training at
approximately two years of age. Begin training in the
obstacle and jumping events first, for the growth plates of
any horse should be closed prior to starting the more
strenuous training in driving. The gelding's behavior remains
fairly consistent from day to day, therefore, training is
often less difficult than that of a stallion.
Geldings are usually quiet and dependable. As a rule, they do
not have the excitable temperament of the stallion nor the
nervousness of a mare. Nor is it uncommon to see the lone
gelding in a band of mares showing very caring maternal
instincts toward the young foals. They also can be as
effective in the watch patrol as any mature mare.
Because of his gentle nature, and the ease in which he is
trained, the gelding is ideal for introducing the public to
the world of Miniature Horses.
