Training starts at birth, as we do everything possible to be present when our mares foal, in case of complications. This usually means numerous nights of little or no sleep. Immediately after birth we rub the foal down and make sure it is nursing and ensure that the mare is doing well. Within days of birth we start halter training our babies by having one person lead the mare and another follow leading the foal using a "bum" rope and directing the foal with our bodies. In the first three months we start lifting the foals feet, getting them to give and move to pressure. Familiarizing them to foreign objects such as clippers, vacuum, blow dryers and general grooming is important at this stage. By this age they are halter trained and we start simple training which consists of walking over rails, tarps, bridges and anything else we can think of. Foals are trained to load and trailer with their dams by six months of age. At age one to two we start training with verbal commands for walk, trot, wow, while long lining. At two years old we start harness training and will pair them up with a mature horse for double driving. We start riding by the time they are three year olds for short periods in the arena, and also for short durations in the open. By the time they are long three year olds and four they are in a regular training program.

We find the trick is to always end on a positive note with training and keep it fun for them. Fjords are very willing to please and you should approach training in a calm, consistent manner. If something isn't working, look at what you are doing and don't blame it on the horse. Usually it is a communication problem.

Not Born Broke

I've spent the last thirty years training young horses and never once have I had one born broke, not even Norwegian Fjords. Experience has taught me that Norwegian Fjords generally love to please but have just enough of a independent personality to keep it interesting. What I have come to admire most about Fjords, even after a days work they are always willing to come back for more. Norwegian Fjords easily get accustomed to deworming, clipping, trailering, farrier and even veterinarians. Since they're very food driven I always caution new owners about hand feeding, and I highly recommend you don't since they become quite persistent about looking for the goodies.

We teach our Fjords at a young age not to invade our space while feeding.