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Post by waspblue on May 31, 2015 21:59:43 GMT
I personally really like the breed, despite having had a bad accident off a naughty one last year, I have found a pony that I really like, but everyone I speak to is trying to put me off him, saying things such as they are all quirky, naughty etc etc. I feel this is horribly unfair and wonder what they are basing their opinions on, as I think it is like saying all rottweilers are vicious, I know people with them who have very gentle rotties and so on.
If anyone should be down on a breed it should be me after my accident, but I just feel that they can't all be bad, naughty or quirky or buck or bolt? I've met very naughty ponies of all breeds over my lifetime, hence my feeling of unfairness.
I'd really appreciate any views on this please, if there are genuine reasons why I am getting this bad feedback when I personally still really like the breed. Can anyone restore my wobbling faith and go after a pony that I really like without the bad thoughts crowding my mind. Surely there is good and bad in everything.
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Post by Karen, garrettponies on Jun 1, 2015 0:00:06 GMT
I think people expect too much too soon with Highlands, they are very slow to mature mentally and physically so pushing them too young is not a good thing, not necessarily naughty just they can't cope. By 8, they are starting to switch on, its the breed. I love Highlands, I had a lovely boy that I sold as I just didn't have the time to do him justice, he's just turned 9 and is coming into his own. Same with Connemara ponies too. I bought one at 18 months old, broke her in at four, she decided to grow up when she was 7. We've had a few and they've all been the same, slow to mature, its the breed.
There seems to be such a need to have ponies out there doing RI and HOYS so young and are pushed too hard too soon and then wonder why they go sour. Patience and time pays off.
Good luck with whatever you decide, hope what Ive said makes sense:)
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Post by highlanderlass on Jun 1, 2015 6:52:28 GMT
I too had an accident on a Highland over 10 years ago, but we still bought another two. I'm of the impression that for every 1 bad Highland there is 500 good ones. Our older Highland was 7 years old when we got her, it was the year following my accident, I am no longer allowed to ride but my daughter does. The confidence this pony has given my daughter is unbelievable, so much so that we bought a newly weaned 6 month old Highland Filly. My daughter has broken her in to ride now and she has the same nature as our older girl but more forward, both are used at the RDA and my daughter teaches there. I would never tar any two ponies with the same brush, regardless of breed. We had our issues with our older Highland but nothing that couldn't be sorted, both our girls have a home for life with us, they have and they are certainly earning it.
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Post by ruddles on Jun 1, 2015 7:23:05 GMT
have pm'd you
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Post by viking on Jun 1, 2015 8:00:15 GMT
I think people expect too much too soon with Highlands, they are very slow to mature mentally and physically so pushing them too young is not a good thing, not necessarily naughty just they can't cope. By 8, they are starting to switch on, its the breed. I love Highlands, I had a lovely boy that I sold as I just didn't have the time to do him justice, he's just turned 9 and is coming into his own. Same with Connemara ponies too. I bought one at 18 months old, broke her in at four, she decided to grow up when she was 7. We've had a few and they've all been the same, slow to mature, its the breed. There seems to be such a need to have ponies out there doing RI and HOYS so young and are pushed too hard too soon and then wonder why they go sour. Patience and time pays off. Good luck with whatever you decide, hope what Ive said makes sense:) Well said Karen. I couldn't agree more.
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Post by snowman on Jun 1, 2015 8:15:39 GMT
Having worked with a few highlands I agree with the comments re them being over done too quickly. They can be quite backwards in their work that is misread as to being uncoordinated due to their size until they fully mature at 7/9. People push them to get them into the show ring and they are not given the chance to find their feet, as they do "trip" a lot in their younger ridden years, and most find it hard to sit up and use their quarters unless they are correctly schooled over the required time. People tend to take their uncoordination as stubbornness and they then sour them by over riding them in the crucial years.
If you have found a pony you like then give it a chance - time waits for no man and if it's a good pony it will soon find the right home for itself and you will be left searching for the "right pony" - good luck in your search
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Post by Louise Dixon on Jun 1, 2015 8:37:00 GMT
Absolutely agree with what's said above.
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Post by ponymum on Jun 1, 2015 8:51:40 GMT
I think they are a fabulous breed , safe sane and very useful due to their size and shape. I owned one a long time ago and he was a novice when I bought him , just backed . I used to ride and lead my tiny daughter out on her pony with him and one day her saddle slipped on the main road and I jumped off my highland without thinking of him (just my girl) and just left him while I pulled my daughter off her pony (she was dangling upside down at this point!) as I was worried she might break her neck. He just stood there calmly waiting for me to sort her out - all the while the traffic continued to drive around us in both directions!!!! He was a fab boy , bred by the Langley stud - Highly reccomend there stuff x
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Post by waspblue on Jun 1, 2015 11:23:00 GMT
Thankyou everyone for your replies, I am not definite as regards this pony at moment and haven't even been to see it, as I say it is just a word of mouth thing and I was curious as to why everyone just looked at me in horror when I said I would still consider the breed. I have a couple of ponies in mind but daren't rush into anything at all in light of what happened. I realise that any pony can do anything at any time, but am trying to be careful and limit my risk factors by seeing them in every situation that I would want to ride them in. I bought my last horse this way and it worked out well, yet every time I've bought in a rush it's never worked out, so I am taking it as a lesson learned.
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meld
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Post by meld on Jun 1, 2015 12:34:11 GMT
I can't believe people are trying to put you off! People who have never had anything to do with breed and would never consider owning one, are very taken with ours and would now want one if they weren't so costly. I would undoubtedly have another if I had more time and funds.
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Post by honeypot on Jun 1, 2015 18:43:48 GMT
I have had a variety of M&M breeds and I love Highlands, but you have to persuade them not bully them. They tend to be slower maturing and get tired easily when young, so things have to be short, sweet and they must have it laid out for them as to what you want. Start arguing ,bullying , over schooling them and they will say no and you have a whole lump of pony to get round. The other thing people do is not establish basic discipline when they are young, then when they weigh 500kg and they literally walk all over you they are surprised
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Post by flee on Jun 1, 2015 19:34:32 GMT
I've had a number of Highlands over the years and they've done everything from showing , to WH , arena eventing and affiliated dressage ( up to Elimentary level ).They come in lots of different types and personalities , just like any other breed .I personally prefer a more forward going pony thus most of mine come from the same breeder as I like what she has .However I'm no spring chicken and most definately not suicidal so when I say forward I mean forward thinking and not stark raving mad thank you very much ! If Highlands were dogs they'd be terriers -quirky , independent and slightly prone to disobedience , but also tough , loyal and very intelligent .
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Post by waspblue on Jun 2, 2015 0:10:47 GMT
Thanks again all who have responded, I am not in a rush to buy and have only tried one pony so far and have not seen the other but neither have I any firm decisions in mind either at this point, I am determined to see anything I'm interested in at least two or three times in different situations, as if I'd seen my last purchase out hacking or at a show, I'd never have bought it in a million years, so it is really crucial to take my time, not only for my sake but for my future new friend too. We'll just have to see how it goes and hope the right one finds me with a bit of luck and I'll have something to love and cherish and have fun with. One thing is for sure, it is a home for life and the right one will want for nothing, in any way at all.
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Post by inkjet on Jun 2, 2015 6:03:50 GMT
When I said it I didn't mean that they were quirky just that they seemed a lot of hard work in that they are not built (same as the majority of these cobs) to be uphill. Now I know that doesn't mean they can't go well just that they need to be done right. I suppose I agree with a lot of the above in regards to they are big and take a long time to mature as well.
I'm quite open in that I wouldn't buy another cob. I thought I'd love a wash and go but worrying about hair and feathers and scrubbing would discourage me. Not that I would swap k for anything else. I thought a nice quiet cob would be easy!
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Post by sjw87 on Jun 2, 2015 8:08:57 GMT
I have little experience with showing Highlands but I do have experience of them as 'all round' ponies in their native environment - the Scottish Highlands.
What I have never understood is why a breed that is renowned for being so sure footed in it's natural environment (and those who have been to the Highlands will know the ground these ponies are bred to live on all year round), is so well known for tripping when being produced to show??
If these ponies have evolved to gallop safely across some very difficult terrain, why are they so likely to trip when working on a flat surface? Is it that people are rushing them or is it that the ponies being bred for the show ring are becoming distanced from what evolution has intended? Or a combination of both??
Sent from my GT-I9195 using proboards
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sarahp
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Post by sarahp on Jun 2, 2015 9:02:51 GMT
In its natural environment it won't have a rider on its back - maybe they just take time to get muscle and balance to carry one?
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Post by sjw87 on Jun 2, 2015 9:29:34 GMT
In its natural environment it won't have a rider on its back - maybe they just take time to get muscle and balance to carry one? Fair point but no breed would have a rider in it's natural environment yet don't seem to be as renowned for tripping as highlands are Sent from my GT-I9195 using proboards
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sarahp
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Post by sarahp on Jun 2, 2015 10:50:56 GMT
True! Hairies not my breed, it was just a thought.
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Post by Karen, garrettponies on Jun 2, 2015 15:43:51 GMT
I have little experience with showing Highlands but I do have experience of them as 'all round' ponies in their native environment - the Scottish Highlands. What I have never understood is why a breed that is renowned for being so sure footed in it's natural environment (and those who have been to the Highlands will know the ground these ponies are bred to live on all year round), is so well known for tripping when being produced to show?? If these ponies have evolved to gallop safely across some very difficult terrain, why are they so likely to trip when working on a flat surface? Is it that people are rushing them or is it that the ponies being bred for the show ring are becoming distanced from what evolution has intended? Or a combination of both?? Sent from my GT-I9195 using proboards Possibly because everyone uses arenas, flat surfaces these days, expect too much too soon by way of schooling/outlines? Not sure really! The highland I had tripped up when he was first backed but he genuinely wasn't sure quite what to do with his feet, he was brought up on hilly fields in Scotland and was very careful. I think until they grow up Highlands aren't very good at multi-tasking! He was very willing, happy to work but engaging brain to think and operate legs at the same time was hard work!
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Post by Guestless on Jun 2, 2015 17:06:28 GMT
In its natural environment it won't have a rider on its back - maybe they just take time to get muscle and balance to carry one? Fair point but no breed would have a rider in it's natural environment yet don't seem to be as renowned for tripping as highlands are Sent from my GT-I9195 using proboards I have two Highlands and, being a Scot have ridden a fair number, I cannot say I agree with them being renowned for tripping. I think ANY breed can be inclined to trip if the rider lets it ample along with its head between its knees or conversely pushed to move beyond their natural capabilities but certainly my experience isn't that Highlands trip more frequently. In fact, I can't think of my Whitefield mare EVER tripping. I think people who describe Highlands as naughty and quirky are those who expect quiet little obedient ponies with no personality - if you expect the latter, then you will end up with the former
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Post by sjw87 on Jun 2, 2015 17:12:19 GMT
Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love Highlands and my personal experience of them is not as being prone to tripping. However, I have heard many, many references by producers and owners of them in England who make reference to them being prone to tripping and seem to really berate them for it.
Sent from my GT-I9195 using proboards
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Post by robrocks on Jun 2, 2015 17:21:39 GMT
Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love Highlands and my personal experience of them is not as being prone to tripping. However, I have heard many, many references by producers and owners of them in England who make reference to them being prone to tripping and seem to really berate them for it. Sent from my GT-I9195 using proboards Any pony who is is built slightly downhill such as a fell or highland is without doubt inclined to trip until it level outs and learns under saddle to carry itself. If allowed to go on the fore hand I'm afraid tripping is a distinct possibility which Highlands in particular are prone too especially in their formative years.
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Post by hack on Jun 3, 2015 21:29:06 GMT
We bought our first highland two and a half years ago, after having mainly anglos/hack/RHs. Took a little while to get used to . . . 'No mum, she doesn't need a rug' (came from Scotland to Cheshire), 'nope, doesn't need hard feed' (as a 3 year old). Backing as a 4yo, kind of got on and she went 'ok, I get it' then we were gently hacking with two weeks, including main roads/crossing a dual carriageway.
We have had one trip (embarrassing somersault at a training clinic!), luckily we were both ok. this has made me much more aware of not letting her amble along and keeping her thinking. But as she's still a baby (now 5), schooling is short and kept interesting.
We do as much as possible whilst hacking, although multi-tasking is not her forte (unless food is involved!) cannot walk and poo, never mind trot!!
Now she's 5 and much fitter, she can be much more of a handful!!but I wouldn't swap her for anything.
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justliloldme
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Post by justliloldme on Jun 3, 2015 21:52:55 GMT
Take along time but are very loving and loyal is you get a good one, mine is 7 and owned since just before 3, hes turned from a ugly duckling into a swan and still dont ask much of him mentally and wont do for another couple of years, the rushed ones can end up quirky x
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silvershadow
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Post by silvershadow on Jun 9, 2015 18:00:20 GMT
As you know Waspblue I have my lovely Syd. Yes he can be "quirky" and a bit grumpy and he is very very sensitive, he can get very upset when in pain as we found out the other week! But, I have found that while I have to be very firm with him, gentle persuasion brings out the best in him. And once he's on your side, he would do anything for you. He is incredibly loyal and loving, and would never intentionally hurt anyone. I've fell in love with highlands and wouldn't get rid of my big man for all the tea in China ?
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Post by waspblue on Jun 9, 2015 22:20:23 GMT
As you know Waspblue I have my lovely Syd. Yes he can be "quirky" and a bit grumpy and he is very very sensitive, he can get very upset when in pain as we found out the other week! But, I have found that while I have to be very firm with him, gentle persuasion brings out the best in him. And once he's on your side, he would do anything for you. He is incredibly loyal and loving, and would never intentionally hurt anyone. I've fell in love with highlands and wouldn't get rid of my big man for all the tea in China ? We knew straightaway that he wasn't being naughty, but that something was hurting him, because he told us in his own way and we listened to him. He's a lovely boy and a huge character and I love him. He even told us he was hurting when he was just stood still - talk about clever natives - he'll be on Britains Got Talent next doubling up for Matisse on the tightrope lol....
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Post by dsmum on Jun 15, 2015 17:48:18 GMT
I have a highland stallion who shows at a high level. He is very sane and sensible but I agree with most of the above - once he felt secure and trusted in those handling and riding he is an absolute star......in the beginning he was stubborn and tried every trick in the book. Patience and consistency is the key to getting the `perfect' highland. Good luck in your search.
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Post by borderreiver on Jun 22, 2015 18:24:35 GMT
My 7 year old home bred Highland pony is my perfect pony, ideal for me that is. He is kind, good natured, straightforward not quirky, does not trip or barge and is a total pleasure. He was my first experience of bringing up a pony from birth, something I have waited a long time to do being in my 60's now, and we enjoy carriage driving together. He is forward going but safe and not spooky, good on and off road and has great feet and works barefoot. Highlands every time!
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Post by sometime on Jun 23, 2015 23:31:11 GMT
My 19 year old highland mare is the best pony in the world my 4 year old grandaughter rides her off lead and she is tiny and cannot even rise to trot yet and has a ball bobbling about the pony moves to make sure she doesnt fall and hitches her back when she overbalances. She has been ridden by disabled riders again moving under them to keep them in the plate. This week she is taking a novice rider to her first HOYS qualifier and will look after her there too but will up her game to be competitive. She does dressage, show jumps,is faster than some tbs across country and is the most versatile pony ever bred. She is sure footed, rarely trips and as long as she is moving on her bit and forward looks an absolute picture. I know some are a bit stuffy and bargy but it depends on how they are raised and brought on. Her daughter is very forward going , jumps like a stag and can be a handful but has a mouth like silk so easily stopped when ridden correctly. Because kids ride my ponies they are taught from day one they must not attempt to eat while wearing a bit so never drag their heads down so dislodging their little jockeys. I am sure other breeds have their gems but it is highlands every time for me. If as breed they were not perfect for a variety of riders they would not have been almost exclusively used in trecking centers for the last 50 years, It is only when they became fashionable and were priced out of the trecking centers that anyone even thought of using anything else
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Post by bigmama on Jun 24, 2015 11:26:57 GMT
Six and a half years of love, fun and success with gentleman highland Hector ... highlands are fantastic and versitile ponies but be patient with them, it takes a while for them to mature
Thank you Hector, love you so much, always will xxxxx
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