>>> They are so different than other breeds.
I don't think they are so different than other breeds. I think there's a lot of incorrect information being circulated about them, and this particular article did it's share of giving incorrect information. >>>Icelandics need a special saddle and a bridle which consists of a soft >>>bit, reins and a nose band.<<<< UNTRUE. >>>Keep the reins loose. Icelandics have relatively soft mouths and are more >>>voice responsive anyway.<<< All horses have soft mouths... until they are ruined / hardened by riders and trainers. We SHOULD keep the reins loose, but how many times do you see icelandic-style riders do that? >>>In trot, relax and sit, and push your weight down in the stirrups so that you don't bounce as much.<<< What?!?!? >>> In canter and gallop, most Icelandics will go straight from a halt to the required gait, so grab mane!<<<< And that would be why? Because they aren't trained properly? Because the trainers have no idea how to teach a horse to rate speed? >>>>Always hold mane in faster gaits, as Icelandics are very fast and take off unexpectedly.<<<< Same answer as above.... it's the fault of the trainers who lack the knowledge. Judy http://icehorses.net http://clickryder.com
