Question: I own a 6 year old Oldenburg stallion. He has impeccable conformation, manners, and unlimited potential. I am concerned that I may be pushing him too much or that his work load may be too much for his growing body. He is currently being shown in 3'6 to 4' hunter and is winning almost every class he is entered in. He is willing to move up and has already been jumped up to 5' and this concerns me a little bit. My coach feels that he will decide where and when his limitations are and that he will work up to a level that he feels comfortable at. I am astonished by his natural abilities and I am definitely ready to take him to higher levels but I worry that the stress of the harder work will put too much stress on him--both mentally and physically. I wanted to get a second opinion and so this is why I am writing. I have great expectations that I know he will meet, I just don't want to push him too far too fast. We will hopefully be showing at Spruce Meadows within the next 2 years or so and many feel that he is ready for that caliber of jumping at this time. Do you think that I should give him a year or so of light work so that he can develop mentally and physically or should I continue with training and show him in tougher competition?

Answer: Each horse is a little different in how it handles the demands of work, but it sounds to me as though your horse is on a good schedule for its age, abilities, and temperament. As long as your horse continues to win ribbons, stay sound, and seem to be a "happy camper," then I wouldn't worry.