I have a 8 month old horse that when we went to feed today charged the fence where my kids were standing. Why would he do this and will he stop it eventually?

Reply from trainer Tracy Zadow:

Young horses can be a handful and if your not always establishing dominance they will try to be the dominate one. Part of growing up for a young colt is working their way up in the herd. So, they always have to be put in their place by the more dominate horse(which is you). So, it sounds like he's trying to move up and he's getting aggressive(typical of stallion behavior) and very dangerous.

You need to start working with him and handling him in a manner of being a very very strict parent. Do not be afraid to be aggressive with him when he gets disrespectful but also take time out to rub him all over and give him good attention when he's being good.

Teach him space respect on the halter and start lunging him. If you need to go feed him with a whip in your hand then that's fine. Only use it when he attempts tocharge.....applying the whip in the area that is your space. Do not go after him with it. Let him be the one to run into it. Stay by his food until he walks up in a respectful manner. If he should come into your space and turn his butt to you then immediately use the whip on him until he flees out of your space. Dressage whips are perfect for this type of lesson. He'll get the idea pretty quick that he's not in charge when your around.