Posted, December 6, 2006

Skelton Mountain Dream Ranch
Breeders of the Pure Spanish Horse in America

Versatility in the Breed

The SMDR horses are certainly predisposed to dressage but continue to excel in other areas. For the first five years, the Skeltons focused on rail classes such as in-hand (halter), hunt seat, driving, saddle seat and western pleasure where they won 17 Champion and Reserve National Championships and 51 Top Five National Finishes to name just a few of their most impressive accomplishments.

SMDR horses are handled from the moment they are born. After ensuring they understand basic halter training, picking up their feet (farriers love this), tying, and clipping, foals enjoy learning to be just “horses” by running and playing in the mountain pastures.

Prior to being started under saddle, young horses are periodically brought to the barn to refine their in-hand work and refresh their knowledge of handling. SMDR horses have impeccable ground manners. When the horses turn three and their knees have closed, they are started under saddle.

The newly started horses are trailered offsite and to schooling shows to learn manners away from the ranch. At four years of age, they typically start their competitive dressage careers.