[Gerts]

Hey Chris,

I too am a horse owner. My puppy was also about 4 months old (like Donna's) when I took him out every day with the horse. We played long and hard that first year+, with rides of distance under our belts...(until the dog's prey drive made rides just impossible) My horse, bless his wonderful attitude, was on his last nerve with that dog!

Anyways, total ignorance on my part 5 years ago, set my dog up for a "slower life " now.
He gets stiff very easily and sometimes whines a bit getting off his dog bed after a walk or jog. He has to be cooled down for an extensive period after exercise with occassional rubdowns before he can go lay down for the evening or he has some pain in his shoulder when rising.

I am absolutely positive it is all my own fault for pushing him too hard before he was mature enough.

That being said, let your puppy just be a puppy, and remember he/she is still just a baby! I would suggest at least 18 mo. or longer if puppy matures a little slower, give him/her ample time.

I have vowed to actually use my brain with my next puppy, so that I don't have to see it in pain because of my stupidity!

Enjoy your riding!!