Halter training lambs

shanzone2001 · #1 02/07/10, 07:13 PM

We have two 2-month old lambs that my daughter wants to show at the fair. Mom is now away from them, and we have been in and out of the pen, so they are used to us (somewhat) and one will eat grain out of our hands. I put a halter on her and she did not like it at all...which I am sure is natural. My bottle baby goats were so much easier for obvious reasons, but we are getting concerned that these two will remain skiddish.
Any suggestions? How long does it take to get them used to this?
Thanks!

arcticow · #2 02/07/10, 07:21 PM

It will take at least 10 days to 2 weeks... and they should be led to water or to feed to make it a positive reward. Feed and water outside their pen till they get used to the halter.

airotciv · #3 02/08/10, 07:16 PM

Well, its like training a puppy, to walk on a leash. Some do much better than others. The goats were so much easier than the sheep, I use a halter on all my animals, because I need to control them at a young age. The sheep and goats out weigh me. the sheep were a little skiddish, and came around in about 3 days. I'm the Food lady. When you get them to trust you, it makes everything much easier.

Shoupie · #4 02/08/10, 09:56 PM

I raised show lambs for a number of years and found this to be my favorite way of breaking them in. Once they're weaned and have had a good break to build their immune systems and get used to the feeding program I throw a halter on them and let them wear it for a day or two. Then tie them up very tightly to a solid wall and let them throw whatever fit they want until they calm down then I untie them and feed them. Do that for about a week till they stand calm when tied. Then I like to put grain in my pockets and after having them stand tied I lead them around and encourage them to walk around in a small pen so they can't try to run off with you. Your daughter should start feeding them routinly so she becomes food lady. A good thing to do once you have them standing quiet is to touch evey inch of their body and get them used to having their legs picked up and placed in a different spot.

shanzone2001 · #5 02/08/10, 11:07 PM

Thanks for all the advice! We are ready to tackle this head on!