by Sandra Goodwin

Created on: March 26, 2009   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

A mule is the result of a horse and donkey breeding, sterile hybrids who cannot reproduce. Mules, for me, are the best of both these equine types. They are blessed with the uncanny intelligence of the donkey coupled with the physical attributes of the horse. Careful and selective breeding is producing mules equal in looks and ability to any horse.

Mules have suffered from bad press, being labeled stubborn or dangerous by folk who either never knew a mule or simply misunderstood them. Mules will tolerate discipline but not abuse. They know the difference.

Patience is the key for getting along with this unique equine species. What some consider stubbornness is just a mule thinking it over. Giving them time to decide if what you are asking is reasonable and safe is all it takes to get willing compliance. Once it's understood you respect that part of their mental makeup you will have their trust. Trust is a big issue for mules. Mules need to know they can depend on you to keep them safe and be fair in your expectations. They want your trust that they will show you the same.

Working with your mule from the time they are little, teaching them manners and respect will help forge a lifelong bond. They learn quickly and are easily bored by repetition so have some fun with your mule inventing games to engage their minds. Perhaps, because their lifespans are longer, mules mature slower than horses. Give a mule more years to grow than the typical horse before starting saddle training. As a general rule, four to five is old enough to begin light riding. If you have put enough time into ground training you will probably have a mule who enjoys the new experience of riding with you.

Mules have a long and varied history of working for humans. They've been given tasks requiring great strength and stamina. A mule knows their physical limits and will simply quit the job if they feel it's too dangerous healthwise to go on. A smart mule person understands this self preservation mechanism and allows a mule to make their own decision about continuing. The difficult, challenging ride taken by tourists every year to the bottom of the Grand Canyon is done on mules. The animal's surefooted ability and sense of self protection is the reason there has never been an accident.

Mules are great examples of "you reap what you sow.". Honor what they are because there is no finer partner than a kind hearted mule.

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