Training The willingness of a horse to respond to the handler's cues is a result of training. As more intricate maneuvers are desired for higher levels of competition, the more training is needed. Sometimes, highly tuned horses are so responsive to the riders' cues that the novice confuses the horse and gets no response. It is also possible to have a horse trained to the point that you get more response than you want, ie. too fast a spin, too quick a start, too hard a stop, and the rider gets hurt. Adequate training for the intended use combined with an experienced disposition is important.
Mares often look more refined and prettier, but can have dramatic behavior changes when in estrus.
Geldings are often quieter and more consistent but more difficult to show in halter classes. The only reason to own a stallion is to either breed mares or performance test a potential breeding stallion. Sires in the horse industry should be of superior quality and have successful performance records. Only those able to improve the breed should be bred. Nonregistered males should be gelded within the first ten months of life to minimize stress on the horse and handlers.