I did the ride to Phantom Ranch in the Grand Canyon a couple years ago. What we were told was, you never cross a mule because it'll hold a grudge as long as it's alive and wait to pay you back at their convenience.
A guy I know used to raise horses and mules. He said a mule was ten times smarter than any horse ever dreamed of being. He trained one roping mule to work off voice commands. He also said you should never mistreat your mule, as it will never forget, and sooner or later, it will get even.
Yeah, they are super smart, and they are thoughtful vs reactive (for the most part). They’re really special animals and we’re really thankful for ours! 😊 I think your friend was right- if you mistreat them, it could take a loooong time to earn back their trust.
Slow, steady & reliable. Sounds like my Toyota. Great educational video for back country trips. l have heard many of the same pluses about mules over horses for many years. Thanks again
The Toyotas of the equine world 😊🙌🏼 That’s really a good comparison- not super flashy, but they are reliable, and the people who own them really appreciate them! Thanks for watching and taking time to leave a nice comment!
I was in Yosemite, waiting for my brother nephew and son to get back from a high trail ride. A mule was tied up in the staging area; only a piece of twine separated his back hooves from where I stood. A woman pulled up on a bicycle pulling a bike trailer with her child. She parked the bike, with the trailer squarely behind the back hooves of the mule. And the bike fell over with a clatter! A horse would have kicked out at the noise and run a quarter mile away, and only then looked to see what made that noise. The mule turned its head around; you could almost see the thought balloon "tourists!" and then calmly went back to its quiet contemplation while waiting to be ridden. A mule is just more sensible than a horse.
Hahaha “tourists!” 😂 That made me laugh out loud! Thanks for sharing such a fun story. That’s a great example of a mule’s inclination to think things through before reacting! 😊🙌🏼
@@MTN_BUILT I’ll say! They not only navigate narrow trails in a sheer cliff face, but do so carrying nervous riders, many of whom have had little or no experience in riding - amazing calmness and patience!
My dad was a believer in horses. He had a team of two that he used in hauling logs when he was a teenager. His dad (my grandfather) was a believer in mules. The last two mules grandfather had were Kate and Jack (which he used as plow mules). Kate was a very gentle girl, while Jack had to be the meanest mule in all of Tennessee. I feel fortunate to be an individual who can, at age 68, handle a team of mules....although I haven't done it since I was 12.
That’s really cool. They definitely both have their strong points 😊 I just feel fortunate to get to have equines of any kind here on our little property! The mules seem to be perfect for the kind of riding we do though 😊
I remember the Grand Canyon Mules. As a kid in the 1970s, we went on that trail ride every year from 1974 to 1979. There was a steel gray mule with black legs, mane, tail and mascara named Bellamy. That mule took one look at me and snorted EACH YEAR then proceeded to completely ignore anything I asked him to do and just went along on his merry way. There used to be a couple of vista points for taking photographs and I never got to stop no matter what- he just kept going. Apparently he was in his 20s at that time, so well over twice my age and didn't think some brat had any need to stop when he knew his feed bag was at the bottom of the trail.
Haha! 😂 That’s awesome that you got to do that ride so many times. And that’s super cool that you got to ride the same mule each time! Yeah, it seems like those mules make there living by not varying from the course- at all! lol Hopefully you at least got a picture of the experience somewhere, even though Bellamy wouldn’t let you stop along the trail 😊
He wasn’t making the hike because he wanted to, he was going because you wanted to. He’d seen it all before and it wasn’t in his interest to stop. Sounds like a great trip anyway.
I was hiking down the trail at Grand Canyon and the rules of the trail were to give mules the right of way. I was standing off to the side as the mules passed and one of them stumbled. I almost said to the rider "you got Old Clumsy" but I didn't think he would appreciate it.
I like people who don't horse around. Over 100 years ago our family had two legendary matched mules, Jake and Jehu, who were amazing working animals well into their teens. My grandfather said if a horse gets its hoof caught in a fence it will thrash its hoof off. A mule will wait for help. Great vid. There is no fool who rides a mule.
I’m not really experienced in the equine industry, but i’ve always wanted a mule. Thanks for posting these to help me learn more about these guys 🙁 they’re great
You need to add to your list, The best reason to ride a mule is the ride, the smooth gate. They are so comfortable to ride. It is more of a glide than a ride. I can ride all day on a mule and not get sore. The trot is softer, the gallop is shorter and needs some getting use to but the fast walk of a mule can't be beat. I miss my mule.
Everyone made fun of my jack donkey being only 48 inches, saying he would never breed my morgan. One morning in the dim fog, the sun just coming up, something was doing wind sprints in my pasture. Upon investigation, there was my little mule soaking wet from birth. He raced from one end of the pasture and back. He didnt care about leaving his mom. She didnt care either. I named him Zoomer. He would be 23 years old now. He just came up to the house for a fig newton. One thing about mules...if they know you are going riding, they will load 6 or 7 times into the trailer, by thenselves, waiting for the stupid horse to get in. ❤❤❤
Haha! Thats awesome! 😂🙌🏼 And zoomed sounds like the perfect name! We hope to have ours for as long as you’ve had zoomed… we’ve only had ours for 3 years, and we absolutely love them- I can only imagine the bond you’ve formed with yours!
That’s awesome! I bet you have some amazing memories… hopefully we’ll have as many years with mules as you did 😊 Thank you for watching and taking time to leave a comment 😊
Fantastic video with much common sense. My father was a mule man in the sixties and seventies , everything you have said is spot on target. Thank you for sharing. Mikel
Mules along with draft horses, are under appreciated. You need to be patient and kind with a mule though. Unlike a horse, you can’t just bully them. It’s a more partnership oriented relationship.
I’ve more horse experience (virtually) as a grandma of a barrel racer. However one of our horse friends took me on a trail ride on her mule. Unbelievably comfortable and secure. The mule had ideas of her own. It responded to correction. I fondly remember the vertical climbs it made so sure footed. Amazing animal! If I were ever to have enough property I would definitely invest in a mule.
Oh that’s so cool! Yeah, a good mule is super fun to ride in rough country like you’re explaining 😊 Good horses are sure fun too, though- especially for people who like to go fast, like your granddaughter! 😊 Hopefully she has a great spring and summer barrel racing! Have fun watching 😊
Hi new subscriber here, I have three horses and a miniature horse and donkey. I am very interested in getting a mule for my wife who is a novice but from watching your videos we’re convinced a mule would be a great fit for her, now to find one. Take care
That’s fantastic! 😊 Sounds like you guys already have an awesome herd, and a good mule would be a great addition! You probably already know this from your time with horses, but just be sure that her mule is a GOOD mule- mules that have been mistreated can be tough to get along with. I hope you find a great one, because they’re absolutely awesome animals 😊 Thanks for watching and taking time to leave such a fun comment! I’m excited for you guys! Don’t ever hesitate to reach out if you have any questions- I think our email is on our channel homepage (if not, I’ll put it up there in just a minute) 😊
You are so lucky, I have been around horses and donkeys since age 4 and I'm 66 now. I live in the UK and one thing I have always wanted was to ride or own a mule. I know they are calmer, stronger, cleverer but in all those years I have never seen or met a mule. We just dont have them here, I watch one channel, Modern History about Knights and Medieval life and horses, and Jason whose channel it is, had to import his "Mule with no name" from Europe because there were none here. I would love one. You have the best possible life in my opinion. I would give my back teeth to live where you do❤ I really want to do some long rides into the Scottish Highlands which is where I come from and, we do have our very own sturdy, sure footed mountain machines in the Highland pony which is a fantastic breed, used for packs, pony trekking, carrying deer from shoots off the mountain and are, my favourite breed and are especially great if cross bred with say, a Thoroughbred for endurance riding competitively. I know Highland ponies who would be excellent for endurance as is. However, I have always had a "thing" about mules and would love to see the outcome of a Highland/donkey cross as Highlands are typically around 14.2 hh and, I think the outcome would be very hardy and solid as both donkey's and Highlands have similar bone density and all round hardyness. My sister is trying to adopt a couple of Argentinian Ciarolla (I'm not sure of the name but they were brought over for breeding polo ponies and didn't make the grade so she's trying to rescue them) what I have read of this indigenous Argentinian breed is that its hardy, sure footed and ticks all the boxes as mules and Highlands do. I will subscribe for any tips etc because I'm sure theres lots of cross over despite the absence of mules here. To address anyone who has seen donkey/pony crosses here in the UK, I know it happens but its few and far between and we never get larger mules like the 14-15 hands ones you seem to have over there.
Well I hope you get to be around one some time 😊🙏🏼 The highland horse sounds great, and I love your ideas of a highland/donkey cross- I think that would make an amazing mule! 😊 One fun thing about starting this RUclips channel is getting to hear about other mountain equines that people enjoy. It sounds like highlands and the Argentinian breed that your sister is trying to adopt are awesome animals too 😊🙌🏼 Thanks for watching and leaving such a fun comment- I hope you get to spend some time around mules some day- they’re sure fun animals! Until then, enjoy your awesome highlands! 😊
Because of how smart mules, they are NOT for everyone. Patients and consistency are the key. As loyal as your dog when you establish a relationship with them. Trust worthy and self preservation, they will keep themselves safe and you. “A horse will let you be the boss, a mule wants to see your resume’.” I found this several years back and it’s true and Mules will always be checking up on that resume’. Most lovable, kind, animal I’ve ever owned. Honor them and enjoy! ❤
This is PERFECTLY stated! 😊🙌🏼 I love everything about this comment. I want everyone to get to enjoy mules like we do, but I always get a little nervous when someone says, “I watched your videos and now I want to get a mule!”
We have friends that have mules and used to be outfitters here in Montana. We were elk hunting and my friend said, if he stops on his own, get your binos up. Sure as shit, every time the mules would stop, there were elk. I shot a good bull on the second day and while we were taking care of it, one of the mules starting gnawing on a sawed off elk leg. Tossing it around and playing with it. I said hey Marv, your mule found a toy. He said, huh, I've never seen him do that before.
My dad was born in 1902 and worked teams into the 1940's. He preferred mules. Said they were calmer than horses. They also replaced horses with mules pulling the carriage rides in the Feench Quarter. Better suited to the task in the heat and commotion.
Wow, I guess they need to be super smart to manage the nappy change without opposable thumbs… - that sounds lovely, I once was told of an Alsation minding a toddler and retrieving it utmost carefully if she had walked off too far
I am 5 ft tall, and think a mule would definitely suit smaller riders like me. Also, the narrower build of a mule would suit my short legs. Many years ago, I rode a mule down the Grand Canyon, and it is a treasured memory.
Oh that’s so cool! We would love to do that ride one day 😊 And yes, a mule like my dun mule would be perfect for someone like you! She’s 14.2, but she’s a strong bugger thankfully 😊
When I was a kid (that was the in later part of the last century) friends and I would go camping. My friends had horses but I had a mule. They were jealous when instead of using a saddle (even though I usually used a saddle) all I had to do to go for a ride was put a halter on him, grab his mane and swing myself up and ride bareback. I loved my mule.
I just rode a Mule once on a trail ride. The horses followed in his footsteps in the mountains. He looked over the edge of the trail and just moved calmly a few steps away from the edge. A large bug flew into his head and he didn't spook. I told him when we got back to the barn that I didn't have any carrots but would bring some tomorrow. He remembered and came to the fence when he saw me the next day. He was not as comfortable a ride as the horse there because I have a bad back or I would have wanted to ride him more.
That’s really interesting! 😊 They’re smart and sure-footed, for sure. I’m sorry your back got sore, but I’m thankful you got to at least enjoy one ride! 😊
So interesting! i'm intrigued for sure. looking to get my first ever equine next year for mountain trail riding and camping. Are they really 'stubborn' or hard to train?
Oh awesome! Thats exactly what we use ours for and they’re a great fit 😊 Horses can be really good too though- it really depends on the specific animal. They aren’t stubborn, like their reputation implies, but they do like to think things through. It sounds kind of funny, but if you apply a bunch of pressure to a mule while they’re processing something, they can be prone to just not moving. But if you let them solve the problem and just guide them through that process, they’ll take you wherever you want to go 😊
Raised mules for over 40 years. Same mule that wins reining classes wins hunter jumper classes and packs elk during hunt season. Nothing like mule hugs❤️
Oh wow! That’s so awesome!! We hope to be able to have that much mule experience in our lives 😊🙏🏼 They really are amazing animals! We’re sure thankful to have ours. Thanks for watching and taking time to leave a comment 😊
@@MTN_BUILT They are worse than chips, can’t have just one. I am near 79 and just had 2 mule foals born this spring. Hoping for 2 more. Love your channel and dedication to our 4 sure footed equines.
My mule was great in endurance riding! The Arabs may be the "Cadillac" of the endurance races... but my Mercedes beat them all! I think mules are clever...they are too smart to hurt themselves, or let someone else do so!
My friend and I got lost while trail riding on a super hot humid day. She rode an arabian that was soaking in sweat. My mule had just a little sweat behing his ears and under saddle pad, but very little. The mule could have gone another day or two. Super endurance. I think the best endurance mule would be out of a standardbred mare. Mine was out of a thorobred. He could go forever.
@@ThomasFlipse that’s super cool! Not that you got lost, but that your mule did so well lol It really seems like mules are just perfect for that kind of thing, and it sounds like you had a great one! 😊
I read a book called "The Oregon Trail: A New American Journey" and it gives a lot of history of the mule and its role in the founding of the US and they really are so underappreciated in that aspect. They also give a lot of historical facts like how prized the Andalusian donkey was that exportation was prohibited by Spanish law because of the superior military benefit of mules to an army. George Washington wrote to King Charles of Spain asking to purchase breeding stock and King Charles sent Washington two jennies and a jack as a Royal Gift and Washington became the first American mule breeder.
That’s super cool! I’m reading a book right now called The Mule Alternative, and it’s incredible to see how popular mules were for settlers and military explorers. Thanks for watching and taking time to leave such an interesting comment 😊
Heinlein, Lazarus Long, from Methusla's Children, and more... Mule,...there was 'the Mule', character became a villain in Foundation series, Asimov? These would make good winter reading material. Have a blessed night everyone @MTN_BUILT
My grandpa always bred his work horses to get mules. He claimed a mule could go farther on less feed and be sure footed while doing it. My dad did the breeding when he was a kid. Apparently there was a high spot and a low spot involved. Always wanted to ride a mule. I remember seeing 3 or 4 guys bust out of the woods in the Black Hills with some beautiful mules looked like they were having a lot of fun.
Hi, I was just wondering if a mule would fit me. I'm a big guy, 6' 4" 250ibs in shape, not fat. We were going to start looking for a draft/horse cross, but I like the mule traits and would consider one if it could hold my weight ? Thank you, and great video
Definitely! And they make draft cross mules too which would be so perfect for you! ☺️ either way a draft cross horse or a draft cross mule, just find something with a good easy going mindset. You can train the other things but it’s hard to train them to be chill. Good luck!! ☺️
I have always wanted to own a horse but I have been watching videos about riding mules and it really makes me want to try riding a mule. This is the kind of riding I would like because it is slow and easy.
We sure like ours! We’re just like you- slow and easy is just how we like it 😊 If you get a good mule, you won’t regret it… just make sure you get one that’s been treated well and doesn’t have a bunch of bad habits. The tough ones take someone with a lot of experience to change 😊 Either way, I hope you find the perfect equine for your goals! They’re sure fun animals! 😊
This is an AWESOME video! Thank you! I’m definitely going to subscribe! I’m looking into finding a mule to adopt for a safe trail partner. I have two horses but they are very very old and while I still exercise them on the property, they are just not up to long trail rides. They’re mostly retired. 😅 I can’t wait to adopt one but do t know where to find them… do you have any recommendations? Thank you again and God bless!
That’s awesome! Mule’s can make such incredible trail animals! I hope you find one that’s a perfect fit for you 😊 It’s pretty challenging to find a good mule at a reasonable price these days, and mules are so smart that it can be a difficult road if you buy one that has been mistreated in the past. I would say your best bet would be local classifieds, and since you’ve had horse experience, you’ll be able to read the animal and the situation to make sure it will be a good fit for you 😊 I’m excited for you! God bless you as well!
I think the surefooted-ness of mules is THE factor that decides. I'd rather go safely through a mountain path than just fast and maybe roll downhill halfway through. XD Also, you forgot a factor that makes them better: The precious, pretty and long ears! Perfect for danger detection but I just adore an equine with larger ears.
Back east in Connecticut in the '60s, I worked for a Shade Growing Tobacco Company that grew about 1000 acres a year on 10 or 15 farms. One of the old-time managers loved mules and kept about 50+ on the home farm. They were used to cultivate between the rows because a mule walked straight and would not break the leaves. A horse's back end sways and damages the precious leaves. Off-season they sold the manure to a mushroom farm.
Wow, that’s interesting! My wife would LOVE to have 50 mules lol it’s amazing how many old-timers really prefer mules to horses- especially when there’s farm work to be done!
Thank you, and they really are pretty 😊 But you’re right, they are super spendy at auction, and it’s risky to buy them off classifieds, because a mistreated mule can be tough to get along with… we’ve been super fortunate with ours! 😊🙏🏼
For me, a person should get what they are attracted to. If you really love what you have, the bond and trust between the two of you will in the end be what gives one an enjoyable and safe trail ride.
That’s so true! Plus, if you’re attracted to horses (or mules or donkeys), and you’re happy when you see them in your pasture, that’s a huge plus! We love our mules AND our horse 😊 And my wife really wants a donkey too, so we might have a problem lol 🤦🏻♂️
Great video did you hear whether you won the film entry and I really don't have the passion to take care of such beautiful animals but to get around John Deere made the gator for me and Polaris made the 450 and we can take them just about any where lol loved the video thanks kray
Hahaha! Thats awesome, and they don’t require as much hay either! 😂🙌🏼 We actually DID win the film festival contest… we just found out today and we’re so excited! I’m so proud of Alyssa! Thank you for asking 😊
@@kraymississippi4388 it was the one that says “Wilderness Whitetails” with a picture of Clyde on the thumbnail picture 😊 The company is paying for us to go down to Denver to watch the film festival. It should be pretty fun!
Thank you! 😊 She has super pronounced striping for a mule, but she doesn’t have any zebra blood in her… the stripes actually come from a dun gene that present in donkeys and some horses 😊 Thank you for watching and taking time to leave a comment!
My grandfather born 1901, worked a farm in Kentucky with a pair of mules. By the time I came along he replaced mules with a Ferguson T-20. Working in the fields Granddad would time to time reflect fondly about his mules. He told me his method of how to treat your mules to get them to work all day. Granddad’s secret…Kindness.
This is one of my favorite comments I’ve ever seen! We don’t have the amount of experience that your grandfather had with his mules, but man, we TOTALLY AGREE! We have one mule in particular who was a little mistreated before we got her, and she is flourishing now that her peace and confidence are starting to grow. I think your granddad knew what he was talking about 😊
I agree with you sir I’ve got thirty brude mares that live in a canyon all year round and the colts I get are awesome but I’ve always wanted to try a mule
Thank you for the comments and the kind words! I bet those colts that are raised in the canyon are awesome, tough equines! Thats the kind of horse I would want to lead our string of mules! 😊🙌🏼
Thank you! We have the hats for sale on our website (mtnbuiltmerch.com), but I don’t think our supplier ships overseas 😕 I love that name for a cottage! Thank you for watching and for the nice comment though! Have a great day! 😊
Yeah and typically their panic if any is short lived and they don’t stop thinking and blindly react like a lot of horses do. Sure love our longears!! ☺️
@@LukeG.B. It’s ok I’m just curious because it’s a different culture. Like are the mountain shelters villages or towns or places people live in? Or is it for sport like climbing or camping or vacation?
@@yoeyyoey8937the shelters are managed only in the summer period by those who request from the Italian Alpine Club and last for 5 years after which the manager changes... they give hospitality to hikers and those who practice mountaineering at high altitude
It seems like I read or saw a story about either John Chism or Charles Goodnight. It seems one or the other preferred mules for the ride. Which I thought was odd due to both lived close to Commanche Territory and I would think needed the speed to get away.
That’s a good point! Maybe their tactic was to dive off into rough country where they couldn’t keep up with his mule 🤷🏻♂️😊 That’s pretty interesting though!
You guys are lucky in the USA as we don't have many mules in Australia thow I did buy one from a riding school and he was a character but got away one day and broke his leg had to put him down
As man! That’s such a bummer… I’m sure that was a rough experience to go through. But yes, we’re super fortunate to have quite a few mules on the market here in America. We sure love them!! 😊
Are mules shod the same as horses? I was looking at their charcteristics. It says that their hoves are smaller and harder, making it better for rocky areas. So with the hoves being harder, do they shoe them or not?
Yep you can shoe them the same as horses but your are correct, they typically don’t need shod. We have yet to run shoes on our dun mule. Our white mule we will put shoes on his fronts in the summer/fall if we are riding a lot on really sharp rocky stuff. And some outfitters we know will often run shoes on their mule just because they are constantly on rocky trails all season. But for the most part they don’t need them 😊👍🏼 (and yes they get so hard to trim 😂😂 their hooves are like steel haha)
A Donkey/Mule is more likely to defnend u against trouble. I remember heraing about a burro coming to his riders rescue when she was attacked by coyotes
Grandfather worked cattle around Bend Oregon, many years ago, said he always rode a mule at night, mule would stop at the edge of a gorge where a horse would take the fall.
I believe it! That’s awesome! I lived just outside of Bend for a while and trained horses there. It’s awesome country, I can’t believe how much it’s grown just in the last 10 years!!
When I was a little girl my friend had a neighbor who had a mule. We were able to crawl all over that mule. No bit, no nothing on and it just stood there. 😊 nice memory for this 72 year old. 😊
That’s so awesome! Good mules like that one are just amazing animals! 😊 Big ol’ sweet things 😊 Thank you for watching and taking time to leave a nice comment!
I was just wondering, I am a western Junkie. So I really don't know. Which would be better for a farmer? Mules or Oxen? Also could you cross your oxen with cows for a better breed? Just asking, it might be dumb question.
That’s a great question! And I think mules would be a better choice! They require a lot less food and water than oxen do. There were a lot of dead oxen on the trails west, but very few dead mules 😊
@@MTN_BUILT I also looked up Oxen, they were older steers who were castrated, who had been bread for work. I have a friend who is a trail rider, he will only ride a quarter mule. He was a hard sell, I know, he used to hate mules and tease people who rode them. I guess the laugh is on him.
@@outdoorlife5396 oh interesting! And that’s funny about your friend! It seems pretty common for people to poke fun at mules until they’ve spent some time with them 😂
Mules are incredible for riding in rough country! We don’t rope, and we live in some rough country, so we absolutely love our mules! Thanks for watching and taking time to leave a nice comment 😊
Most mules will do much better than most horses on wild range feed, so they're better when out there for a while. Found this (and other things) out leading a few packing trips for a summer camp.
@@MTN_BUILT It's probably clear to anyone who doesn't particularly value horsey-status, and prefers the blue-collar mule . They were indeed nice to partner with, the kids were another story- unbelievably pampered and even weird. The mules also tended to keep shy of them. We had with us 2 central African exchange students- very polite but stayed closer to me and the mules, astounded by the kids. All this was a long time ago. We've had several donkeys at home here over the years , If you treat them as you would an expensive horse they return the attention in spades!
@@MTN_BUILT Right! One lady-mule even took my kids on bare-back halter gallups and fence-jumps!! Her foal was a joy to play with too. She also knew how to rid herself of a neighbors kid she didn't like , with the Absolom trick of a full gallop under a low tree branch. Great laughs.
Mules inherit intellect from the donkey side, donkeys in fact are really smart they have great memory and they can get used to voice commands, they also memorize the way home no matter where you ride them to
i grew up with mules and donkey's in south florida and now have one donkey named Jenny and maybe someday get another mule and male donkey in my pasture in the great smokey mountains up here the locals ''hillbillies''hate donkeys and mules go figure and it hard to find a fierrier too but i got a old black guy that done it for years in east tennessee
That’s super interesting that they don’t like mules in that part of Tennessee! I would’ve thought they’d be a part of the culture around there. And that’s awesome that you have a donkey now 😊 My wife wants a donkey real bad! Lol
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A cowboy said "if you're trailering horses and wreck they will remember they were in a wreck, but a mule will remember who was driving
Hahaha! That’s a great way to put it 😂🙌🏼
i was told that from a vary close friend back in 1990 or about.. thank you for reminding me of this.
Very interesting. I can say horses are way more forgiving, can't say the same for mules
Interesting way of putting it. Horses are way more forgiving In most issues. Mules.... well ... not as much
I did the ride to Phantom Ranch in the Grand Canyon a couple years ago. What we were told was, you never cross a mule because it'll hold a grudge as long as it's alive and wait to pay you back at their convenience.
A guy I know used to raise horses and mules. He said a mule was ten times smarter than any horse ever dreamed of being. He trained one roping mule to work off voice commands. He also said you should never mistreat your mule, as it will never forget, and sooner or later, it will get even.
Yeah, they are super smart, and they are thoughtful vs reactive (for the most part). They’re really special animals and we’re really thankful for ours! 😊
I think your friend was right- if you mistreat them, it could take a loooong time to earn back their trust.
That's because of the donkey in it.. on all count's
@@stevenwaller3295True💯💯.
The Spanish Vaquero is the foundation of the cowboy 🤠
Slow, steady & reliable. Sounds like my Toyota. Great educational video for back country trips. l have heard many of the same pluses about mules over horses for many years. Thanks again
The Toyotas of the equine world 😊🙌🏼 That’s really a good comparison- not super flashy, but they are reliable, and the people who own them really appreciate them!
Thanks for watching and taking time to leave a nice comment!
I was in Yosemite, waiting for my brother nephew and son to get back from a high trail ride.
A mule was tied up in the staging area; only a piece of twine separated his back hooves from where I stood.
A woman pulled up on a bicycle pulling a bike trailer with her child. She parked the bike, with the trailer squarely behind the back hooves of the mule.
And the bike fell over with a clatter!
A horse would have kicked out at the noise and run a quarter mile away, and only then looked to see what made that noise.
The mule turned its head around; you could almost see the thought balloon "tourists!" and then calmly went back to its quiet contemplation while waiting to be ridden.
A mule is just more sensible than a horse.
Hahaha “tourists!” 😂 That made me laugh out loud! Thanks for sharing such a fun story. That’s a great example of a mule’s inclination to think things through before reacting! 😊🙌🏼
Which is probably why mules instead of horses are used for the rides down into the Grand Canyon.
@@ellenrittgers990 exactly! Those mules are amazing! 😊
@@MTN_BUILT I’ll say! They not only navigate narrow trails in a sheer cliff face, but do so carrying nervous riders, many of whom have had little or no experience in riding - amazing calmness and patience!
@@ellenrittgers990 that’s right! That’s the most amazing thing to me 😊 Pretty cool! We hope to go do that ride one day
My dad was a believer in horses. He had a team of two that he used in hauling logs when he was a teenager. His dad (my grandfather) was a believer in mules. The last two mules grandfather had were Kate and Jack (which he used as plow mules). Kate was a very gentle girl, while Jack had to be the meanest mule in all of Tennessee. I feel fortunate to be an individual who can, at age 68, handle a team of mules....although I haven't done it since I was 12.
That’s really cool. They definitely both have their strong points 😊 I just feel fortunate to get to have equines of any kind here on our little property! The mules seem to be perfect for the kind of riding we do though 😊
I remember the Grand Canyon Mules. As a kid in the 1970s, we went on that trail ride every year from 1974 to 1979. There was a steel gray mule with black legs, mane, tail and mascara named Bellamy. That mule took one look at me and snorted EACH YEAR then proceeded to completely ignore anything I asked him to do and just went along on his merry way. There used to be a couple of vista points for taking photographs and I never got to stop no matter what- he just kept going. Apparently he was in his 20s at that time, so well over twice my age and didn't think some brat had any need to stop when he knew his feed bag was at the bottom of the trail.
Haha! 😂 That’s awesome that you got to do that ride so many times. And that’s super cool that you got to ride the same mule each time!
Yeah, it seems like those mules make there living by not varying from the course- at all! lol Hopefully you at least got a picture of the experience somewhere, even though Bellamy wouldn’t let you stop along the trail 😊
I hiked into the Grand Canyon right behind the pack mule train. I never did catch up to them.
He wasn’t making the hike because he wanted to, he was going because you wanted to. He’d seen it all before and it wasn’t in his interest to stop. Sounds like a great trip anyway.
The Spanish Vaquero is the foundation of the cowboy 🤠
I was hiking down the trail at Grand Canyon and the rules of the trail were to give mules the right of way. I was standing off to the side as the mules passed and one of them stumbled. I almost said to the rider "you got Old Clumsy" but I didn't think he would appreciate it.
I like people who don't horse around. Over 100 years ago our family had two legendary matched mules, Jake and Jehu, who were amazing working animals well into their teens. My grandfather said if a horse gets its hoof caught in a fence it will thrash its hoof off. A mule will wait for help. Great vid. There is no fool who rides a mule.
That’s awesome! I love seeing matched working mules 😊 They’re special animals.
And I like your saying, “there’s no fool who rides a mule.” 😊🙌🏼
I totally agree. People say mules are dumb.they are smarter than their owners-riders
The Spanish Vaquero is the foundation of the cowboy 🤠
Ok ok we get it!!
I’m not really experienced in the equine industry, but i’ve always wanted a mule. Thanks for posting these to help me learn more about these guys 🙁 they’re great
You are welcome!! Mules are pretty awesome ☺️
You need to add to your list, The best reason to ride a mule is the ride, the smooth gate. They are so comfortable to ride. It is more of a glide than a ride. I can ride all day on a mule and not get sore. The trot is softer, the gallop is shorter and needs some getting use to but the fast walk of a mule can't be beat. I miss my mule.
I love it when they hit that fast walk and stride out! ☺️☺️☺️
Everyone made fun of my jack donkey being only 48 inches, saying he would never breed my morgan. One morning in the dim fog, the sun just coming up, something was doing wind sprints in my pasture. Upon investigation, there was my little mule soaking wet from birth. He raced from one end of the pasture and back. He didnt care about leaving his mom. She didnt care either. I named him Zoomer. He would be 23 years old now. He just came up to the house for a fig newton.
One thing about mules...if they know you are going riding, they will load 6 or 7 times into the trailer, by thenselves, waiting for the stupid horse to get in. ❤❤❤
Haha! Thats awesome! 😂🙌🏼 And zoomed sounds like the perfect name! We hope to have ours for as long as you’ve had zoomed… we’ve only had ours for 3 years, and we absolutely love them- I can only imagine the bond you’ve formed with yours!
The Spanish Vaquero is the foundation of the cowboy 🤠
I am a mule lover and loved using them . I am 82 and have hung up my spurs but I have my memoried
That’s awesome! I bet you have some amazing memories… hopefully we’ll have as many years with mules as you did 😊 Thank you for watching and taking time to leave a comment 😊
I’m a carriage driver and my dream team has always been a pair of mini mules!
I am too old now but I always loved and enjoyed training both.
The Spanish Vaquero is the foundation of the cowboy 🤠
Fantastic video with much common sense. My father was a mule man in the sixties and seventies , everything you have said is spot on target. Thank you for sharing. Mikel
Awesome! Thank you so much for taking time to watch and for leaving such a nice comment! We really appreciate it 😊🙏🏼
Mules along with draft horses, are under appreciated. You need to be patient and kind with a mule though. Unlike a horse, you can’t just bully them. It’s a more partnership oriented relationship.
I think you are SPOT ON! I think it was a horseman named Tom Dorrance who said, “You have to treat a mule the way you should treat a horse.” 😊
why be mean to a stubborn jack ass lolol
You can have that same relationship with horses.
@MTN_BUILT wow well said
I’ve more horse experience (virtually) as a grandma of a barrel racer. However one of our horse friends took me on a trail ride on her mule. Unbelievably comfortable and secure. The mule had ideas of her own. It responded to correction. I fondly remember the vertical climbs it made so sure footed. Amazing animal! If I were ever to have enough property I would definitely invest in a mule.
Oh that’s so cool! Yeah, a good mule is super fun to ride in rough country like you’re explaining 😊 Good horses are sure fun too, though- especially for people who like to go fast, like your granddaughter! 😊 Hopefully she has a great spring and summer barrel racing! Have fun watching 😊
Hi new subscriber here, I have three horses and a miniature horse and donkey. I am very interested in getting a mule for my wife who is a novice but from watching your videos we’re convinced a mule would be a great fit for her, now to find one. Take care
That’s fantastic! 😊 Sounds like you guys already have an awesome herd, and a good mule would be a great addition!
You probably already know this from your time with horses, but just be sure that her mule is a GOOD mule- mules that have been mistreated can be tough to get along with. I hope you find a great one, because they’re absolutely awesome animals 😊
Thanks for watching and taking time to leave such a fun comment! I’m excited for you guys! Don’t ever hesitate to reach out if you have any questions- I think our email is on our channel homepage (if not, I’ll put it up there in just a minute) 😊
You are so lucky, I have been around horses and donkeys since age 4 and I'm 66 now. I live in the UK and one thing I have always wanted was to ride or own a mule. I know they are calmer, stronger, cleverer but in all those years I have never seen or met a mule. We just dont have them here, I watch one channel, Modern History about Knights and Medieval life and horses, and Jason whose channel it is, had to import his "Mule with no name" from Europe because there were none here. I would love one. You have the best possible life in my opinion. I would give my back teeth to live where you do❤ I really want to do some long rides into the Scottish Highlands which is where I come from and, we do have our very own sturdy, sure footed mountain machines in the Highland pony which is a fantastic breed, used for packs, pony trekking, carrying deer from shoots off the mountain and are, my favourite breed and are especially great if cross bred with say, a Thoroughbred for endurance riding competitively. I know Highland ponies who would be excellent for endurance as is. However, I have always had a "thing" about mules and would love to see the outcome of a Highland/donkey cross as Highlands are typically around 14.2 hh and, I think the outcome would be very hardy and solid as both donkey's and Highlands have similar bone density and all round hardyness. My sister is trying to adopt a couple of Argentinian Ciarolla (I'm not sure of the name but they were brought over for breeding polo ponies and didn't make the grade so she's trying to rescue them) what I have read of this indigenous Argentinian breed is that its hardy, sure footed and ticks all the boxes as mules and Highlands do. I will subscribe for any tips etc because I'm sure theres lots of cross over despite the absence of mules here. To address anyone who has seen donkey/pony crosses here in the UK, I know it happens but its few and far between and we never get larger mules like the 14-15 hands ones you seem to have over there.
Well I hope you get to be around one some time 😊🙏🏼 The highland horse sounds great, and I love your ideas of a highland/donkey cross- I think that would make an amazing mule! 😊
One fun thing about starting this RUclips channel is getting to hear about other mountain equines that people enjoy. It sounds like highlands and the Argentinian breed that your sister is trying to adopt are awesome animals too 😊🙌🏼
Thanks for watching and leaving such a fun comment- I hope you get to spend some time around mules some day- they’re sure fun animals! Until then, enjoy your awesome highlands! 😊
Because of how smart mules, they are NOT for everyone. Patients and consistency are the key. As loyal as your dog when you establish a relationship with them. Trust worthy and self preservation, they will keep themselves safe and you.
“A horse will let you be the boss, a mule wants to see your resume’.” I found this several years back and it’s true and Mules will always be checking up on that resume’. Most lovable, kind, animal I’ve ever owned. Honor them and enjoy! ❤
This is PERFECTLY stated! 😊🙌🏼 I love everything about this comment.
I want everyone to get to enjoy mules like we do, but I always get a little nervous when someone says, “I watched your videos and now I want to get a mule!”
Watch those ears they will point things out you mite have missed
That’s so true! They’ll point to deer, elk, people… a lot of things I would miss! 😊
We have friends that have mules and used to be outfitters here in Montana. We were elk hunting and my friend said, if he stops on his own, get your binos up. Sure as shit, every time the mules would stop, there were elk. I shot a good bull on the second day and while we were taking care of it, one of the mules starting gnawing on a sawed off elk leg. Tossing it around and playing with it. I said hey Marv, your mule found a toy. He said, huh, I've never seen him do that before.
The Spanish Vaquero is the foundation of the cowboy 🤠
My dad was born in 1902 and worked teams into the 1940's. He preferred mules. Said they were calmer than horses. They also replaced horses with mules pulling the carriage rides in the Feench Quarter. Better suited to the task in the heat and commotion.
That’s super cool! I really admire teamsters… working together with those big animals is so awesome! 😊 Thank you for sharing!
Do not forget reason #6. Mules are awesome babysitters. I was raised by a mule. RIP Jerry the white jack.
Aw that’s awesome! Mule’s that take care of kids deserve a special place in heaven… it sounds like Jerry was a special one 😊
Wow, I guess they need to be super smart to manage the nappy change without opposable thumbs…
- that sounds lovely, I once was told of an Alsation minding a toddler and retrieving it utmost carefully if she had walked off too far
I am 5 ft tall, and think a mule would definitely suit smaller riders like me. Also, the narrower build of a mule would suit my short legs. Many years ago, I rode a mule down the Grand Canyon, and it is a treasured memory.
Oh that’s so cool! We would love to do that ride one day 😊 And yes, a mule like my dun mule would be perfect for someone like you! She’s 14.2, but she’s a strong bugger thankfully 😊
When I was a kid (that was the in later part of the last century) friends and I would go camping. My friends had horses but I had a mule. They were jealous when instead of using a saddle (even though I usually used a saddle) all I had to do to go for a ride was put a halter on him, grab his mane and swing myself up and ride bareback. I loved my mule.
Haha that’s awesome, he sounds like a great mule ☺️
Why is that
I just rode a Mule once on a trail ride. The horses followed in his footsteps in the mountains. He looked over the edge of the trail and just moved calmly a few steps away from the edge. A large bug flew into his head and he didn't spook. I told him when we got back to the barn that I didn't have any carrots but would bring some tomorrow. He remembered and came to the fence when he saw me the next day. He was not as comfortable a ride as the horse there because I have a bad back or I would have wanted to ride him more.
That’s really interesting! 😊 They’re smart and sure-footed, for sure. I’m sorry your back got sore, but I’m thankful you got to at least enjoy one ride! 😊
@@MTN_BUILT The mule didn't damage my back. I already had back problems.
So interesting! i'm intrigued for sure. looking to get my first ever equine next year for mountain trail riding and camping.
Are they really 'stubborn' or hard to train?
Oh awesome! Thats exactly what we use ours for and they’re a great fit 😊 Horses can be really good too though- it really depends on the specific animal.
They aren’t stubborn, like their reputation implies, but they do like to think things through. It sounds kind of funny, but if you apply a bunch of pressure to a mule while they’re processing something, they can be prone to just not moving. But if you let them solve the problem and just guide them through that process, they’ll take you wherever you want to go 😊
Raised mules for over 40 years. Same mule that wins reining classes wins hunter jumper classes and packs elk during hunt season. Nothing like mule hugs❤️
Oh wow! That’s so awesome!! We hope to be able to have that much mule experience in our lives 😊🙏🏼
They really are amazing animals! We’re sure thankful to have ours.
Thanks for watching and taking time to leave a comment 😊
@@MTN_BUILT They are worse than chips, can’t have just one. I am near 79 and just had 2 mule foals born this spring. Hoping for 2 more. Love your channel and dedication to our 4 sure footed equines.
I love mules and you did a great job reporting.
Thank you so much 😊 And yes, they’re such lovable animals- we’re so thankful for ours! 🙏🏼
Thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts. Very interesting to hear ❤
Thank you so much for watching and taking time to leave a nice comment! 😊
My mule was great in endurance riding! The Arabs may be the "Cadillac" of the endurance races... but my Mercedes beat them all!
I think mules are clever...they are too smart to hurt themselves, or let someone else do so!
That’s super cool that you used a mule in endurance competitions 😊🙌🏼 They really are incredible animals! We’re so thankful for our herd 🙏🏼
My friend and I got lost while trail riding on a super hot humid day. She rode an arabian that was soaking in sweat. My mule had just a little sweat behing his ears and under saddle pad, but very little. The mule could have gone another day or two. Super endurance. I think the best endurance mule would be out of a standardbred mare. Mine was out of a thorobred. He could go forever.
@@ThomasFlipse that’s super cool! Not that you got lost, but that your mule did so well lol It really seems like mules are just perfect for that kind of thing, and it sounds like you had a great one! 😊
Great information just curious to know what type of mule is the brown one thank you
Thank you! Her mom was a quarter horse and her dad was a mammoth Jack donkey. She gets those markings from the primitive dun gene ☺️
@@MTN_BUILT thank you God bless
@@robertgonzalez8419 God bless you as well!!
I read a book called "The Oregon Trail: A New American Journey" and it gives a lot of history of the mule and its role in the founding of the US and they really are so underappreciated in that aspect. They also give a lot of historical facts like how prized the Andalusian donkey was that exportation was prohibited by Spanish law because of the superior military benefit of mules to an army. George Washington wrote to King Charles of Spain asking to purchase breeding stock and King Charles sent Washington two jennies and a jack as a Royal Gift and Washington became the first American mule breeder.
That’s super cool! I’m reading a book right now called The Mule Alternative, and it’s incredible to see how popular mules were for settlers and military explorers.
Thanks for watching and taking time to leave such an interesting comment 😊
We played that in school in the 90’s
@nikicarrie4071 “You have died of Dysentery”
@ lolol 🤣🤣🤣
Best part of this video is your joy telling us about your horse and mules.
Thank you! We definitely love them 😊😊
Incredibly intelligent animals.
Si/Fi writer Robert Heinlein wrote several of his books with mules in the exploring of Space ..
Wow, that’s interesting! And yeah, they really are smart! I’m pretty sure mine is smarter than I am a lot of the time 😊
@@MTN_BUILT LOL ….
Heinlein, Lazarus Long, from Methusla's Children, and more...
Mule,...there was 'the Mule', character became a villain in Foundation series, Asimov? These would make good winter reading material. Have a blessed night everyone @MTN_BUILT
My grandpa always bred his work horses to get mules. He claimed a mule could go farther on less feed and be sure footed while doing it. My dad did the breeding when he was a kid. Apparently there was a high spot and a low spot involved. Always wanted to ride a mule. I remember seeing 3 or 4 guys bust out of the woods in the Black Hills with some beautiful mules looked like they were having a lot of fun.
Haha that’s awesome!! Thanks for sharing ☺️
Wow, what a great VIDEO! Thanks for showing. John P.
Thank you so much for watching and taking time to leave such a nice comment! We appreciate it! 😊
I really like the mules!!!
Thank you! We’re so thankful for them 😊🙏🏼
Hi, I was just wondering if a mule would fit me. I'm a big guy, 6' 4" 250ibs in shape, not fat. We were going to start looking for a draft/horse cross, but I like the mule traits and would consider one if it could hold my weight ? Thank you, and great video
Definitely! And they make draft cross mules too which would be so perfect for you! ☺️ either way a draft cross horse or a draft cross mule, just find something with a good easy going mindset. You can train the other things but it’s hard to train them to be chill. Good luck!! ☺️
I have always wanted to own a horse but I have been watching videos about riding mules and it really makes me want to try riding a mule. This is the kind of riding I would like because it is slow and easy.
We sure like ours! We’re just like you- slow and easy is just how we like it 😊
If you get a good mule, you won’t regret it… just make sure you get one that’s been treated well and doesn’t have a bunch of bad habits. The tough ones take someone with a lot of experience to change 😊
Either way, I hope you find the perfect equine for your goals! They’re sure fun animals! 😊
This is an AWESOME video! Thank you! I’m definitely going to subscribe! I’m looking into finding a mule to adopt for a safe trail partner. I have two horses but they are very very old and while I still exercise them on the property, they are just not up to long trail rides. They’re mostly retired. 😅
I can’t wait to adopt one but do t know where to find them… do you have any recommendations? Thank you again and God bless!
That’s awesome! Mule’s can make such incredible trail animals! I hope you find one that’s a perfect fit for you 😊
It’s pretty challenging to find a good mule at a reasonable price these days, and mules are so smart that it can be a difficult road if you buy one that has been mistreated in the past. I would say your best bet would be local classifieds, and since you’ve had horse experience, you’ll be able to read the animal and the situation to make sure it will be a good fit for you 😊
I’m excited for you! God bless you as well!
I'm a Muleowner and i love this special, intelligent Animals! Especially my very good Boy Josh! I agree with all you sayed! ❤
Awesome! They really are amazing animals 😊 We are SO THANKFUL for our little herd 🙏🏼 Give your boy Josh some scratches from us!
Will do! 😊@@MTN_BUILT
I think the surefooted-ness of mules is THE factor that decides.
I'd rather go safely through a mountain path than just fast and maybe roll downhill halfway through. XD
Also, you forgot a factor that makes them better: The precious, pretty and long ears! Perfect for danger detection but I just adore an equine with larger ears.
Haha! That’s such a great point! When those long ears get to floppin’, I just can’t help but smile 😊
@@MTN_BUILT Exactly! 🥰
Thank you, a very interesting introduction to mules, cheers
Thank you!! ☺️
Back east in Connecticut in the '60s, I worked for a Shade Growing Tobacco Company that grew about 1000 acres a year on 10 or 15 farms. One of the old-time managers loved mules and kept about 50+ on the home farm. They were used to cultivate between the rows because a mule walked straight and would not break the leaves. A horse's back end sways and damages the precious leaves. Off-season they sold the manure to a mushroom farm.
Wow, that’s interesting! My wife would LOVE to have 50 mules lol it’s amazing how many old-timers really prefer mules to horses- especially when there’s farm work to be done!
Wow 50 miles!!!! They are so cute
They are so cute and sweet ❤❤
Love this!
Thank you! They’re such amazing animals! 😊 We’re sure thankful for ours 🙏🏼
I like your explanation, plus they are beautiful. But a fairly good one is expensive at auction.
Thank you, and they really are pretty 😊
But you’re right, they are super spendy at auction, and it’s risky to buy them off classifieds, because a mistreated mule can be tough to get along with… we’ve been super fortunate with ours! 😊🙏🏼
For me, a person should get what they are attracted to. If you really love what you have, the bond and trust between the two of you will in the end be what gives one an enjoyable and safe trail ride.
That’s so true! Plus, if you’re attracted to horses (or mules or donkeys), and you’re happy when you see them in your pasture, that’s a huge plus! We love our mules AND our horse 😊 And my wife really wants a donkey too, so we might have a problem lol 🤦🏻♂️
@@MTN_BUILT Good point. A donkey would be a cool addition.
@@garythurber9867 oh gosh! Don’t encourage her! 😂
Thank you for making this video, I was raised with mules and to this day I don't really care for horses, then again I don't really like cats either...
Haha thank you for taking the time to watch! We feel the same 😂😂
Mules are really cool and I do like your videos
They are! We sure like them anyways haha
Good video. I didn't know anything about mules.
Thank you for watching and taking time to leave a nice comment. I really appreciate it! 😊🙌🏼
Thanks for pointing out the horse in the picture. I might have missed that!
The thumbnail isn’t actually a horse… But maybe that’s not the picture you’re talking about lol
My horses are raised in some rough mountains and they serve me well
Horses are awesome too! ☺️
Great video did you hear whether you won the film entry and I really don't have the passion to take care of such beautiful animals but to get around John Deere made the gator for me and Polaris made the 450 and we can take them just about any where lol loved the video thanks kray
Hahaha! Thats awesome, and they don’t require as much hay either! 😂🙌🏼
We actually DID win the film festival contest… we just found out today and we’re so excited! I’m so proud of Alyssa! Thank you for asking 😊
@@MTN_BUILT that's awesome what did you win and are you going to show us the film or have we already seen it thanks kray
@@kraymississippi4388 it was the one that says “Wilderness Whitetails” with a picture of Clyde on the thumbnail picture 😊 The company is paying for us to go down to Denver to watch the film festival. It should be pretty fun!
@@MTN_BUILT yes I remember and yeah have a good time thanks kray
@@kraymississippi4388 thank you 😊
Great video!
Thank you! That was a fun one to make… we always love bragging on mules 😊🙌🏼
@@MTN_BUILT as you should they are both gorgeous
@@bobbiemayers354 thank you ☺️
So do you still have your little spotted mule filly?
Yes of course ☺️ I would have to check the date but this video may have been posted before we had her. 🙂
Sir I noticed had horizonal stripes on a couple just above the hooves. is that a little zebra in them very nice
Thank you! 😊 She has super pronounced striping for a mule, but she doesn’t have any zebra blood in her… the stripes actually come from a dun gene that present in donkeys and some horses 😊 Thank you for watching and taking time to leave a comment!
My grandfather born 1901, worked a farm in Kentucky with a pair of mules. By the time I came along he replaced mules with a Ferguson T-20. Working in the fields Granddad would time to time reflect fondly about his mules. He told me his method of how to treat your mules to get them to work all day. Granddad’s secret…Kindness.
This is one of my favorite comments I’ve ever seen! We don’t have the amount of experience that your grandfather had with his mules, but man, we TOTALLY AGREE! We have one mule in particular who was a little mistreated before we got her, and she is flourishing now that her peace and confidence are starting to grow. I think your granddad knew what he was talking about 😊
I agree with you sir I’ve got thirty brude mares that live in a canyon all year round and the colts I get are awesome but I’ve always wanted to try a mule
Thank you for the comments and the kind words! I bet those colts that are raised in the canyon are awesome, tough equines! Thats the kind of horse I would want to lead our string of mules! 😊🙌🏼
Excellent presentation, thanks.
Thank you for watching and taking time to leave a nice comment! We appreciate it 😊
i love your cap, i live in a cottage in Ireland called Hare Cottage .......any chance of getting the patch? :-) Annie
Thank you! We have the hats for sale on our website (mtnbuiltmerch.com), but I don’t think our supplier ships overseas 😕 I love that name for a cottage! Thank you for watching and for the nice comment though! Have a great day! 😊
And then there's the practical jokes. A mule has a sense of humor, and USES it.
Hahaha! It’s so true! We love it when ours get in a goofy mood- they’re characters, for sure! 😂
Mules are awesome. They dont panic like horses do when gets in a bind
Yeah and typically their panic if any is short lived and they don’t stop thinking and blindly react like a lot of horses do. Sure love our longears!! ☺️
Thanks from Chicago
Thank you for watching! 😊
where I live in the Piedmont Alps the mules are used to supply the mountain refuges at high altitude
LukeG.B. What are the mountain refuges?
@@yoeyyoey8937 Mountain shelter, sorry for my bad english
@@LukeG.B. It’s ok I’m just curious because it’s a different culture. Like are the mountain shelters villages or towns or places people live in? Or is it for sport like climbing or camping or vacation?
@@yoeyyoey8937the shelters are managed only in the summer period by those who request from the Italian Alpine Club and last for 5 years after which the manager changes... they give hospitality to hikers and those who practice mountaineering at high altitude
It seems like I read or saw a story about either John Chism or Charles Goodnight. It seems one or the other preferred mules for the ride. Which I thought was odd due to both lived close to Commanche Territory and I would think needed the speed to get away.
That’s a good point! Maybe their tactic was to dive off into rough country where they couldn’t keep up with his mule 🤷🏻♂️😊 That’s pretty interesting though!
@@MTN_BUILT Thanks
I like this guy. No nonsense.
Thank you 😊
You guys are lucky in the USA as we don't have many mules in Australia thow I did buy one from a riding school and he was a character but got away one day and broke his leg had to put him down
As man! That’s such a bummer… I’m sure that was a rough experience to go through.
But yes, we’re super fortunate to have quite a few mules on the market here in America. We sure love them!! 😊
What part of the mountain states are you in? Im wanting a mountain/trail riding mule.
We’re in Idaho, and we love it here! I hope you can get one- they’ve added a lot of value to our lives, for sure 😊
Are mules shod the same as horses? I was looking at their charcteristics. It says that their hoves are smaller and harder, making it better for rocky areas. So with the hoves being harder, do they shoe them or not?
Yep you can shoe them the same as horses but your are correct, they typically don’t need shod. We have yet to run shoes on our dun mule. Our white mule we will put shoes on his fronts in the summer/fall if we are riding a lot on really sharp rocky stuff. And some outfitters we know will often run shoes on their mule just because they are constantly on rocky trails all season. But for the most part they don’t need them 😊👍🏼 (and yes they get so hard to trim 😂😂 their hooves are like steel haha)
I've been told that a mule can do everything a horse can do and then more. I believe that, but I love them both.
They are both great and both have their strengths and weaknesses for sure! ☺️
Can they run for long distances?
Yeah! They’re not near as fast as a horse in a sprint, but they can cover long distances really well
Horses are best! ❤ ❤ ❤
We love our horse too! 😊 A good horse is an incredible animal, and they definitely have their place 😊
I’m glad to see the mule get some respect.
They’re such incredible animals 😊 We’re really thankful for ours 🙏🏼
TOTALLY RIGHT+
Thank you! 😊 We appreciate you taking time to watch and leaving such a nice comment!
Nice looking mules!
Thank you! We’re sure thankful for them 😊🙏🏼
cool, love them!
Us too! They’re incredible animals 😊
Love watching this content
Thank you so much! We’re having a blast learning how to make it 😊
This was terrific!
Thank you! We LOOOVE talking about mules! They’re amazing animals 😊🙌🏼
Great for promoting Mules
Thank you! That was the goal 😊 Gotta share the longear love!
A Donkey/Mule is more likely to defnend u against trouble. I remember heraing about a burro coming to his riders rescue when she was attacked by coyotes
Oh wow! That’s really cool! I believe it, because donkeys sure don’t like predators! 😊
Grandfather worked cattle around Bend Oregon, many years ago, said he always rode a mule at night, mule would stop at the edge of a gorge where a horse would take the fall.
I believe it! That’s awesome! I lived just outside of Bend for a while and trained horses there. It’s awesome country, I can’t believe how much it’s grown just in the last 10 years!!
@@MTN_BUILT You must be aquatinted with Eby Rd, that was grandfathers home.
#1 quality, their narrower ribcage makes you less saddle sore!
One of mine figured out how to slither under the paddock poles....
Love horses too but mules are just so much smarter....
@@markloubser2433 haha I don’t doubt they did! 😂👍🏼 I swear they watch you open panels, untie their lead rope etc haha
Is your dog a GWP or a pointing Griffon?
GWP ☺️
When I was a little girl my friend had a neighbor who had a mule. We were able to crawl all over that mule. No bit, no nothing on and it just stood there. 😊 nice memory for this 72 year old. 😊
That’s so awesome! Good mules like that one are just amazing animals! 😊 Big ol’ sweet things 😊
Thank you for watching and taking time to leave a nice comment!
You just earned a sub brother
Awesome! Thank you so much for watching! 😊🙌🏼
Mules, the animal that built mexico! I had a mule named cleta that was trained to pull our hog hunt wagon cart.
That’s awesome! And you have the best profile picture I’ve ever seen! 😂🙌🏼
A mule is very protective. When the gang year trust
I was just wondering, I am a western Junkie. So I really don't know. Which would be better for a farmer? Mules or Oxen? Also could you cross your oxen with cows for a better breed? Just asking, it might be dumb question.
That’s a great question! And I think mules would be a better choice! They require a lot less food and water than oxen do. There were a lot of dead oxen on the trails west, but very few dead mules 😊
@@MTN_BUILT I also looked up Oxen, they were older steers who were castrated, who had been bread for work. I have a friend who is a trail rider, he will only ride a quarter mule. He was a hard sell, I know, he used to hate mules and tease people who rode them. I guess the laugh is on him.
@@outdoorlife5396 oh interesting!
And that’s funny about your friend! It seems pretty common for people to poke fun at mules until they’ve spent some time with them 😂
An ox is a castrated bull. It will be somehow difficult to cross it with cows.😂
@@luismariagomezdearanda5319 If you had read through, you would have found that I already looked it up 2 months ago
Sounds just like my XJ. Perfect.
lol I love it! I’d take an XJ too 😊
@@MTN_BUILT Both is good!
Por algo lo utiliza el ejercito en montañas. El andar es mas parejo y estable ..
Yes! That’s a great point! 😊🙌🏼
What about price to buy? Are they cheaper than horses?
I wish they were, but mules are generally at least as expensive as horses. 😕
The Spanish Vaquero is the foundation of the cowboy 🤠
Yes! They were incredible horsemen 😊
Mules are the best!
They’re such incredible animals! 😊🙌🏼
Mules are so adorable.
They’re so awesome! 😊
Kit Carson used mules. They’re smart.
That’s right! I like his style 😊 They really are awesome animals!
Wow, lots of cowboys in USA, don't want a horse, mule will out work anyday! John P.
Mules are incredible for riding in rough country!
We don’t rope, and we live in some rough country, so we absolutely love our mules!
Thanks for watching and taking time to leave a nice comment 😊
You make me want to get a mule and I don’t even ride or do any farm work or anything lol
Haha! That’s awesome! Mission accomplished 😊🙌🏼
Most mules will do much better than most horses on wild range feed, so they're better when out there for a while. Found this (and other things) out leading a few packing trips for a summer camp.
That’s awesome, and we’ve noticed the same thing 😊 That sounds like a really fun experience!
@@MTN_BUILT It's probably clear to anyone who doesn't particularly value horsey-status, and prefers the blue-collar mule . They were indeed nice to partner with, the kids were another story- unbelievably pampered and even weird. The mules also tended to keep shy of them. We had with us 2 central African exchange students- very polite but stayed closer to me and the mules, astounded by the kids. All this was a long time ago. We've had several donkeys at home here over the years , If you treat them as you would an expensive horse they return the attention in spades!
@@יונתןזנטון we’ve experienced the exact same thing! One of our favorite quotes is, “you HAVE to treat a mule the way you SHOULD treat a horse.” 😊
@@MTN_BUILT Right! One lady-mule even took my kids on bare-back halter gallups and fence-jumps!! Her foal was a joy to play with too. She also knew how to rid herself of a neighbors kid she didn't like , with the Absolom trick of a full gallop under a low tree branch. Great laughs.
Mules inherit intellect from the donkey side, donkeys in fact are really smart they have great memory and they can get used to voice commands, they also memorize the way home no matter where you ride them to
I believe it! Mules are so incredibly smart and it makes alot of sense that it comes from the donkey 😊
i grew up with mules and donkey's in south florida and now have one donkey named Jenny and maybe someday get another mule and male donkey in my pasture in the great smokey mountains up here the locals ''hillbillies''hate donkeys and mules go figure and it hard to find a fierrier too but i got a old black guy that done it for years in east tennessee
That’s super interesting that they don’t like mules in that part of Tennessee! I would’ve thought they’d be a part of the culture around there.
And that’s awesome that you have a donkey now 😊 My wife wants a donkey real bad! Lol