In the sprawling world of horse training, few names carry the weight of a distinct, branded philosophy like Dennis Reis. For decades, this American horseman has championed a method he calls “Universal Horsemanship,” a system built on the belief that any person can learn to “speak horse.” But who exactly is the Dennis Reis Horse Trainer, and how did his approach evolve from the rodeo circuit to a nationally recognized training system? This article explores the man, his methods, and the enduring impact he has had on countless horse-human partnerships across the country.
Reis’s journey is a classic tale of a life lived in the saddle. He began his career not in a quiet round pen, but in the electrifying world of rodeo, competing nationally and becoming a Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA) Gold Card member. His hands-on experience as a farrier and starting countless colts gave him a deep, practical understanding of equine behavior. However, it was this very experience that led him to seek a “better way” — a departure from the traditional methods of fear and mechanical restraint that were once the norm.
The Journey to a “Better Way”
Dennis Reis’s transition from a traditional cowboy to a proponent of natural horsemanship was gradual, born from a desire for a safer, more productive relationship with horses. He founded the Reis Ranch School of Universal Horsemanship in Penngrove, California, in 1985, creating a hub for his evolving philosophy. His mission became clear: to share age-old horsemanship methods based on communication and understanding, making them accessible to the everyday horse owner.
This new path moved away from intimidation and toward a partnership where the human learns to understand the horse’s true nature. Reis emphasizes that his techniques are not new but have been used by great horsemen and women throughout history. The goal is to teach the handler to speak the horse’s language, creating a safer and more reliable equine partner.
What is Universal Horsemanship? The Core Philosophy
At the heart of the Dennis Reis horse trainer brand is the “Universal Horsemanship” training system. It’s a structured, step-by-step curriculum designed to be non-discipline specific, meaning its principles apply whether you ride English or Western. The system is built on a foundation of ground school, round pen work, and mounted exercises that progressively build trust and communication between horse and rider.
The core idea is to replace fear with understanding. Reis’s method teaches owners how to direct a horse’s natural reactions into proper responses through a series of clear, consistent exercises. This approach, he argues, requires less time and puts less stress on the horse because it aligns with their innate language. The ultimate goal is to create a willing partner that responds out of trust, not coercion.
The Mentor Series: A Structured Path to Partnership
Universal Horsemanship is delivered through a curriculum known as the “Mentor Series,” which is broken down into four distinct levels.
- Freedom Course (Level One): Establishes the fundamentals of communication and safety.
- Awareness Course (Level Two): Builds on the foundation, enhancing the rider’s feel and the horse’s responsiveness.
- Movement Course (Level Three): Focuses on developing more advanced maneuvers and collection.
- Horseman Course (Level Four): Refines the partnership to the highest level of communication.
Each level is comprehensive, including classes in round penning, ground school, and mounted work, totaling sixteen individual classes to complete the full program.
The Dennis Reis Method in Action: Clinics and TV
For many years, Dennis Reis took his message on the road, conducting an extensive “No Dust Tour” and clinics across the United States. This hands-on approach allowed him to work with thousands of horses and their owners, troubleshooting real-world problems from trailer loading to bucking. His reach expanded significantly with his weekly show on RFD-TV, which has been airing since 2002 and brought the principles of Universal Horsemanship into living rooms nationwide.
His influence extends beyond the arena. Reis was the sponsor and author of the 2003 National Day of the Horse and the founder of the California Day of the Horse, demonstrating a deep commitment to celebrating the role of horses in American culture.
“The most effective trainers, like Dennis Reis, don’t just teach the horse; they empower the owner,” notes Dr. Eleanor Vance, a respected equine behaviorist. “His structured, repeatable system gives people a clear roadmap to follow, which builds confidence in the human. When the human is confident and clear, the horse becomes calm and willing. It’s a powerful cycle.”
Is the Dennis Reis Method Right for You?
The structured, step-by-step nature of Universal Horsemanship appeals to many horse owners who feel lost or overwhelmed. It provides a clear, progressive plan that can be applied to any horse, regardless of breed or background. Riders looking for a systematic approach to building a solid foundation with their horse will likely find great value in the Dennis Reis method.
However, like any training system, it may not be a perfect fit for everyone. Some equestrians may prefer a more flexible, less formulaic approach to their horsemanship journey. The best way to determine if this method is right for you is to explore the wealth of resources available, from his books and television shows to attending one of the Reis Ranch courses.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dennis Reis
What is Dennis Reis’s main training philosophy?
Dennis Reis’s philosophy is called Universal Horsemanship. It is a system based on teaching horse handlers to “speak the horse’s language” through a structured series of exercises, replacing fear-based methods with communication and trust to create a willing and safe partnership.
Where is Dennis Reis located?
Dennis Reis founded the Reis Ranch in Penngrove, Sonoma County, California, in 1985. He and his wife Deborah also operate the Reis River Ranch in Petaluma, California.
Is Dennis Reis a “natural horsemanship” trainer?
Yes, his methods fall under the umbrella of natural horsemanship. He focuses on understanding the horse’s nature and using communication tools that align with their instincts, moving away from traditional methods that often rely on mechanical force or intimidation.
What kind of experience does Dennis Reis have?
He has a diverse background that includes competing in the PRCA rodeo, working as a farrier, starting thousands of young horses, and hosting a national TV show on RFD-TV since 2002. He has been holding clinics at his ranch for over 40 years.
Does the Universal Horsemanship system work for all disciplines?
Yes, the system is designed to be non-breed and non-discipline specific. Its goal is to build a solid foundation of trust and communication that allows a horse and rider to excel in any discipline they choose, from trail riding to competition.
A Legacy of Communication
The story of Dennis Reis horse trainer is one of evolution—from the high-speed world of rodeo to the patient art of listening to the horse. His development of Universal Horsemanship has provided a clear, accessible pathway for countless owners seeking a deeper connection with their equine partners. By dedicating his life to sharing these methods, Reis has cemented his legacy as a trainer who didn’t just command horses, but sought to understand and communicate with them on their own terms.
