Navigating the initial stages of learning, whether in university or when embarking on a new skill like horse training, can present significant challenges. The key to overcoming these hurdles often lies not in mere memorization, but in developing a deep, genuine understanding of the subject matter. This involves a continuous process of questioning, seeking clarity on unfamiliar terms or concepts, and being willing to backtrack and rebuild foundational knowledge. For those starting their journey in horse training, this approach is equally vital. Understanding the multifaceted nature of horses—viewing them through various dimensions and lenses—can be transformative, much like discovering effective study techniques unlocked academic success. This curated list of essential horse training resources aims to inspire a deeper dive into understanding your equine partner, turning every moment, even during mundane tasks or commutes, into a valuable learning opportunity.
1. Great Meaningful Horse Stories
These narratives go beyond simple “how-to” guides, offering profound insights into the human-equine relationship. Authors share their personal journeys, detailing how their understanding and approach to horses evolved over time. Through their experiences, readers gain valuable life lessons that can shift perspectives and open hearts to new possibilities.
Mark Rashid Books (All of Them): Especially beginning with “Considering the Horse,” these are best consumed in order. Rashid chronicles his life with horses, illustrating the evolution of his understanding and techniques. His audiobooks are particularly engaging, transforming travel time into a rich learning experience. Upon finishing “Considering the Horse,” the lingering presence of the “old man” in your thoughts serves as a constant, wise observer during your work with horses.
Buck Brannaman/William Reynolds – Faraway Horses: Inspired by the documentary “Buck,” this book delves deeper into Brannaman’s life. It’s a poignant and at times difficult read, recounting his traumatic childhood. However, the book offers profound insights into trauma and healing, resonating deeply when working with horses that carry their own histories of distress. The memory of his foster father offering him purpose through work serves as a powerful reminder of how support can aid a struggling spirit, whether human or equine.
2. The Training Books
These resources focus specifically on the principles and concepts of horse training, offering practical knowledge for immediate application.
Ross Jacobs – Essence of Good Horsemanship: While not a step-by-step manual, this collection of short essays is a profoundly thought-provoking “training book.” Jacobs explores the idea that “every behavior starts with a thought,” a concept that shifted the author’s approach from merely training horses to perform tasks to engaging them in dialogue, enabling them to learn willingly and successfully. This book is a rich source of insights, rewarding rereading, though it may challenge some readers to confront their own role in their horse’s behavior. A basic understanding of training concepts, such as pressure and release, is recommended before diving in.
Karen Pryor – Don’t Shoot the Dog: Though not exclusively about horse training, this book brilliantly elucidates the principles of behavior modification and “untraining” unwanted behaviors. Pryor’s clear explanations and engaging examples illuminate training concepts effectively. While some may misinterpret the book’s stance on pressure training, Pryor primarily highlights the potential negative outcomes if pressure is applied without sufficient understanding and skill. This is essential knowledge for anyone employing pressure-based methods. The book offers a superb introduction to behavior influence with fascinating examples.
3. The Science Books
For those intrigued by the underlying scientific principles of equine behavior and training, this section offers a gateway to a deeper, evidence-based understanding.
Martin Black/Stephen Peters – Evidence Based Horsemanship: Highly recommended, particularly the DVD version, which offers more comprehensive information and clearer graphics illustrating equine learning processes and coping mechanisms.
Daniel Mills/Kathryn Nankervis – Equine Behavior: Principles & Practice: This accessible science book guides readers from equine evolution and behavior to the intricacies of the neurological system and training mechanisms.
Paul McGreevy – Equine Behavior: A Guide for Veterinarians & Equine Scientists: This text builds upon Mills and Nankervis’s work, offering more specialized scientific language. An online dictionary can assist in clarifying terms, ensuring a thorough understanding.
Paul McGreevy/Andrew McLean – Equitation Science: While exceptionally informative, this book is densely written and best suited for those with a strong background in equitation science. It is a valuable resource for pinpointing research areas, but readers may benefit from consulting the other recommended science books first to build a foundational understanding.
4. Biomechanics
Understanding how a horse’s physical structure influences its behavior, and vice versa, is crucial for effective training.
Gillian Higgins – Posture and Performance: Higgins, known for her “Horses Inside Out” concept involving painting anatomical diagrams on horses, provides an engrossing exploration of equine anatomy, function, and biomechanics. This book skillfully combines anatomical knowledge with practical exercises to enhance performance.
Marijke de Jong – Introduction to Straightness Training (Free eBook): This introductory guide addresses the natural asymmetry in horses, which significantly impacts their behavior and training. Understanding this concept can demystify common training frustrations and provide clarity on why horses exhibit certain tendencies, such as falling inward or outward during maneuvers. Introduction to Straightness Training
5. Books with Applicable Training Insights
These selections, while not exclusively focused on horses, offer valuable principles transferable to equine training.
Charles Duhigg – The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business: This audiobook explores habit formation, directly applicable to training horses and addressing problematic behaviors. It offers insights into identifying triggers for equine evasions and anxieties, as well as self-reflection on personal habits.
Catherine Pittman/Elizabeth Karle – Rewire Your Anxious Brain: A powerful resource for understanding fear, anxiety, and panic in both humans and horses through neuroscience. The book provides practical strategies for leveraging this knowledge to the advantage of both trainer and equine.
6. Understanding Your Human-ness
Recognizing how human instincts and behaviors can impact horses is key to building a more comfortable and trusting relationship.
Patricia McConnell – On the Other End of the Leash: While an expert in dog behavior, McConnell’s work offers a compelling look at human-animal interactions. She highlights how differences in species-specific needs can lead to misunderstandings, encouraging owners to adapt their behavior to be more “horse-friendly.” This book is filled with relatable anecdotes and heartwarming stories that foster a deeper respect for our animal companions. best liberty horse training books
Angela Duckworth – Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance: This inspirational book emphasizes the critical role of struggle and overcoming challenges in building inner strength and achieving significant goals. It encourages a shift in focus from acknowledging success to recognizing and valuing effort, offering a valuable perspective for both personal growth and equine training. prof beery’s horse training books
Carol Dweck – Mindset: The New Psychology of Success: Dweck introduces the concepts of fixed and growth mindsets. A fixed mindset, characterized by a fear of failure and judgment, can hinder progress. Conversely, a growth mindset, which views failure as feedback and embraces challenges, is essential for continuous learning and improvement—a vital quality when working with horses, who consistently provide feedback on your efforts. horse training books pdf
Robert Pool/Anders Ericsson – Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise: Drawing from Anders Ericsson’s research on expertise, this book explores how skills are developed, challenging the oversimplified notion of the “10,000-hour rule.” It reveals the importance of deliberate practice and struggle in achieving mastery, offering insights applicable to both human and equine learning processes. how to train a horse book
By engaging with these diverse resources, horse enthusiasts can cultivate a more profound understanding of equine behavior, refine their training techniques, and ultimately build stronger, more harmonious relationships with their horses.
