Horses Arabian

Does anyone have any recommendations for Natural horse training videos or DVDs? Hi- I would like to buy some natural horsemanship training videos. Does anyone have any good recommendations of trainers or DVDs?

How does one start their horse on natural horsemanship training? I am about to buy a three-year-old Arab/Andalusian cross. He's small, around 14.3. He is greenbroke, and I'm able to ride him, but he lacks all fundamentals and skills. He doesn't know proper leg commands, he weaves, he's "looky", etc. I would really like to train him myself using natural horsemanship. How does one begin natural horsemanship training? What are some fundamentals? What are the pros and cons of this method? Any other information on it would also be appreciated. Thank you.

What is a day like for a race horse? I am looking into adopting an ex-harness race horse and thought that it might be helpful to know what "normal" training they may have gone through - what their day may have been like on and around the track. What are some training methods, tools, philosophies? How does their prior training affect their ability to learn a new way? What are some precautions one should take in retraining an ex-race horse? Can you recommend a trainer specialized in natural horse training methods that is around the Madison, Wisconsin area?

Advice for Training my horse in Natural Horsemanship? I have an 8 year old Shetland/Quarter horse cross gelding he was around 5 or 6 when he was gelded and he is very annoying. If you do not whip/hit him, he always thinks he is in charge, biting, lashing out. I don;t hit him, pat him, and I'm as gentle as I can be. He is always in my space, and I can barely walk him in a straight line without being bitten. I would like to train him in the ways of Natural Horsemanship, but I need some advice. Can anyone help me?!

Should I stop training this horse and send him back to his owner? I have agreed to get rid of some bad habits this horse has developed and use the Natural Horsemanship training method. Trouble is, the owner doesn't understand this type of training and is complaining that I am spoiling his horse. I am not going to ride him until I get some ground respect. The owner is an older man and is set in the old cowboy way of "letting the horse know who's boss". He has some physical handicaps now and cannot train himself any more. I don't know how to tactfully ask him to let me do the job the way I see fit. He has already paid me for the job and I can't back out now. Our agreement was for me to train two of his horses if he builds the fence and round pen. Help? After reading all these wonderful suggestions, I feel that I must explain that this is my first time as a "paid" trainer. I did tell the owner that it would take me a while to get him trail ready (which is all he really wants anyway) but he cannot be tied without breaking everything or injuring himself so I wanted to work on that issue first. But I will now just ride him as asked and work on being tied and shying at the same time. You all are giving me very sound and valuable advice. Thank you......even those of you who may have been afraid of hurting feelings.

Can you ride a horse that has been trained using natural Horsemanship basically? I am looking at buying an 18 year old Arab Gelding that has been ridden for 13 years using natural horsemanship. I am an intermediate rider and do not know a thing about natural horsemanship! Can I still ride him using basic techniques that you would with any other horse? Or will the horse end up confused? Thanks :)

What do think of me as a horse trainer? What is your training method? Does anyone need help? Look here!? Hey everyone, I guess this can be sort of a forum. I just want everyone to explain their way with horses and comment on others' ways and my way. I would also like to see opinions on natural horse remedies (e.g. chaste berry oil). You can comment on other people's answers by editing yours, but please write EDIT: exactly like that. This is also to help people with horse training questions and for people with training problems. Please don't talk about health problems except if you are talking about natural remedies. Here's my way: "Do not conquer a horse's soul, work with it". I do something called dancing with horses. Me and the horses think and move as one and really show "oneness". I train completely naturally but I also work with bits. I also use whips- I never hurt the horse with it, I only use it as an extension of my arm to help convey body language. You must reveal yourself to the horse if you want the horse to reveal itself to you. Once both horse and rider have revealed together they have stepped onto the same path of trust and understanding each other as equals. You must live in the moment, think with the horse, be completely open, have no lies, trust, be calm, be balanced, and be be strong. Horses are creatures of dignity and once you have taken it away you have killed the soul of that horse. That is what I base my training off of. Horse training is communication through mental and physical openness, understanding, and equality. I have just starting researching into natural remedies that I will use when training horses or working with them. I will also have some on hand like clove oil which numbs a horse. I know how to make them but I plan on buying essential oils. Believe it or not you can get pretty much any essential oils or seeds from amazon.com! I also have a local drug store that sells many. Here are some, they aren't very accurate but say the main use: Chasteberry oil: Balances hormones-helps with mares in heat Clove oil: applied outside the body(only small amounts in mouth) and numb the horse Basil Leaf : helps with digestion and killing internal worms as well as being a mild sedative and insect repellent. Lavender: calming Those are just a few, I can add more if people are interested. You can ask me any questions at: nature2horses@hotmail.com I'd be happy to help anyone with questions about training horses or developing a relationship with a horse. as an equal, i didn't mean I wasn't the dominant one but that I treated the horse with respect. I am not against training aids but they should not be used to hurt a horse.

Does anyone here use natural training with their horses.? Hi all does any here use natural trainig methods with their horses. I use most of the time and i have just handled 2 new 2 yrs olds that were unhandled with great success i also tie my own pressure halters and i use the halters to educate with pressure and release and approach and retreat both were leading out the same day and are approachable to catch and bring in ,tie up both are learning to yield and respecting my space space .In ref to feeding they are both eating feed now i put a little apple juice in and away they chewed . I will back the both of them next year using natural training its so nice not to have rude or problem horses and they enjoy what they do and so do i .best wishes to all .

Try #2: What's your training method? Natural remedies? FORUM/POLL? For those in the last one I asked, this isn't to spaz out at people you don't agree with. If you answer please be polite. No criticizing anyone's answers, only positive feedback. Please answer these questions: 1) what is your training method? 2) what do think of mine? 3) what is your opinion on natural horse remedies and essential oils. I can answer 1 and 3 1) I'll make this brief. I base my training on respect from both horse and rider. I understand the horse deeply and open myself up to the horse. I completely understand the horse before I go anywhere, I wait for the horse to reveal itself to me. Everything is based on trust. The most important part is the relationship, which I forgot to say in my last "question" where everyone called me a hippie and said I let horses walk all over me. Well so what, they can think what they want. I want a good relationship from the start, where the horse can feel my balanced energy and want to follow me. I know the interconnections of horses. I am ranked above the horse, but I get there without a fight. The horse chooses to follow me. In some cases, especially with stallions you can't win the fight to be dominant unless you kill the horse's soul. Many stallions are prepared to fight to their death and will not give up their dominant rank so i work WITH the horse, we respect each other but altogether the horse follows me. 3)Natural remedies: this is a new thing I am going into. I know a lot about them now. Please be polite! Why are you people so rude? Why don't people read things here??? The first answer was GREAT! Thanks!!! Peanut Palomino: When did I say all stallions are like that? I said SOME are! For everyone asking about a horse's soul: You don't understand the delicate nature of a horse. They are creatures of dignity and respect, two things most humans don't have. Repressing a horse and forcing it until it gives up and doesn't care and does everything for you crushes its soul. How I reach a true relationship of trust and respect. It completely, totally and untimely depends on the horse. It starts with ground work. Everything is on the ground at first. Riding comes way after, even with previously trained horse. The first time with the horse is the most important. I go in a round pen or a small pen or arena with a horse and understand the horse. With my calm energy the horse learns to trust me and wants to follow me.

I would love a Natural Horsemanship/Colt Training Email Buddy!? I've taken riding lessons for years and worked with a number of horse people in a range of skill from expert to downright foolish. Now I have found someone who keeps horses at her home privately and lets me work with her younger and inexperienced horses. I love training, and I quickly found out that this so called "Natural Horsemanship" is the most effective way to communicate with a horse and teach it to meet human expectations. It is also the most impressive to me. Whatever you want to call it, "Natural Horsemanship" is defined by Wikipedia as the philosophy of working with horses by appealing to their instincts and herd mentality. I realize there are many different methods of doing so and plenty of spokespeople who have slapped their face and name on the "brand" of training. There is no single way to train a horse, but if you agree that Natural Horsemanship is the way to go, you could probably help me out. I have purchased a few books and have been reading tirelessly about it on the internet, the concepts are very easy to understand, but when I go out and apply them on my horses, I really wish I had some sort of evaluation. Everyone has to start somewhere, and although I never had the chance to grow up with horses, I can tell that the experience I am gaining will benefit both myself and many horses in my lifetime. If you are a horse training expert who is interested in the well being of any horse, I would love for you to lend your time and knowledge and help me along the way. I keep a journal of my progress but I would like someone to read what I am doing and comment and criticize. We could do this via email and with no pressure, leisurely exchange details of training and areas I could improve on. I am basically asking for a personal consultant, but I would really appreciate any time donated. I'm glad to have responses already and I am going to check my yahoo email to see if someone left me a message, but I would much rather be contacted at fist-fights-and-red-lights@hotmail.com Smokie and Riley, if I don't hear from you I will be pestering you shortly! The more gurus the better!

I have been training my horse with leg cues, when do I move on? I have an 8 yr old TWH gelding named Midnight. He is a very smart and willing horse who loves people and to learn. I use natural training on him. I think he is smart anyway. Thursday and today (yesterday it got to dark by the time I could get there) I started to teach him leg cues and so far he knows stop, back and walk. He does them about 80% of the time. Sometimes when I ask him to stop he hesitates a little or slows but doesn't stop. I have been giving him 2 seconds to respond to the cue bore using the reigns to reinforce what I told him. Is that a good amount of time? Should I keep working on those things until he does them with no hesitation 100% of the time before I move on to side passing, moving out the shoulder etc? Is he smart or do I just think that because I have not worked with allot of other horses much. I am really loving teaching him all or this, I was so proud of him and happy to see him back calmly with his head low for the 1st time ever! My end goal is basically a horse who listens better and a bridle less ride! Here he is! http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh286/gaited_girl_twh/aadc-1.jpg http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh286/gaited_girl_twh/aaadssdfghjouy.jpg In case anyone wants to know. To have him walk I sit up straight in the saddle and squeeze with my upper thigh. To have him stop I lean back a little, relax and slide my knees slightly up. To have him back I put my legs on his shoulders and tap with my heels. He seems to back faster when I put them farther in front of him. Thanks for reading!

I'm trying to gain more horse experience? I'm trying to gain more horse experience but on a tight budget. I've been riding for 8 years loosely but have never really "experienced" horses. I go to shows (as an audience member) and know horse behavior and believe more in the natural horse training (not so much Parelli, but if anyone knows Monty Roberts, like that). I've never attempted training a horse and haven't gotten my hands dirty so-to-speak. So how do I gain horse experience? I really want to and I'm eager to learn (I go through books, get magazines, read articles, head to shows, etc.) but I'm not sure how to branch out. I thought about working for free or for lessons at a local barn, and hopefully participate in learning to train horses once they get to know me and trust me. I thought maybe if I became a horse hand for cheaper price I could head to horse shows and talk around the barn, listen to advice, and get into the real experience. What else? Please! I really want to know more!

Horse training question? I have a 5 year old Quarter Horse mare who was wild back in January. I've been training her with natural horsemanship and she has come a LONG way. She will where a western or english saddle and will jump on-line with the stirrups flapping. She is very sensitive and can be reactionary at times. I've ponyed her on trail rides and she seems to like getting out of the pasture and has only given me trouble while being ponyed once or twice. I want to start riding her would like to know what I should do the first time I get on her? Natural methods only please I don't want to "break" her. Whenever I have seen someone "break" a horse in our area where we live it has been very cruel and horse or cowboy end up getting hurt. I realize that is not true in every case. I'm sorry if I offended anyone with termology. I don't use a specific natural horsemanship program like Parelli, Lyons, Anderson, etc.. but more like a combination of all. My mares knows the 7 games from Parelli I've used Lyons techniques and Clinton Anderson methods as well. A Lyons instructor once told me "Use techniques that work for you and your horse learn as much as you can and add tools to your toolbox"

Me and my friend need help with training her horse? (long story)? Okay, well my friend knows nothing about horses. Her uncle got her a horse because she had wanted one for a long time, but my friend just got it home a few days ago and she knows nothing. I had to explain to her just about everything from brushing to farriers. Anyways she has asked for me to help train her horse sense I've trained my own and been paid to get a colts first 60 days of riding under him. The problem is, I've never dealt with a horse like hers, here are the issues. She is a 3 year old filly who is just know halter broke. - She likes to kick, it is more of a dominance kick then fearful - She likes to bite, and will often hit you with her head - She is extremely pushy and will run over you - I've tried to let her know pressure is ok by touching her legs with a soft flexible whip and she broke it with a swift kick. - It's hard to stop her when leading - She will also raise her leg to kick if you go near her teats. I figure all of her issues here are about dominance. Does anyone know a few pointers I can give my friend to help her become the leader? She already will slap the horse on her shoulder if she bites, and say no in a stern voice. She also doesn't slap hard, just to show the horse she won't get away with it and that there are punishments for bad decisions. How do we go about teaching the horse not to kick? I thought all she needed was to be desensatised and shown that we wont hurt her, but this filly seems to know that and simply just doesn't want anyone doing anything she doesn't want. It's a hard situation to explain and I'm at my wits end. Right now in the few days I've worked with this filly I have her backing up, lifting her front feet, and lunging in circles without a round pen, but I really need to get over the vices I've listed above. Please help and no rude answers. Also before anyone says its cruel to slap a horse, I want you to understand I use a natural horsemanship training method I developed myself. My belief is, if this filly was in a herd and bit the lead mare, the lead mare would punish the filly with a swift kick, or bite therefor asserting her dominance. This is the same concept I apply. I also will pat the horse down and make sure she knows what happened, happened for a reason and that I'm not going to hit her everytime I go to touch her. To me, this builds trust and respect. Sorry for the rant, please feel free to answer now lol.

Age to start training a horse to be ridden????????? hey all! i've heard so many different opinions on what age to start training a horse to be ridden so i was wondering on your opinions. Details on my horse and the type training i'm doing: he's 1 year old_ an arabian_a gelding_he's already around 13-14 h.h._he's very laid back and when he was lying down in the summer time you can go lie on him and play with his legs and he doesnt care_we think hell be fairly easy to train_im 5 feet tall_about 100lbs_and i plan to train him natural horsemanship Thanks in advance you guys! :D

Why use a harsh bit if the horse is trained properly? If your horse is trained to respond to "the slightest touch" then WHY use a spade or other "harsh in the wrong hands" bit??? I have never been able to understand the logic... I see it as either a lack of training ...or you are asking (forcing - with pain as the punishment) the horse to do something UN natural. Please don't tell me that it is only harsh if used in the wrong hands - that would mean that the rider using it believes they are 100% perfect - and we all know there is no such thing. Interesting answers! I appreciate the idea that "harsh" bits should be only used to "attain a greater level of precision" and that "the horse should be trained up to it" - this makes sense! Then there are properly trained cutting horses - IMO the BEST training methods go into them as they can and will perform their job with no bridle at all. They are trained UP to needing NO bit, rather than a harsher one... Thank You all!

Natural for Horses? Debate of the day question? This should draw a lot of fire. I see this all of the time on Answers. This headset (refered to a western pleasure horse), gait, training method, way of riding, bit, etc. are not "natural" to a horse. OK, then what is? Horses are not predators, but we teach them to chase cattle. We teach them to rein, spin, run barrels, jump, drive and a host of other things. And while I am all for a kinder, gentler way of achieving these things, I am not sure how to do it "naturally". We keep them in stalls and feed them grains they would never eat otherwise. We worm and give them shots. Stick them in trailers and haul them around from place to place. Should our horses all be running wild & free? That is about as natural as you can get. So I would really like to know what you consider natural to a horse. And this is one thing you need to think about. If it was natural, then why do we have to train them to do it? I am in no way saying that animals should only be allowed to run free. BUT what I am trying to say is that everytime someone heres asks a training question (usually about bits or headsets), they get jumped on for not doing something "naturally". So what is the "natural" method to train a top pleasure, rope or any other discipline?

How much to charge for horse training? O.K. my husband is a farrier part time and a client have asked me to work with there horse because there isn't anybody around here that knows anything. I would in a hearbeat but I have been out of horse training for about 10 years. Even when I was in it, I never did enough horses to get completely solid, plus I've kinda switched over to the natural method (clinton anderson) which I've only practiced on 2 horses for like 2 weeks. But the client says he doesn't care he just needs some help with his daughters young horse. So what do I do?? How much do I charge especially for being so rusty. I know I would charge him for gas money (they only live about 12 miles away) but how much do I charge after that? He wants me to come down 2-3 times a week. This horse doesn't have good manners on ground or under saddle. It's a 4/5 yr old with a 13 yr old girl gren rider. I want to tell them to sell the horse but they want to make this horse work. They want to get the horse good enough to go to the fair in mid July. Horse doesn't have a decent whoa, pulls on the bit, super rubber necked, has no back up at all, etc. There is more, this horse never had the right training when it was broke. Period. lol

Horse training etc or naturopathy? which is a better career? I'm looking at studying in coffs at the school of natural medicine,(anyone been there?) i was going to start off doing massage and work my way up to a diploma in naturopathy. The way the economy is going i don't know if this is a good idea anymore, if people can't afford petrol would they still opt for natural medicine even though there's no rebates? I'm really interested in this, please anyone who works in this feild, is it as good as it looks from the outside? and will i make good money? i have been i'll in the past and thought it would be great to be able to work and learn and heal, but...I'm also in love with horses and have rescued two, i spend alot of time with them so i don't know if it's better to study equine science or horse training or something instead (alot harder work i realise). have thought of starting a horse rescue group but thats years off, please someone help me i'm at a cross road and don't know which way to turn!

What is the traditional way of training? I know the natural way, that is how I train horses. But I have never understood or learned about the other way. Please give as detailed an answer as possible.

Off season grooming? Manicured or natural. Horse survey!? So I got to thinking. My horse is now sound and back into training, but we missed all the summer shows and they're will be only be one more local show in fall. After being lame for so long, and in pasture, I let his mane grow out (I ride dressage so normally it would be short), I also let his whiskers grow. Other people at my barn keep their manes short, and whiskers shaved all year round. I think it is nicer for my horse to have a mane and whiskers to keep the flies off, and they think it is nicer to keep them looking good and tangle free. What do you guys think?

One of my friends had a horse before I knew her and we were talking about their training the other day? First let me explain. The horse pretty much came with the property when they bought it and apparently had at some point been broken to ride, she never rode it though. She says this was because the two times she got on it first tried to bite her and then bucked her off. So she gave up and just did natural horsemanship groundwork with it in 4h, I don't know what kind but she said it might have been Parelli(sp?) I said she should have gotten right back on after the buck since she wasn't injured and rode it out, made the horse understand that she was in charge and going to ride it no matter what that took. Another one of our friends said that was cruel, she did the right thing in not getting back on because it obviously didn't want to be ridden. Who do you think was right? By the way the girl that said not getting on again was the right thing to do also thinks crops should be for decoration only, and when a horse bites you you just let them get away with it. The girl she bucked off didn't sound as if it scared her, she just couldn't be bothered to get back on and deal with it. So she worked her on the ground the whole time they had her because she couldn't be bothered actually working or training her properly.

How can I make my horse move from his hind end? Ok I am training my horse for barrels and roping. When he is turn out he natural moves from his hind end but when I am riding him he is very heavy on the front and doesnt want to use he back end. I need to get him to sit down around a barrel but he is is to front heavy. What do I do?

The Natural Horseman Training/Aroma Therapy? I've been reading about it alot lately and most of it makes sense to me and I just wanna know what y'all think about it and Aroma Therapy to calm and heal horse.

What programs are out there to help me with training my horse? I got him 2 months ago but I've only been riding for about 6 months. He was very quiet and well trained when he came first but he is starting to regress so I think I need to do some ground work or something with him. I just got the Parelli level 1 program but I find there is a lot of negativity out there about it, I dont like all the 'hype' and where I live it's not much used. I want to start taking him to my riding lessons so dont want to confuse him. I ride English and there are no schools locally that do training/ground work or even horse care training. No-one in my family knows anything about horses and I dont think there is anyone close by where I live who does. I like the way Parelli Training is structured so I can follow it easily on my own as I also lack confidence and I tend to be a bit too soft with him. Is there any alternative programs out there that could help me? The guy I bought him from uses a combination of Natural and Traditional methods. My main problem is that I have never seen anyone training a horse and am completely clueless! The seller unfortunately lives 300 miles away and he does lessons but its not an option for me. Horses are not really a common hobby in my area, and I'd hate to be giving him 'negative' training without knowing it which is why I'd really prefer some type of 'set program' to start with. I can always broaden my scope later when I'm more knowledgable about horses and what I'm doing.

horse training shows on tv? I just found out that I can get RFDTV on my cable I used to have it when I had the dish so I havent watched in about 2 years. My question is who are all these trainers having shows and making tons of money off of their so called natural horsemanship? People like Ray Ainsworth, Julie Goodnight, Ryan Gingerich, Leslie Lan, Parelli, Craig Cameron, and Clinton Anderson. Now I love Clinton Anderson, but my point is Ive been Training for over 28 years and non of this stuff is new to me, Weve been using these techniques forever. Every program that I watched followed with please buy my series of DVD's Im thinking WOW these people are just making a killing with their products and peoples need to have special halters, lead ropes and whips.....jeez LOLOL I missed my calling. Dragon eyes.....LOL you made me laugh, thanks

Traditional methods or "natural horsemanship"? I'm curious to see what people generally prefer: traditional horse training methods or new "natural horsemanship"? And why do you prefer it? Are you open to new ways of thinking or do you consider the information currently available to be sufficient? I'm thrilled with the response to this question so far. I believe good horsemanship is about common sense and shouldn't be labelled "traditional" or "natural". While I try to keep things natural, many "natural" methods are traditional. Natural horsemanship has been around for centuries. It's great to see that people are open minded and think about the methods being used. Do any of you think their is a benefit to learning about current marketed natural horsemanship (Parelli, Lyons, Roberts, etc)? I thank everyone for their awesome answers! I didn't expect such a mature response and sure didn't expect the general consenus to be so very similar. All the answers were soo good. Thanks so much, guys!!!

I bought my granddaughter a pony for Christmas this past year. My granddaughter is just a natural when it? is just a natural with horses, loves them and isn't afraid of them, where I on the other hand am right the opposite. She gets this love of horses from her mother, which I do think is in the gene's.lol When I bought the pony I had already made arrangements with her riding instructor to keep the pony for me and care for him. Here in Alabama our weather was very rainy so she did not get to see the pony for 6 months. So I decided to have a pasture fenced in which was about 1 acre out at my Mothers thinking she could ride him everyday with the help of the trainer, because I am still not very sure of her riding the pony without supervision. Again the weather in Ala was a scorcher this summer and the trainer was unavailable and I found that caring for a pony is alot of work for a 57 year old grandmother and an 8 year old so we decided the pony would be better off at the trainers for it's care. We are going to see Rusty everyday and taking him treats so he will still know us. We live in a small rural town and have no horse shows or rodeo's. I really want Karlie to do something with ponies or horses because of her love of them and she is not interested in sports what kind of competitions can ponies compete in and what kind of trainer, which too is very limited in this area does she need. Her present trainer is a barrell racer and do you have to have a special trainer in Western Pleasure? That is really what I would like for her to do. Someone told me he is part Welch & hachkney and he is quilded, very gentle when she did get to ride him on Christmas morning that was the last time she has been on him. Any suggestions on what she could do in this very limited area when it come to horse training and shows. No it is not me that wants the horses that was her idea, I have never been around horses and was not interested in them, like I said she is a big tomboy and has always love them, so it was her desire to do something with them. I live in a small town between Florence & Jasper in northwest Al. We used to have rodeos all the time here back in the 70's. Someone suggested I buy a cheap horse trailer and take her to some small horse show about 20 miles away, but she still needs more experience on riding. All of you have great ideals. I just don't know anything about horses, but the three months I kept the pony on my mothers land I do know it is hard work, which I make my granddaughter do most of it because I am afraid of them and run as fast as I can if I happen to get behind him. lol. I have made special treats for him and we visit him everyday so he won't get so distance from us like he did from Dec and May.

My horse is deathly afraid if bridges. Can Someone give me some training help please!?!?!? She doesn't hate them all. Only the ones that you can see through. The ones with the spaces. I know it is only natural for them to fear it but she is extreamly bad. I also don`t have any other horses....

why are some horse people so nosy, negative and close minded....? Me and another boarder at my barn found this great natural horse trainer who uses a lot of priciples from how the Native Americans trained their horses....there are tons of fun exercises and really "crazy" things to try with your horse that will help with bonding and trust and since we both have young horses, we really like these techniques. Problem is, most of the people at our barn give us crap for it. A lot of the things involove crawling under your horse, laying in the pasture with him....etc etc. I know that these sound so crazy, but why must people bash us for trying them. They are always telling us how we are going to get hurt and they act like we know nothing about horses. I've been around horses for 20 years, riding since I was 5 and if I didn't trust my horse, I wouldn't be trying these methods. I know they can be dangerous, but so can any technique and if I get trampled, then hey, that's my business, I know the dangers involved. Why must most horse people be so negative? They aren't willing to try new techniques and they even bash us for hand feeding treats to our horses, neither of which are nippy. If I thought hand feeding my gelding was making him pushy or nippy, I would quit, but I have had no problems so far. I just don't understand why horse people have so many rules that "can't' be broken. I know they are all for the safety of us and our horses, but it's not like I'm in anymore danger than the next guy with a horse. All horses are unpredictable. Why can't they just butt out and let us have fun with our horses? It gets really annyoing because we feel like we are constantly being lectured or attending a safety briefing! Did anyone give the Native Americans crap for riding barefoot and with little clothing or the Bedouins crap for letting their horse sleep in their tent (both of which are more dangerous than the tecniques we are trying)? NO, now we look back and say "ohh what great horsemen they were!" FYI...these techniques are not as risky as some of the things the barn owner lets his kids do, he's even watched us work with our horses and thought it was interesting....the owner has no problem with it. I board at a family farm, not a big ritzy training facility with a bunch of rules and liability issues. It's just a bunch of country people who like to ride and have a good time, if we get hurt, then so be it.....ALSO I never said I was crawling under my horse to bond with it....this is one of the exercises done to build trust and it's one Native Americans used to do. I'm not asking anyone to "buy it" or not. Different strokes for different folks....GEEEZ

what is the average monthly fee for boarding a horse at stables in Florida? am almost ready to take in 5 or 6 horses will board including daily turn-out and exercise in Florahome, FL. have one palomino mare and a palomino yearling that I am training the Parelli Natural Horsemanship way--have ridden and worked with horses for 26 years and began Parelli program a year ago-the absolute best methods I have ever witnessed-just prior to beginning Parelli with my 2year old mare, worked on a breeding farm/training farm for 2 years and all I need to know right now is what to charge folks for boarding and really good, loving care. This is truly a lifelong dream coming true-While I do not feel competent as yet to train other people and their horses-the Parelli's will get me there in another year or so--I have and love just being around horses and can certainly take excellent care of them. Am limiting myself to 6 for now so can have time for continuing my work with Parelli. Thanks

How old should a horse be before you try Join Up? I'm going to be buying a young horse, and I'm very into Natural Horsemanship. The thing is, all horses that I've trained this way have been older, at least 5 years old. How old should a horse be before I try Join Up with them? Or does it matter? I don't want to confuse the horse by trying too soon, but I thought if you start the bond of trust sooner, the better. But I don't want to rush anything. Anyone know?

How can I bond with my horse? I have a very strong bond with my horse and he trusts me, but I do not feel like we spend any quality time together. I ride him, groom him, graze him, and that is about it. What else can I do? He is trained in natural horsemanship as well as jumping.

what colleges in southernish texas major in horsemanship? im curious to where a good college is, like where i can major in natural horsemanship, and horse training and stuff.

Natural Horsemanship... in your own words? In your own words, how would you describe natural horsemanship as it relates to training a horse? What are the big concepts, and what are the benefits? Also.... how long do you think that a horse being trained with "natural" methods should be in training before you get it to a green broke level? (from halter breaking to basics under saddle) Maybe I could put it differently... What makes it so "natural" and what makes it work?

I am learning about Natural Horsemanship. What can you tell me? John Lyons methods especially? I am being considered to help "get more miles" on a mare that has been professionally trained in Natural Horsemanship. I myself have a very natural and instinctive way of riding all horses, though I don't know anything about John Lyons training (and my competition, one other rider, does). I don't have a "proper" Natural Horsemanship background. Can anyone provide tips or any other advice that may help me? I'm confident I can connect with this mare, like I connect to all of my rides. Tomorrow the owner and the trainer would like to watch me ride her and evaluate how well she reacts to me.

how to train a horse to lounge? I'm wondering how to train my yearling to lounge on a line so that i can later teach him to free lounge. by the way, being he is so young i know that he cant be lounged for long periods of time. like maybe 5 minutes or so at a time because its so hard on his still growing joints. i plan to train him with natural horsemanship. i dont know if that makes a difference in how you train them to lounge. Thanks! sorry guys i meant lunge lol

How do you teach a full grown horse to lead? I MIGHT be getting the chance to train a BLM mustang. Now, I have trained some horses before, and he isn't crazy or anything, so I believe I will be able to do it. But all other horses that I have trained have at least been handled enough to lead before. Someone told me to tie him to a tree until he gives up, but I dont like that, I more into the natural training. The "butt-rope" thing I dont really see working either. So how would I go about doing this? Cspiker: I wasnt actually going to tie it too a tree! Or do the butt rope. I just said that those are some things that people have told me to do, and obviously I made the decision not to. I have worked with a horse that was so abused that she may as well have been a mustang, because she was just as wild or worse. I have spent time with this horse, and I can handle it.

im training my horse hunseat and..? i recently got a 13yr old 15hh APHA mare who is trained western pleasure. i ride huntseat but i believe she could be trained english. she has been ridden english b4. her previous owner told me to use a kimberwicke on her for english(should i stay with a kimberwicke for training??). she has a problem though of gooing way to fast wen i ask her to extend her gait. please dont tell me to either just pull back on reins or use a martingale. I know how to ride but i have a feeling its with the bit. because she lifts her head up nd tosses it. she picks up a very fast choppy trot(she oocccasionally bucks) and its very umcorfortable. i want a natural horsemanship way to correct it. thank you soo much nichole!!! i will have the vet come out this weekend and see. thanks for the tips!!!

Can you overcome a horse's natural inclinations? We own a GORGEOUS flea-bitten grey Hanoverian. My daughter had been training/showing him in hunter classes but was always marked down because of his head carriage being high and curved, etc. Natural Hanoverian carriage that she was only occasionally able to move to a more hunter position. She has now switched to dressage training which seems much more "natural" to him. He looks fantastic at it, as a matter of fact. So, that begs the question, do certain breeds lend themselves better to certain disciplines and should we even try to overcome nature training them sort of against their predispositions??

im trying to break a horse....need help? i have broke horses before using "natural horsemanship" methods, but i have found that horses trained in this way seem to be "unruly" and likely to develop bad habits. if you think about it, horses trained "naturally" are kind of like those kids whose parents put them in "time out" instead of whipping them. anyway, does anyone have any experience with "whip training" a horse using negative reinforcement techniques. i have read some about it, and it seems that the horses respond more quickly to this type of training in order to escape being whipped. also, from what i have read, they are less likely to develop bad habits under saddle and respect the rider more. does anyone have any experience with this? any suggestions? thanks

is there such a thing as natural ability with horses? everytime i go out riding the guides comment and ask how long i've been riding and where i've trained and if i should want to do any lessons and i notice that with i'm with friends that they don't ask them that but only me. i know that i do have a gift with animals but is there such a thing as a natural ability in horse back riding and equestrian skills?

Training a horse who was not bred for jumping, how to jump? The Story: I ride a HaflingerXWelsh Cob Pony who was bred for driving. Yesterday during her lesson, i was trotting her and cantering her over poles and she was doing really well, and pushing forward, and picking up her feet, so i decided to set up one tiny cross rail. The first two times she just stopped and front of and sniffed it, but i kept at it, and soon she was able to jump it at a trot and canter. And she was really jumping it, not just trotting over it or anything. But then my instructer said that since she wasnt built for jumping she would be no good at it. Or at least going very high. I was surprised because she'd done SO well on the corss rails like she was a natural! My Question: What do yo think? Do you think i should just continues teaching her how to drive which she was bred for, or see how good she is at jumping? Do you agree with my instructer that she will never get to high at least? I see plenty of ponies in the jumping rings these days! Pics http://s981.photobucket.com/albums/ae291/seashrimp1112/Horses/?action=view&current=DSC00670.jpg&newest=1 http://s981.photobucket.com/albums/ae291/seashrimp1112/Horses/?action=view&current=DSC00671.jpg&newest=1 Thank you!

What is the most important practical lesson you have learnt about breaking in/ training young horses? Things that I can apply and use, and anything that you think is important that isnt done enough.e.g natural horsemanship, patience, whatever. Thank you! Thank you all so far. Just thought Id let you know, I'm not planning to break in a horse from this, just for future use. :)

Riding someone else's horse to keep then in shape? My friend got suggested to ride (for free!) a beautiful horse that belongs to a local man who does not know how to ride, and I am an experienced rider (I have been riding for 4 1/2 years) and I am wondering if that is possible. Maybe I could just ride them for this holiday, because I have 3 weeks off of school and most people that live here are traveling to different countries so maybe I could ride someone's horse while they are away? My dad is going to go to a local stable to see if something like what my friend has got going could be set up for me becase i REALLY want to try out the Parelli Natural horsemanship Training program on a horse but I cannot have one of my own. If you live in Abu Dhabi, are traveling, and have a horse that needs excercise, just leave a comment! thanks and well guess what, Hell Raiser! My friend is working with "her" horse, too. and THEY ARE AMAZING TOGETHER SO SHUT UP AND STOP BASHING PEOPLE OK! go on youtube and search Leanne and Asawer ok! youll see

What is the easiest way to measure a horse for a western saddle? I am mostly asking for an easy way to measure my thoroughbred for a western saddle that fits, but also, a site i found, saddleonline.com, has nice looking saddles, but it is unbelievably low priced. I'm not sure what to think about it. als, what are some tips for teaching horses to jump? My horse loves western but is also a natural jumper. He has days when he jumps anything, but he gets bored with jumping very quickly. what should i do to keep him interested? I appreciate any help with these questions and just to clarify, i am NOT new with horses. only new to western and I'm not exactly sure how to train jumping.

What do you have to do to become a horse trainer? i am 15 and will be looking at schools and degrees that i can take in the near future . I really want to become a horse trainer. I want to know what do i take in high school and collage. the type of training i want to do is english like saddleseat or dressage or the type called natural horsemanship that helps you bond with a horse. can any one help!?

How to Show a pushy horse whats wrong, with natural horseman ship.? My mare tends to be very pushy. I was trained to just hit the horse and beet it into sense when i was a kid, but now that i am older i can see that it was a terrible thing to do. But it seems that my horse now thinks i am a push over and is working her way back to the top. I dont want to let her get away with this because i know that it could lead to unsafe habits. Does anyone have advice?? I would really like to show her that its not ok to do that but without harming her, but i cant for the life of me find out how in my books!!! Any advice or books ideas would be helpful, thanks so much!!

I don't believe in natural horsemanship...? I'll admit that the methods work, but there's really no natural way to tame or train a horse. Any human-horse interaction is not natural. Anytime you see a person and horse doing dressage, or flying over a jump or just a horse letting a person touch it, is not natural to the horse. Horses are flight animals (i'm sure you all know this) and they are hard-wired to flee from anything scary that could be a threat to them. So, when we teach them to ignore these fears or to trust a us, it's just not in there nature. I read a book by a trainer who worked with Monty Roberts for a long time, (Unlock your horse's talent in 20 minutes a day, by Richard Staples) Has anyone read this book? Well, that's my opinion, what's yours? lol i don't want to start a movement or protest or w/e i just kinda wanted to open a discussion about it from another point of view ok? Here's a link for the book Jenny. Sorry I totally mixed the 2 authors names together!!!(thats prob. why you didnt find anything!) http://www.amazon.co.uk/Unlock-Your-Horses-Talent-Training/dp/0715313126 Angel-just because not everyone isn't useing NH doesn't mean they beat their horses into submission. There are other logical ways to train a horse!(that doesn't involve beating!) Hey Gallop- i do try to keep an open mind towards new things, k? But a few years ago my sister had an ornery colt who would always bite her and wouldn't lead. So, she sent him to a farm where the trainer specialized in Parelli stuff. Well, that lady could not stop this colt from taking off with the lead, he was so head strong. The lady had him for months and my sis was running outta extra cash. And my sister sent him to me. And I simply put a chain under his chin and applied pressure and turned him in a circle whenever he decided to run or bite. He learned quick! Anyway this discussion is closed now, and i'm really having a tough time picking an answer, because this was just a matter of opinion, you know? I really liked everyone's response, even those that were against mine.

Natural horsemanship trainer question? I just got a new horse and I want to train him using natural horsemanship methods. He is still young, only 2 and I want to make sure he is started the right way. I have read one of John Lyons' books and I have been researching other natural horsemanship trainers online. I found one named Sylvia Scott in Virginia that I really really like. All of her methods just make sense to me and I am eager to begin his training. I was just wondering if anyone has used her training methods before? If so, how do they compare to other natural trainers out there? Any info would be helpful. Below is a link to her website. Thanks! www.naturalhorsetraining.com

horse survey! (20 characters blah blah)? Your favourite horse's... 1. name 2. breed 3. colour 4. height 5. funny habit Your opinion on... 1. Western riding 2. English riding 3. Natural horsemanship 4. Whips 5. training wild horses And some questions about you: 1. How long have you had horses/been riding? 2. What was your first horse's name? 3. What is your favourite breed of horse? 4. Do you prefer horses or ponies? 5. Your favourite horse film or book? Finally, find a picture of a horse on google images that you think sums up your dream horse. =] have fun!

Do you think this horse is too young for me? I'm 14 years old and I've been riding since I can remember. I've been taking English lessons since 2nd grade and have done jumping (2.5ft) and started some dressage. I'm a very confident rider and have been through experiences of being bucked off, stepped on, just about anything. I've been on trail riding trips of up to 7 hours straight of riding which have involved steep uphill and downhill, crossing rivers and ditches. I've been in a few shows. I've spent months with my Aunt and have done all of the work of taking care of her four horses as if I owned them. I do know how to ride western as well. I've been around horses my whole life. I have some experience with the Parelli Natural Horsemanship training. I've been to horse camps and on camping trips with horses. Do you think this horse would be ok for me? Breed: APHA- Paint, APHA- Paint OVERO Date Foaled: April 2005 Height: 15hh Gender: Mare Color: Bay Temperament: 2 Talented and sweet bay overo mare, with a great disposition and mind. She learns quickly and wants to please. Has been shown successfully in open shows, 4H, state 4H, OHSET, and state OHSET. Her first year competing in OHSET, she placed in the top ten in both showmanship and English. She also placed 2nd in state in In-Hand Obstacle Relay. She will make a great youth all-around horse in whichever direction you want to take her. She has been trained in English, Western, Showmanship, in-hand trail, and is started on trail. She trailers, clips, bathes, and stands for a farrier. She would also make a great trail horse and she is extremely calm and easy-going. She is a great girl. She is very calm, not spooky. I use her for showing, but she also likes the trails. She is very sweet, and loves to be loved on. She doesn't get "marish" at all and has a consistently good attitude. She can be a bit pushy on the ground, but will grow out of it. She is a hard worker, and wants to do what you ask. She loads, is good in her stall and around feeding time. I have never had her do anything harmful to someone or herself, and she is very smart I'm asking because this girl thinks with her only being 5 years old that her training is not that established and that it could possibly diminish over time. So what do you guys think? All comments appreciated! Even though I've done jumping and dressage and have enjoyed it, it's not something I would be doing for shows or anything. I'm more interested in having a buddy that I can take on trail rides and ride around in an arena doing basic stuff. We probably wouldn't be in any shows. Hope that helps a bit.

Do you think this horse is good for me? I'm 14 years old and I've been riding since I can remember. I've been taking English lessons since 2nd grade and have done jumping (2.5ft) and started some dressage. I'm a very confident rider and have been through experiences of being bucked off, stepped on, just about anything. I've been on trail riding trips of up to 7 hours straight of riding which have involved steep uphill and downhill, crossing rivers and ditches. I've been in a few shows. I've spent months with my Aunt and have done all of the work of taking care of her four horses as if I owned them. I do know how to ride western as well. I've been around horses my whole life. I have some experience with the Parelli Natural Horsemanship training. I've been to horse camps and on camping trips with horses. Do you think this horse would be ok for me? Breed: APHA- Paint, APHA- Paint OVERO Date Foaled: April 2005 Height: 15hh Gender: Mare Color: Bay Temperament: 2 Talented and sweet bay overo mare, with a great disposition and mind. She learns quickly and wants to please. Has been shown successfully in open shows, 4H, state 4H, OHSET, and state OHSET. Her first year competing in OHSET, she placed in the top ten in both showmanship and English. She also placed 2nd in state in In-Hand Obstacle Relay. She will make a great youth all-around horse in whichever direction you want to take her. She has been trained in English, Western, Showmanship, in-hand trail, and is started on trail. She trailers, clips, bathes, and stands for a farrier. She would also make a great trail horse and she is extremely calm and easy-going. She is a great girl. She is very calm, not spooky. I use her for showing, but she also likes the trails. She is very sweet, and loves to be loved on. She doesn't get "marish" at all and has a consistently good attitude. She can be a bit pushy on the ground, but will grow out of it. She is a hard worker, and wants to do what you ask. She loads, is good in her stall and around feeding time. I have never had her do anything harmful to someone or herself, and she is very smart So what do you guys think? All comments appreciated! I'm asking because I was wondering if you thought she was too young? I wouldn't want her training to diminish over time. I would just be planning to use her as a trail buddy. I don't plan on doing shows. Not anytime soon anyway.

Do you think I'm ready to own my a horse? I'm 14 years old and I've been riding since I can remember. I've been taking English lessons since 2nd grade and have done jumping (2.5ft) and started some dressage. I'm a very confident rider and have been through experiences of being bucked off, stepped on, just about anything. I've been on trail riding trips of up to 7 hours straight of riding which have involved steep uphill and downhill, crossing rivers and ditches. I've been in a few shows and I know all the tough work with that comes with horses as well as the financial. I've spent months with my Aunt and have done all of the work of taking care of her four horses as if I owned them. I understand everything that can happen and everything needed to own a horse. I'm committed and responsible. I plan to just have a buddy that I can ride, take on trails and jump. I do know how to ride western as well. I don't plan on doing any showing. I've been around horses my whole life. I have some experience with the Parelli Natural Horsemanship training. I've been to horse camps and on camping trips with horses. Do you think I'm ready for my own horse? sorry for my question typo! I would like to add that my parents and I have discussed the finances and have looked at stables to board the horse and how much the monthly coasts of that would be along with the farrier, feed, vet, worming and teeth floating expenses.

Can you train a horse not to react when a large object is thrown at it? This question is spurred by a recent incident were someone was arrested after intentionally throwing an object at a police horse, thus spooking it. I claim the spooking is a natural reaction, and the horse acted instinctively. Another user claims police horses are trained not to spook, even if something is thrown at it. I would appreciate any input from trainers. I should add the object was a large inflatable object. However, I contend this is not an issue, because a horse has no clue what an inflatable object is... it only sees an object coming at it and will naturally react.

What do you think would be a good price for this arabian horse? He is a 4 year old purebred registered arabian gelding in california. He is trained inn english and western and was sired by bey shah. He is 15.2 hh. He has never been shown. He has been trained with Parelli natural horsemanship. I have put in some photos. http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee212/jschreiber15/?action=view&current=IMG_1371.jpg http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee212/jschreiber15/?action=view&current=IMG_1386.jpg The English picture was his first time doing english and he has had 90 days under sadddle

Do you believe in natural horsemanship? I certainly do! Where I live, if anybody trains a horse, they use natural horsemanship and it works BIG TIME. I love it! But I've heard that some people just hate it. I think it's the best way to go. The horses are eager to work, perform at their very best, they love people, and their spirit still exists. I was wondering if most people really didn't like it? Everybody I know LOVES it, but lately I've heard of some people that don't. Lisa - exactly the way I feel! lol yeah sometimes my mini gets to be pretty 'mean' cause he's a stallion and bites a lot so of course he gets in trouble! Don't worry - he will be gelded!

Natural horsemanship trainer? I am living 6 hours from my horse atm and its likely to be atleast 6 months before I can move him here. In the mean time he is boarded with my mother who hired a "natural horsemanship" trainer to work him since she can't physically atm. When I left him 6 months ago he would walk, trot, canter at both english or western paces in a halter or a short shank hackamore. He had maners and came when called from the field. He also stood tied to anything, including a corn stalk without pulling on it. After this man working him he wont stand tied to anything, will Not come from the field, The trainer insists upon him wearing a bit because " he has to submit to all things asked of him", even though he was told before he started this was a hackamore horse. His training methods have led to the horse going down under him 3 times and developing a lovely habit of head shaking whenever the bit is in his mouth. Micky hasn't worn a bit in 6 years. He was sent to a trainer by his former owners who slapped a 3 inch cathedral with a double twist and 7 inch shanks in his mouth. Ran him around a arean and proclaimed him trained because he would stop at the lightest pressure on the reins. Last night after 40 minutes of argueing I told the "trainer" to never set foot on my place again and that as he guarenteed satisfactory results I was expecting a return of the past 6 months of payments. I rode him for 30 minutes last night and while he has improved upon the ground he is a absolute nightmare in the saddle. Stiff, tense, unresponsive to seat, body or leg. He will not move forward, rears and trembles if you move your weight upon him. So my question is .. since when did "natural horsemanship" mean total submission of a horse? If these are the results you get with this system its won no fan in me. What good is a horse that moves away from you on the ground by reading body language if you cant ride him? And exactly how is metal in his mouth more natural then a soft rope lope around his nose? Now I get to look forward to a year of regaining a supple responsive horse that moves forward without fear.

I want to become a horse trainer? With my own method? I've studied Parelli Natural Horsemanship for a long long time (no haters PLEASE), I have tried Monty Roberts, Clinton Anderson etc etc... Through studying and training/retraining my horses, I have picked up lots of great techniques and modified them a bit so that they work just right for me and my horses, and also made up a few of my own things which also seem to work on them (and friends horses). I wrote a book type thing wth all my ideas in it for my cousin who's pony was a nightmare when she got him, and after a year of going through every task, she has transformed the pony . She went to her first show last week, and won two classes! She wouldn't have been able to do that a year ago. I love love love training horses. I've fully trained three youngsters from scratch, one is now a successful dressage horse. I retrained my mare who was 'traditionally' backed and broken, and she's doing great. People at my livery always come to me with questions, and a few have asked me to help with their horses. One lady who had an OTT race horse handed her over to me just after Xmas as a nervous wreck, I've just given her back and she is so happy with her transformation. I would never turn any horse down, I love to work with them all. My absolute dream would be to become like Pat Parelli, to have people following my methods and seeing the results of them. I'm 16, and still at school, but I have eleven weeks off to practice everything. How the heck am I going to go about this? I know I will probably have to wait till I'm 18, but even then, what do I have to do? Do I need any qualifications? I don't think Parelli has any for training horses.. Would it be better to take horses in and retrain them (as I do now, just with no pay haha) or to go out and teach people how to train their horse.. or both?? anything else? Anyone on here a trainer? Please please please no parelli/NH haters. I haven't asked for your view on it, just your view on what I should do. Thanks!!

Buying a jumper... what will I need to do to prepare this horse for eventing? I just bought a stunning Warmblood (see my avatar), Nike. He LOVES to jump - not being sarcastic, you could point him at a truck and he'd go for it. He has 5 years of Jumper training in him, and 2 years of Hunter-Jumper training in him. Horses prefer jumping natural-looking fences, so I'm not worried about him working on cross-country... but what will I need to work on with him over the next year to prepare him for eventing? Any reccomendations? For example: lots of xc schooling & dressage work.

Big, Beautiful Horse for FREE Lease!? I have a 16.3 6 year old DARK brown gelding. He needs someone to continue his training while I am at college. Perfect for someone who wants a horse to work on but doesn't have the $. Currently jumping 3' courses, but he just steps over them! Has jumped 3'9 easily. Height won't be a problem! Trainer says he has the ability and attitude to be a big jumper or even an eq horse. Natural Changes, big stride. He could easily do childrens or adult amature. Looks more like a warmblood. Please respond with questions/ leave your email for pics. Or, if you know anyone who might be interested, give me contact info. I love this horse and don't want to sell, but he needs someone who will give him the time and consistant training he deserves while I am at school.

Who do you think is the best Natural Horsemanship trainer in America or the World? Out of the many many trainer in the United States who do you like the best for Natural Horsemanship? I like to be gentle with my horses, but I am not afraid to be harsh as long as it is not to harsh. I am getting ready to train my little three year old and I would like to know what you recommend. Thanks in advance.

What kind of horse should I look for? I'm getting a horse soon-ish (not soon enough! lol), and I wanted to know what I should look for. This will be my first horse, but I am NOT a novice! I have been riding for 5 years, riding 3-5 X a week for the last 3. I know the ropes, and the basics of training, and I DON'T want a dead-broke (not that it exists!) 30 year old pony. So, keeping that in mind, here's what I want. I want a sound, and sane horse 15+ hh, because I'm tall, and like big horses! I want a horse with get-up, because I really hate horses that don't want to go. I want to do a lot of trail, maybe even competitively, but I don't want a gaited breed. ( I like trotting!). I also want a horse that could do most anything I wanted, because I am still in the gray area of deciding what disciplines to focus on. currently, I ride western, but I want a horse that can go english, too. I want to show in pleasure, trail classes, and horsemanship, just low level. I don't want a green horse, but I want a pretty clean slate, so not a horse with lots of specialized training. I want to finish training how I want it. I'm interested in natural horsemanship, not that that means much. Any horse can do natural horsemanship, but I d like a more sensitive horse, because I like subtle cues, and that corresponds with "the natural way". I'm open to all genders (not a stally, though!), breeds, and colors. And, just so ya know, my price range is under $2500. So, is there anything in particular I should look for, training, or conformation wise? What age and breed would you suggest? Thanks! These are all great answers! I love arabs and quarters..and paints! I LOVE the appendix suggestion! My leased horse is an appendix!

How are horses trained the traditional way? I have only learned the natural way, from many different trainers so I basically mixed all their methods and added a little of my own. However, I am curious as to what the traditional way is, does anyone know? Please give a detailed answer, thanks!

Does anyone have anything negative to say about Parelli natural horsemanship?...? I've heard lots of great things about this method of training, and I'm very interested to join the savvy club, but is it really as great as it appears to be? (I have trained in other 'Natural' horsemanship methods and found some of them to be dogmatic and downright abusive to the horse)...

Devils advocate - natural horsemanship vs traditional? We've had this discussion on the board many times and it is assumed that horses broken or trained by any method other than "natural" is cruel and harsh and that natural horsemanship trainers are demi-gods with followers happy to throw $$$ at them to listen to their pearls of wisdom while the rest of us wallow in the darkness of the uninformed and unlightened. Here's several articles that I'd like to share and that you might want to consider before you part with those hard earned pennies! http://citizensforjustice.org/monty/carradine_lawsuit_pg2.html http://citizensforjustice.org/monty/aussiefraud.html http://citizensforjustice.org/monty/montypmu.html http://thesecondsight.blogspot.com/2006/06/unnatural-horsemanship-2.html Hand Full - with comments like that, anyone would think that you was my husband - fortunately you are not! If you ride the lawsuit article, he used a TB belonging to someone else for the documentary where he followed that mustang for days. The TB ended up in bad shape and a broken leg - now that's what I call a horseman - NOT!

Does a horse really need a horse blanket? I'm debating on purchasing a horse, the climate that the horse will be boarded in has very hot summers and mild winters(maximum -2) but mostly above freezing. Now I was taking horse riding lessons in the north Dakota region, and the lady that was training me had 60 horses on a 120 acre farm, temperatures there could even hit -40 celsius, and she said there's never the need for a horse blanket if you dont trim their natural winter coat, and it seems like shes right. My question is, if I let the horse keep its natural coat once autumn hits and keep it that way through out the winter, will I even need the horse blanket? I was told its poor training to get the horse used to a blanket in the winter, and that the horse requires proper shelter from the wind/rain, abundant supply of water and portioned meals through out the day. I am looking to buy a horse in the Punjab region of India and have a caretaker take care of the horse for me, I plan on getting 2 mares as they wont get bored and will keep each other company. I plan on visiting a reputable stud farm for a few days in the area and learning more about the horse feed they use, and other things that differ from the west including training. Please help with any points you think I should consider and any tips someone could give. I have been taking riding lessons for about 2 months but have stopped due to schedule conflicts. Great responses, a few points I should make clear. The 2 mares I wish to purchase will be left with a trained care taker on my own farm in India, I will be leaving them to the care of a trained caretaker who will be training and watching over them, responsible for their day to day needs. The reason I'm going to the stud farm is to see how they do things in the Indian region as to know what type of feed, enviroment the horses would need etc. not to board them. I'm only going to be in India for about a month outta the year, and plan on living there for 2-3 years afterwards but not permanently. I dont think its wrong for me to be here while the horses have a personal care taker for them on hand 24/7. The fly mask is probably the best idea, and about the monsoon rains, I am planning on building a type of run in shed out of brick, that would be ample for them. Is hay good enough in terms of diet? I believe in India they mostly feed chickpeas and dried beans with some greens.

Best way to introduce a bit to a horse? I've usually just trained horse that have only been under saddle a few times, getting them used to aids and eventually getting a nice natural outline. I've recently started working with younger horses by getting them used to being handled as well as introducing saddles, pressure on their back, lunging, etc. My question is.....how do you recommend first using a bit? I've gotten them used to having the bridle and bit on, but what do you recommend as the next step? Lunging with the bridle on....long-lining....just mounting? I know that it is always better to have another more experienced trainer there, and I do....I was simply asking on this because people seem to have very mixed opinions and I wanted to see what works best with y'all! Thanks!

Which Horse Breed Do You Like The Best? Out of all of the Baroque or Iberian horses, which breed do you choose? [ The Breeds: ] [ Andalusian ] [ Friesian ] [ Lipizzaner ] [ Lusitano ] [ Paso Fino ] [ Peruvian Paso ] I have an Andalusian / Lipizzaner cross named Federico. His lines include about 5 National Andalusian Champions of Spain, And the lines that trace back to some of the six origional Lipizzaner stallions. He is the greatest horse ever. We are currently doing Dressage, Jumping, & Trick Training. He is by far the smartest horse I have ever worked with. I am a horse trainer ( I use natural horsemanship methods, including Parelli. ) and have worked with MANY horses. Check Out Federico's Site: http://www.federico.20m.com/

Becoming A Great Horse Trainer...? Ok, Hi. Here's hoping that someone out there may have an answer for me. I'm wanting to become a horse trainer - or rather, a better trainer. I have trained many of our family horses, but my dream is to become one of the top riders. I know that I can do it, but I'm not sure how. Everybody that I have ever taken lessons from has told me that I'm a natural rider and have loads of talent. So, my dream is to become a top reining trainer. Someone like Tim McQuay, Bob Avila, Duane Latimer, Troy Heikes, Dell Hendricks, Andrea Fappani, and all the other big names. Do these trainers accept apprentices? Is it worth sending them letters? Or will they just laugh at me? This is my dream, and I am going to pursue it, no matter what, but seriously, do I stand a chance getting on with a big trainer? Should I go to someone less known? Smaller? Also, I am 19 and have been riding since I was 4. I have known since grade 3 that my dream was/is to train horses. Any advice is welcome. Thanks. :) I'm going to do it. I decided last night that I am going to apply to as many trainers as I can and keep on applying until I get hired. This is my dream and I am going to go after it. I believe in myself and I know I have the drive to follow through with the whole thing.

people from texas...this is 4 u? is there any good colleges that u can major in natural horsemanship or horse training? i kno i wanna go to texas, but i havent got a good idea of what colleges are there, somwhere in a bit southern texas...

Other Forms of Natural Horsemanship Besides Paraelli? I like to have a good relationship with horses based on trust and not fear. I went to a QH show today to observe and by watching people abuse their horses by jabbing them with spurs over and over then cranking down on their mouths made me want to learn more about how to train horses with respect. The horse I have is a victim of trainer abuse with permanent spur indents on his sides from being abused. I don't like paraelli, i think it's kinda weird so could anybody else suggest another type of natural horsemanship that would be good to try? thanks

I live In Austraila and I wanted to ask where abouts I can get free or cheap unwanted miniature ponies in need Hello ALL , I live in QLD IN Australia and I wanted to ask where about I can get cheap UN wanted horses as I am opening a miniature pony rescue centre and I want UN wanted horses that need some Tender Love and Care (TLC) I will find good home for this ponies after they are in top shape and of course there all will be hard to part with as we will all see them grow into trusting and healthy ponies . So I have NEVER been to there sales and I am thinking of going there how much do the miniature ponies there range from as I am hoping to get about 4 -5 miniatures that need a home and I only want to take up to 5 as they need all the loving they can get =] . So please let me know . oh I know what I am doing with horses and all the little ponies will be trained into Natural Horse Man Ship so it will make life alot easier for them and there new owners =] . I have always brought my horses from people never went to the sales and Now I have the room , So I am opening a miniature rescue centre I have done all paper work and things like that etc they have miniature pony shelters in there paddocks and Mini stables (stalls) and wash bays (where you wash the horses ) Anyway thanks Has any of you , been to the sales before ?? what was it like ?? Hello , Yep I have tryed petlink but it has way too many scammers on there for me so I preffer NOT to use it but thank-you heaps for your answer

Exercises to teach a horse to turn off of hindquarters? I am riding/working with a thoroughbred mare with hopes of one day running the barrel pattern with her. Background:She is off the track and somewhat green (I am not sure if it is training or just natural for her) but she turns on the forehand. The other horse that I am riding and trained naturally turned on his hindquarters so I had no issues with this. My trainer (trust me, I am not doing this alone) wants me to find exercises to get her to move off the hindquarters. My "homework" so to speak. but I have googled and nothing really comes up. So, would any of ya'll know some good exercises/training techniques to teach her to move and turn off of her hindquarters? thanks! I will talk to my trainer about it and see if we can do that. :)

is it ok to jump my horse? my filly is three years old and unbroken, but ive been jumping her on the lunge or loose schooling since she was two and a half. Is she too young? Ive been reading some things saying horses shouldnt jump until theyre 4 or 5, but shes a natural jumper (she jumped a 5 bar gate unexpectedly when she was 1!) and seems to really enjoy it. We've reached two foot and i dont intend to go any higher until im on her back. What i usually do is work her on the flat for half an hour or so then pop her over a jump a few times at the end, so i dont think im over facing her. This is the first young horse ive trained. Please let me know what you think, i dont want to hurt her or ruin her legs. thanks =]

getting a horse!!!!!! helpppp? ok so i have been nagging my mum for a horse since i could talk! she has never liked the idea as her very expensive horse who lived on vacant land 15 mins from our house (about 3000 acers) was shot by di**heads running around our property with guns.that put her off the whole idea of agisting a horse anywhere but we Only like on 1 acre.......so know i have talked her around and she is fully into looking for a horse. one problem i like all 3 that we have looked at, they all have the same training and do everything i want. so i guess it comes down to a decision on looks............1: buckskin, age 16(he still acts young) 2: bay, age 18 (still jumps at grade 2) 3: bay, age 8 (was a horse belonging to a natural horsemanship instructor) all of the above horses know natural horsemanship and are all all rounders! you can see my trouble in deciding. they all have great personalities and love attention WHAT HORSE????

senior research paper topics-horse related? So I am suposed to write a 5 page research paper on a topic that relates to my senior "project." My senior project is to make and sell rope halters. so im now having trouble coming up with a solid topic to write about. so far my ideas are: New Training methods vs. Old school methods Why So many people like natural horsemanship training age controversey??? History of Combined training But other than these pretty much open topics i cant think of anything else!!! so please any ideas or opinions to add on or add to? Any ideas related to HORSES(not necessarily rope halters) that would have enough support for a 5-page paper. thanks!

Which horse is/would be better? Green broke dapple grey Thoroughbred, or a well trained chesnut Quarter Horse? When I originally went out to buy a horse I wanted a horse I could practice and learn jumping with(I know how to jump I just wanted a horse that could safely take me to higher and more advanced jumps), I wanted to be able to trail ride, and go to shows. I am 5' 8", and about 110 pounds, so my weight isn't an issue its my height. I have owned Azim(the Thoroughbred) since August and I have learned alot from him but I have not really been able to do what I wanted to do. I don't want to lose Azim because he was my dream horse! But I think it might be better for me to have a horse I can do what I want with...I am not sure if Daisy will be the right size for me. I am also sad of losing a gorgeous well built big horse, for a average-small horse. I thought I knew what would be best for me but now I am thinking what if I could work with my Thoroughbred and we could make it through this rough patch? I am an intermediate rider I don't know alot about specific Dressage stuff, or Hunt seat for that matter, but I have alot of horse sense and my instructors have always said I have natural ability. Paddy O' Raider a.k.a. Azim- Off the track dapple grey Thoroughbred, 7 years old, 17hh(approx), basic training, he jumps, w/t/c, however he has never been shown, he hasn't learned how to trail ride, he bucks on the lunge line sometimes, and he gets too excited going over jumps sometimes and he takes off. GORGEOUS horse with lots of potential he just needs work. He is also a very sweet boy and he is quite playful. -OR- Daisy Does It a.k.a Daisy- Quarter Horse mare, chesnut with a white star on her forehead, 10 years old, 15.2hh(approx, I think shes closer to 15.0), was abused as a baby, the she was taught western, then she became a lesson horse, the she was bought and her new owner helped her get over her abuse completely. She knows western, english,trail riding, she has been shown, she jumps up to 3 feet with potentiaal to go a bit higher,she is very sweet and docile, you can walk right behind her or even under her with out her kicking, she doesn't nip,kick,rear,buck(not on the lunge line either. Which one? Thank you everyone in advance. I do not have the budget for a trainer, I might be able to get some help from others at the barn, but I am pretty much all on my own. sorry I keep adding new stuff, but I am also a little worried about size, I am probobly going to get taller I don't want to get a horse I will outgrow...

How do I make him responsive? (Natural Horsemanship!)? I'm working with a Left Brain Introvert (Parelli Personality Profile). He is clever, but very very unresponsive, unmotivated, easily bored, and can be stubborn and lazy. He's usually ok-ish under saddle, but canter and lope transitions need work, and he doesn't back or turn too well. I tried doing some ground work with him. I started by trying to teach him to lunge. But...he really didn't want to move! I got him to trot may be two step, and it was harp just to tall him to walk! I did everything! Stomping, waving, tossing the rope at his hindquarters, and even threw the lunge whip all over him! He didn't respond to anything! So, I tried some other work. I played the parreli game (sorry..I totally spaced on the name) where you throw the rope all over them. he, obviously, was fine with positively all of it. I thought him to pivot on his fore-hand from the ground (barley!), and then tried the porcupine game...he wouldn't budge until I pushed all my weight against him! SO I tried to teach him to back bwigglingng the rope...literallyly had to jerk it like a maniac for him to back a step! I aw really interested in training, and natural horsemanship, but I just don't know where to go from here! He's 19, so i don't know what kind of crazy things might have made him this way. The only thing that scares him I know of, is being shod. he's terrified of hot metal! They have to have him barefoot.(Please don't suggest anything that makes him work out of fear! natural horsemanship only, please!) Also, i was thinking about buying him. Should I maybe hold out for a more sensitive horse?? wow! this is really long! sorry! Sorry about the crazy spelling...Im tired!

Mini horses are they a good experience for young riders to help them learn about training? I have a ten year old and she rides with a theraputic riding program,(she is high functioning autistic). We are planning a move to a home with at least an acre.When we move I was thinking a mini horse would help her with learning to train and tune into horse behavior. She is a natural in the saddle with schooling in dressage, she is also very good with animal behavior, what do you think?By the way,she will continue to ride with a program in our new home state ,but we would be straped to own our very own horse or pony. I know this is not a riding horse, this would be to help her become a future trainer or at least give her experiences that might be more dangerous with larger horses. The mini's can jump and pull little carts and can compete for prizes at shows just for them. My daughter is great with the pony she currently rides has been riding for 3yrs. I would help her with the training of the mini, her disability shows up socially with her peers but is hard to detect by adults. She is at a place where she is more like a gifted/LD child. She helps care for our pug and two parrotlets currently in case this helps-this little guy would not be for riding as some keep saying and it is more of a companion with possible benifits of chores and equipment being more her size to handle. Thanx

natural horsemanship help! NEED ADVICE!! ? i have couple questions, so i will list them. please answer what you can: 1. I bought a yearling draft cross a few months ago and have been going over the basics with him. things have been going well. I've done some parelli with him he has done pretty well. I'm starting to realize how difficult this may become. what a huge undertaking this is. i have no level one parelli because i can't afford to buy anything. can someone spell out what parelli level one is all about, like tasks and techniques? 2. every time i go out to play with my horse, i feel like i have no plan. what things should come first when naturally training a horse? what skills should be the priorities? 3. i am a young person. i have about ten years experience with horses, 6 years experience with unbroken horses. whenever an adult hears that i am training a very young horse, they tell me i am naive and that it was a big mistake to buy him. i know it seems like i have bitten off more than i can chew, but i really feel i can train this baby as well as they could (i know people who have been training horses for 20 years who don't know anything about horses). when people tell me those things it makes me feel like i shouldn't be doing this at all. i don't want to give up, but i find it difficult to carry on without one of their hurtful comments knocking me down. how can i keep my head held high?

Horse Ranting >>>>>Come Here I have noticed that the horse forum has been a little boring lately. And there isn't much to answer. But I have got some questions for you to answer.It is horse ranting of course! So come and rant, and have some fun!!!! 1. Tell about your horse (ie. give a pic, name, age, what disciplines do you do with your horse, breed, etc. etc. etc.) 2. Favorite style of riding (English, Western or Australian)? Why? 3. What is your favorite breed of horse? Why? 4. What is your favorite breed of Pony? Why? 5. What do you hate about the horse world? 6. What is your favorite thing about the horse world? 7. What is your favorite Equestrian company to buy from? (Big D, Jeffers, etc. etc. etc.) 8. Do you believe in Parelli Natural horsemanship? Why or Why Not? 9. What was you worst fall? 10. What was your funniest fall? 11. What is your Riding Stable/Barn/Farm like? 12. What is your favorite horse website? 13. What questions on Y!A do you hate from the horse forum? 14. Do you train your horses yourself or have a trainer do it? Why? 15. Any horse stories you would like to tell? 16. Any thing else you want to say... Thanks. And I hope you enjoy doing this. (I will post my answers, later) To the first person who answered: Australian is a riding style, it is similar to an English Saddle. I know some one who rides Australian!

How do YOU start a new horse? Some of the more recent questions have got me wondering... How do you start a new horse? A few things to keep in mind: 1. My question is not: How does a person go about training a new horse. It is: How do YOU train a new horse. You. Yourself. I am interested in seeing what different methods people use. 2. If you are going to just say "Natural Horsemanship methods :) " could you please be a little more specific. Either say who's methods you follow, or give a very brief description. 3. Give a guesstimate on how many horses you have successfully trained. Be honest.... no one likes a liar. 4. Give an idea of what kind of horses you primarily have trained. For example; wild horses, green broke horses, higher level dressage, etc... 5. Give an idea of what kind of training you have had.

help me with my horse...........? he won't follow me with the halter on. its not trust or bond issues. he just is stubborn and just plain lazy. i've tried having constant pressure until he walks forward. he does eventually walk forward, but this isn't practical when im leading him out of the pasture and he's standing there when other horses are trying to escape. i've also tried shaking the rope hard and it seems to work eventually but not as effective as i want and he only walks a couple steps when i do this and then he stops again. right now he uses a nylon halter but what if i used a rope halter like this? http://cgi.ebay.com/Natural-Horseman-Diamond-Rope-Training-Halter-Blue-BL_W0QQitemZ310046983323QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?_trksid=p3286.m20.l1116#ebayphotohosting what about this and then when he responds well to it then move on to the rope halter and then the nylon http://cgi.ebay.com/Natural-Horseman-Diamond-Rope-Training-Halter-Blue-BL_W0QQitemZ310046983323QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?_trksid=p3286.m20.l1116#ebayphotohosting i have heard a couple of bad things about the second one though, like the horse might start rearing up, or if you don't know how to use it it can hurt the horse. what do you think, and any tips for trying to get him to move with a nylon? or should i try a be nice halter THANKS he knows how to lunge, anyways, if you guys check back and want to edit what do you think of my method. step 1: attach halter step 2: say walk on or cluck once to get him to start walking and put pressure on the rope step 3: if he takes a step praise him and give him a treat (bite size nuggets thnk they are called) step 4: if he doesn't move tap him with the whip in butt area and say walk on/tap to get him to move, if he takes a step praise and treat. step 5: if this doesn't work try tapping him where i'd kick him while riding or try tickling his feet or whatever one of the first people answered while i say walk on/cluck once step 6: if any of the methods work give treats when he walks a couple steps, slowly increase how many steps and still gives treats, once he gets good at this (i know it will take many days) do it with less treats and then eventually none step 7: if this fails i'll try one of your guys plan so what do you think about my plan, he is very treat motiva motivated, i understand this will take more than one time. i will proably keep it to ten mintue sessions twice a week (sat. sun.) and i'll end on a good note. is this idea good?

Chris Cox video "Creating the natural headset"? What do u know about this video? Do you think it is really usefull and does it work? Could i use it to train my horse for western pleasure and walk trot? thnx.

Belgian Draft Horse in Dressage? Could a Belgian DRAFT Horse (not Belgian warmblood), if given the right training and time, be used for dressage above the lower levels? I've seen a Fjord do higher level dressage as well as a Percheron. I know Belgians don't necessarily have the natural talent like a warmblood, but could they still perform a piaffe or passage or half-pass or anything upper-level if given the proper training and lots of patience and time?

Can I train my horse to lengthen his trot? He has a natural dramatic up and down motion, but he has great stamina and would like to start training for endurance rides. I would like him to step more forward than up to not waste as much energy. I mean even with his higher steps, he still oversteps himself several inches, I just feel like he could do better with the lengthened stride. He has a natural dramatic up and down motion, but he has great stamina and would like to start training for endurance rides. I would like him to step more forward than up to not waste as much energy. I mean even with his higher steps, he still oversteps himself several inches, I just feel like he could do better with the lengthened stride. I ride western style with an endurance saddle. No formal training. oops, didn't mean to copy that again He is a Morgan horse, gov't bred to answer his breed question

What to do with lame and unruly horse? I got my horse when he was 5 1/2 months old. I had a trainer and we worked with him with Natural Horsemanship and he did really well. One day he ran into a fence and messed up his hind leg so we had to stop training for a while. Soon after his front leg pasterns were really upright an then they actually knuckled over (genetic defect) and several surgeries later only one of his front legs is normal and the other one still knuckles over sometimes, my vet said there really isn't much more to be done to fix this and he won't be ridable anyway. During the time he had all of these surgeries, there was no more training because he was stall bound. My vet still advises not to over exert his legs (he is 4 years now). He is so dangerous! He kicks and bites has no respect and is fearless. I'm afraid he will hurt me or someone else. I can't sell a permanently lame horse and he is actually souring me on horses, all I do is clean up after him and I never get to ride at all anymore. Natural horsemanship seems to involve a lot of running the horse around (not an option). I feel bad that I am seriously considering having him destroyed, but I can't spend the next 20 years supporting a dangerous horse and not being able to ride. He isn't really a "rescue" situation, and I can't sell him because nobody would want a lame horse. I'd almost rather put him down humanely but I don't think that is the most ethical thing to do. Are there types of training that aren't so physical? I am at my wits end with this horse. I DO not want him to end up with a meat packer, I'd rather put him down humanely than risk that! Um, yeah, horses and bicycles are not the same. And horses aren't like dogs, you don't get them to pet them, you get them to ride. Also...he needs his leg wrapped for support daily and of course he has to act like a jerk about it. Thanks for your advice all. I'm still not sure how to handle the situation. It just seems stupid for me to spend so much money on an animal that is making me MISERABLE. Also...he does get out every single day now, he's still mean though. He is in no way mistreated though- it seemed like some of you were getting that impression. I'm the one being mistreated here! Anyway, thanks again, except to the salami guy. Thanks again! And FYI, I have another horse who is 24 and he hasn't been ridable for years due to navicular but he is still sweet and wonderful- so this isn't JUST about not being able to ride. He is the young ones pasture mate, I don't know what will happen when the older one passes away.

I want to know what kind of sports/riding I can do with my horse....Please Read!:)? I have a 10 year old Saddlebred gelding. He was a stallion for about 5-6 years and most likely has a baby out there somewhere (it's not on his records but he acts like he has had a foal the natural way before). Being a stallion for so long, he still acts like a stallion and is a little harder to ride and needs an experienced rider, but other than that he does pretty good. I want to put his mind to something, though. He would be a good show horse in the Saddlebred circuit, but I don't want to have to put him with a trainer and then only be able to ride him once a week...I already have a horse for that. This is my for-fun horse. I want something that I can train him to do (I am an experienced rider so I'm not limited that much) but not something extreme like competetive trail riding. I want to do something simple with him that would keep his mind set on something...... Here are some pictures of him so you can see what he's like: http://good-times.webshots.com/album/560251610HuiAUo I have better pictures of him on the second page;) Thank you!:) I ride him Saddleseat and my Dad mentioned Dressage, but he holds his head high and he steps high, so I don't think he would make a very good Dressage horse... We have taken him out on trails before and he does fine as long as he's between horses. I have thought of getting him used to a lot more noise and taking him to a 4-H show to see how he reacts...But he definitely needs something to work for and something that will put his mind to work.

Has Natural Horsemanship gone too far? Don't get me wrong and start yelling at me. Hear me out first. I'm pretty big on NH. Clinton Anderson is my favorite clinician & natural horseman. However, I've noticed how obsessed some people are with never upsetting, disciplining, or correcting their horses. [I'm NOT saying everyone does this. Its just the fact that those who DO tend to be rather excited about letting themselves be heard.] On principle, they pronounce whips, spurs, and other training aids evil. I just think they don't grasp the difference between disciplining a horse and punishing it. And riding them is another story. Horses aren't just pets. They can get dangerous. I read this article: http://everyrider.typepad.com/everyrider/2007/02/natural_horsema.html I agree wholeheartedly with it. What are your opinions? Have the well-meaning people of the natural horsemanship world taken it too far? I know not everyone has, but do you think these people who HAVE just don't understand, or is it something else? Sorry this isn't in the Pets - Horses section, my computer is being stupid and wouldn't let me browse through the categories, so I had to pick the one closest to my topic on the "recommended topics." Grr. Stupid computer. & Parelli lovers, don't hate me please. I know that some people just "click" with Parelli like I click with Clinton Anderson. But the only people I've seen follow Parelli in person have ruined their horses. Maybe just the people were those who I think take it too far. Maybe not. I don't know. And I'd also like to say I agree with the article I posted and say that being kinder to our horses is a BIG step in the right direction.... but there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. If I never disciplined my horse, he'd be a phsyco-maniac bent on destroying every bone in my body. But as it is, with CA's no-nonsense, get-it-done natural horsemanship, he is one of the most well-behaved horses in the barn. I also like Cris Cox & Craig Cameron. I just don't see them on RFD as much. Nor have I seen them in person. Krazee - Yay! I'm glad you liked the article. :) And good for bringing up the balance thing. The balance between "old school" and NH really needs to be worked out somehow. Thanks for the answer. You weren't rambling that much. I enjoyed it. :D

Horse Careers- online courses or degree? Do you know of any good Horse Career courses online, or equine science degrees that you can get online? I am looking to ''further'' my career. I am currently a Natural Hoof Trimmer, and trainer.. We are buying land soon, and I would like to open a Hoof Rehabilitation center, as well as do more training at home, and boarding... I'm not REALLY looking to become a veterinarian at the time... or that i'll ever want a ''job'' like that. I am more looking for a degree, or certification that would help further my carrer now.. Anything that would help me learn more, and keep me UTD on all of todays horse world. I would definitely like to get an equine degree of sorts though.. So if anybody knows of any good programs or online schooling, let me know!!! Thanks a ton! I am in the United States.. Minnesota to be exact. A little more information.. I've had people (people NOT interested in what I have to offer... Only interested in me because I am competition) bash my name, or what I do- because I do it without any degrees or certifications. That is one main reason why I would like to look into getting a degree. I wouldn't MIND going to an actual University and doing more ''hands on'' stuff than I would with an online degree.. But with being a stay at home mom, I would rather do ONLINE classes.

What Does Natural Horsemanship Mean to You? I'm just curious as to what Natural Horsemanship means to you? What do you think when you hear the term? I'm torn b/c not all "NH" is the same. Some of it is even classical dressage :P, seriously, that was my undergrad thesis. To me it's about building a relationship and working out horse-human herd dynamics, it's not about running a horse until it's too tired to resist riding, it's not about fancy gadgets or magic training devices. Many of the principles have been in use for thousands of years and were used by Ancient Civilizations, (*cough Xenophon cough*) Maybe the better question is "what is the stereotype of the NH practitioner?" Who are they? What do they do? Are they/why are they giving people who want a decent working relationship with their horse a bad name? MR- I don't know anything about Parelli, but your imagery made me laugh. LOL. I don't think Parelli is what I think of as NH though, hence my asking the question. I may have to revise my question. I agree that many folks get caught up on the body language, which is important, but so is attitude. People are afraid to be firm, and don't understand the difference between firm and cruel. Firm is "no, you can't have candy for dinner" Cruel is "I'm going to beat you cause you want candy for dinner." :P And keep your scurvy mitts off me saddle!

Off brand Parelli items? I was wondering if anyone knew of any websites that sell quality natural horsemanship items, like the stuff for Parelli. I'm starting my natural horsemanship training with my horse, and I need a place with prices that aren't as expensive. The thing is, I'm trying to find a reputable place with quality items. I have never bought natural horsemanship stuff off the internet. Please let me know if you know of a place you have had a good experience with. Thanks!!

Parelli vs. other natural horsemanship? I am starting training with a horse, but I do not own the Parelli program. It has given me great success with my other horse, Holly, but I do not know if I can afford it to train my other horse, Rodeo. If anyone can tell me some relatively cheap alternatives that are similar to Parelli I would greatly appreciate it! (: Thanks, Hannah Rose

How can I get my horse to have the desired headset for western pleasure? I have been training my Breeding Stock Paint Horse for western pleasure. She does have a natural low headset and does it without command in the walk. But with the jog and lope she keeps her head high. She does not respond to scissoring, how can I get her to lower her head? I've heard you can use a german martingale? But would like to train her without artifical aid. Sorry guys forgot to add, I use a wonder bit on the snaffle ring!

What horses are used in the mounted police force? Im after any info on the type of horse used in the mouted police force, i think its a cross between a draft & thoroughbred. I also want to know about the training regime and how we have changed their natural behaviour to benefit us. Thanks

how do you teach a horse to lay down? i use natural horsemanship with my mare and i want her to learn to lie down on command.what kind of command should i use and how should i train her to do so? thanks Ayshaya