Building a strong bond
Natural horsemanship is an approach to horse training and handling that aims to build a strong bond and effective communication between humans and horses.
It emphasises understanding and working with the horse's natural instincts and behaviours, rather than relying solely on force or dominance.
Natural horsemanship methods typically involve observing and interpreting the horse's body language, learning about their herd dynamics, and working with their natural instincts rather than against them. The training techniques are often based on the principles of pressure and release, which involve applying pressure to cue the horse and releasing the pressure as soon as they respond correctly. This teaches the horse to associate their actions with specific cues and encourages them to seek release from pressure.
Groundwork is an essential aspect of natural horsemanship, where trainers work with horses on the ground before introducing riding. Ground exercises, such as leading, lunging, and desensitisation, help establish leadership, build trust, and develop clear communication between the horse and handler. This foundation on the ground sets the stage for a more cooperative and successful partnership under saddle.
The concept of natural horsemanship emerged in the latter half of the 20th century, with several influential trainers contributing to its development. One of the most well-known figures in this field is Tom Dorrance, who focused on understanding the horse's perspective and using non-confrontational methods to develop a partnership based on trust and respect.
Natural horsemanship also places importance on understanding the horse's psychology and addressing their physical and emotional needs. Trainers often emphasise the horse's need for social interaction, exercise, proper nutrition, and a safe environment.
While natural horsemanship is primarily focused on training horses, it has evolved into a broader philosophy of horsemanship that encompasses all aspects of horse care and management. It promotes a holistic approach to horsemanship that considers the horse's overall well-being and aims to create a harmonious partnership between horse and human.
It's important to note that there are different approaches and methods within the realm of natural horsemanship, as different trainers may have their own variations and interpretations. Some popular practitioners include Warwick Schiller, Russell Higgins, Monty Roberts, Buck Brannaman, and Clinton Anderson. Each has contributed their unique perspectives and techniques to the field.
Overall, natural horsemanship is a philosophy and training approach that seeks to develop a respectful and willing partnership between humans and horses, based on clear communication, trust, and understanding of the horse's nature and needs.
How does it help?
Natural horsemanship can address a wide range of issues and behaviour traits in horses. Here are some examples:
Fear and anxiety
Natural horsemanship techniques can help address and reduce fear and anxiety in horses. By building trust and confidence through positive experiences and effective communication, trainers can help horses overcome their fears and develop a more relaxed and willing mindset.
Ground manners
Natural horsemanship focuses on teaching horses good ground manners, such as standing quietly, leading respectfully, and respecting personal space. Through consistent training and clear communication, horses can learn to be well-behaved and cooperative on the ground.
Spookiness and desensitisation
Horses may exhibit spookiness or be reactive to certain stimuli, such as loud noises, unfamiliar objects, or sudden movements. Natural horsemanship techniques focus on desensitisation, gradually exposing horses to these stimuli in a controlled manner, teaching them to remain calm and responsive rather than reacting out of fear.
Bucking, biting, kicking and other undesirable behaviours
Natural horsemanship can address and correct undesirable behaviours like bucking, biting, and kicking. By understanding the underlying causes of these behaviours and addressing them through clear communication and appropriate training techniques, trainers can help horses develop more desirable and safe behaviours.
Herd-bound or barn-sour behaviour
Some horses may become excessively attached to their herd mates or reluctant to leave the barn area. Natural horsemanship methods can help horses become more independent and confident by establishing a trusting partnership with the handler and gradually exposing them to new environments.
Riding and performance issues
Natural horsemanship techniques can also address riding and performance issues. All ridden issues will usually relate back down to the ground. By focusing on clear communication, balance, and understanding the horse's natural movements on the ground, trainers can improve the horse's responsiveness, suppleness, and overall performance in various disciplines.
Get in touch
Contact Olive Branch Equestrian for more information about how we bring a natural horsemanship approach to your horse training.
