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How equitation science can elucidate and refine horsemanship techniques
Deborah Goodwin1, Paul McGreevy, Natalie Waran
1School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK. d.goodwin@soton.ac.uk
Veterinary Journal (London, England : 1997)
|April 28, 2009
Summary
Modern horse training shifts from dominance to sensitive communication, utilizing natural horsemanship and equitation science. This approach emphasizes understanding equine behavior for more effective and humane training methods.
Area of Science:
- Equitation science
- Equine ethology
- Animal behavior
Background:
- Traditional horse training often relied on dominance and submission, sometimes involving harsh methods.
- Problem behaviors in horses were frequently addressed with punitive techniques or by seeking expert intervention.
Observation:
- Horses often exhibit evasions and flight responses when subjected to forceful training.
- So-called 'horse whisperers' achieved results through methods not easily replicated or understood by the average owner.
- Natural horsemanship practitioners are now more open about their effective, behavior-based techniques.
Findings:
- Sensitive and consistent communication reduces misunderstandings between horses and trainers.
- Natural horsemanship utilizes observation of equine behavior, responding to subtle cues.
- Learning theory and equine ethology explain behavior modification in both traditional and modern horsemanship.
Implications:
- Equitation science offers a framework for understanding and improving horse training practices.
- Measuring training effectiveness can unify traditional methods with emerging, science-based approaches.
- Humane and effective horse training is achievable through understanding equine behavior and communication.
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