Dec 10, 20241 min read

Horse-man-ship Mentality – Guide to using horses' natural instincts in training

Horse-man-ship Mentality – Guide to using horses' natural instincts in training

Cappel Cowboy Wisdom

The word “natural” before horsemanship creates a lot of buzz. When it comes to natural horsemanship training, the goal is to collaborate with the horse’s natural instincts, building a relationship based on trust, understanding, and communication.

It is about respecting the horse’s innate behaviors rather than imposing unnatural demands. In my years as a horseman and trainer, I have learned that true connection during horse training comes from understanding what the horse is already telling us –through their instincts and body language.

Natural horsemanship differs from more traditional horse training methods because it embraces the horse’s world, particularly their instincts to seek leadership, safety, and curiosity. By tuning into this, we can guide the horse in a way that feels natural to them.

Key Takeaways-

· Natural horsemanship uses the horse’s inherent instincts to communicate and train in a way that feels natural to them.

· For a natural horsemanship trainer understanding the horse’s fight or flight response is critical to reducing fear and creating a trusting bond.

· Most natural horsemanship practitioners make the right choice easy for the horse, and the wrong choices more difficult, so they can foster a willing and cooperative partner.

Mindful Riding,

Dennis Cappel - Master Horseman

Cappel Training and Shoeing

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