Secondhand. The competent horseman or woman who aspires for the first time to train a horse needs practical advice on what to do and, more importantly, on how to do it. The more experienced trainer sometimes feels the need for advice, too. Heather Smythe has written a clear, concise book which gives step-by-step instructions on every aspect of training from foal management to basic dressage, e.g. collection, extension, and lateral work. There is no glib advice to ‘teach your horse to lead with the correct leg at canter’; the appropriate instructions are always given for each technique. Probable mistakes, pitfalls and lack of progress are anticipated and methods of avoiding or overcoming them explained. The author discusses when to reward and when to rebuke the young horse, and the best way of showing approval or disapproval.
Whatever your horse’s type and temperament Basic Horse Training will help you to get the best out of him. And, whether you are a complete novice or a trainer with some experience, if you follow the schooling programme and the dressage tests set out here you will, in the end, own a horse who goes well out hacking, in the dressage ring, show jumping, eventing, or in the hunting field.
Hardback.