Eight good horsemanship principles

Horsemanship can not be limited to a method or specific exercises, as all horses are different individuals and may react differently to the same stimuli. The most important knowledge in horsemanship is a basis made of principles that you will apply to all horses.

On my mind, these eight horsemanship principles are the most important of all.

1. All commands are given with our body, no verbal commands, no threatening behaviour.
2. Always make the wrong thing difficult, but not impossible, and the right thing easy.
3. Always offer the good deal first, the firm deal second.
4. Always keep the horse within your rectangle, offering it as THE safest place in the world.
5. Controlling independently the hind end from the front end is a key to establish mutual respect.
6. Always control the level of energy in the horse’s motion.
7. Let the horse be a partner, thinking and taking decisions.
8. Reward the slightest try.