Western Horse Training Methods

By Rena Sherwood

Instructions

Types

Step 1:
There are two main types of Western horse training methods, generally referred to as breaking and round pen training. Breaking is the traditional method, while round pen training began with trainer Monty Roberts.

History

Step 1:
The traditional way of breaking a horse was to race him around a corral until tired, have many people rope him, saddle him up and buck until exhaustion. Then, he could be ridden.

Effect

Step 1:
Breaking a horse could make a very obedient horse. However, this also promoted injury and distrust between horse and rider.

Considerations

Step 1:
In contrast, round pen training is a far more gentle method of training a horse based on the horse's need to turn to the trainer for company and rewards.

Fun Fact

Step 1:
Monty Robert's training methods are now considered the standard for gentling all horses and ponies, not just Western horses.

Photo/Video Credit

Image from Wikimedia Commons.

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