How to Pick a Horse Trainer

Picking a horse trainer involves more than looking for the person with the most ribbons on their barn door at the local show. Winning is not all that matters in horse trainers. The horse's well being must be the number one priority, after all, if all you want is ribbons there are plenty for sale, or you can scoop them out of the trash cans at the end of the show.

First and foremost the trainer must be fair. Fair means several things for both you and your horse. It means telling you if your horse can really do what you want it to do. It means being honest and up front about how much time and effort it will take to realize your goals. And lastly, and most importantly, it means treating your horse with respect.

A trainer cannot be about winning at all costs. This leads to unethical and in some cases illegal behavior. This leads to a miserable horse and a stressful barn environment. No one is having any fun. Life is too short to ruin your horse and hobby with this sort of mentality.

Always watch the trainer at their barn. Do not only judge the performance at the show. The barn is where the trainer's true self will show. A trainer that is certain that all of their methods are proper will not mind you dropping in (just don't take up their time, respect is a two way street). When the trainer rides watch the horse's expression. Is it relaxed, is it happy, does it look like it is willing and eager to do what the trainer is asking? Second look at the trainer, is she quiet on the horse? Can you see what she is asking? Are you able to see when the horse makes a mistake? How does she handle these situations?

A good trainer is always quiet on the horse. A good trainer doesn't yank on the mouth or flail with their legs. Many trainers can win on a winning horse, its your job to ensure that the horse isn't ruined in the process. Do not believe that only ugly riding wins.

A good trainer will always look relaxed, and will fit the punishment with the crime. A missed lead is a misdemeanor, striking and biting are capital crimes. A trainer who handles the misdemeanors with aplomb and rides through little mistakes will create a willing partnership with your horse that will shine in front of the judges.