Ethological riding definition: natural approach

Ethological riding is a way of training horses that takes into account their natural behavior. It is based on what we know about ethology, which studies animals. This method seeks to create a relationship of trust and respect between the rider and the horse. We use gentle techniques and respect animal welfare.

Main ideas to remember:

• Ethological riding is a training method inspired by equine ethology
• It aims to establish a relationship of trust and mutual respect between the rider and the horse
• The goal is to communicate with the horse and understand its needs for “non-violent” training
• Ethological riding is gaining popularity in Western countries
• This approach opposes traditional coercive methods

What is ethological riding?

Ethological riding is based on gentle methods. It comes from American horsemanship of the “whisperers.” It also combines the discoveries of equine ethology regarding horse behavior. Its goal is to truly understand the horse to ensure its happiness and development.

Definition and basic principles

Ethological riding is different from equine ethology. The latter studies horse behaviors. Ethological riding uses this knowledge to improve communication and the relationship with horses.

• It is based on non-violent horse training, natural horse-human communication, and respect.
• Gentle riding methods and non-coercive riding techniques are important. They respect the scientific riding principles.

Ethological riding seeks to create a beautiful relationship between humans and horses. It takes into account the needs and welfare of the animal.

Origins and history of ethological riding

Ethological riding began to develop in the late 20th century, primarily in the Western United States. At that time, forms of gentle riding emerged thanks to American horsemanship.

Two pioneers of this method are Bill and Tom Dorrance. They had a significant impact, as did their student Ray Hunt. Together, they drew from the traditions of the buckaroo of the American West, creating an approach that is close to the nature of the horse.

After them, other important figures contributed, such as Monty Roberts. We can also mention John Lyons, Andrea Fappani, Klaus Ferdinand Hempfling, and Pat Parelli. They helped popularize and codify this approach.

• Ethological riding began in the late 20th century, with pioneers like Bill and Tom Dorrance, as well as Ray Hunt.
• This method is inspired by the buckaroo of the American West. It emphasizes clear communication between humans and horses, based on respect.
• Figures like Monty Roberts, John Lyons, Andrea Fappani, Klaus Ferdinand Hempfling, and Pat Parelli have also greatly contributed to its development.

Ethological riding was thus born from these exchanges, and it has continued to evolve. It seeks to establish a strong connection between humans and horses, based on respect.

Ethological riding definition: techniques and tools

Ethological riding focuses on the natural connection between horse and human. It respects the nature of the horse by treating it gently and improving trust. This is done through groundwork exercises and using specific tools like the ethological halter.

The goal is to encourage the horse to obey while remaining gentle and respectful, without violence or conflict.

Thanks to this approach, one can ride without a bit, simply with a rope around the neck. This is the result of the principles of non-violence that take into account the fact that the horse is a prey animal.

• Groundwork with the ethological halter to establish a relationship of trust
• The use of natural signals and positive reinforcement to communicate with the horse
• Careful observation of the horse's body language to understand its needs and state of mind
• Adapting aids and tempo to the animal's reactions to encourage cooperation
• Learning methods of non-violent training and gentle riding methods

This approach values mutual respect and true communication in the relationship between humans and horses. It differs from more authoritarian methods found in other areas of riding.

Critiques and controversies surrounding ethological riding

Ethological riding is becoming very popular, but it is not without criticism. Some doubt its necessity, claiming that traditional riding already uses its basic ideas.

It presents itself as a type of gentle training, based on non-violent communication between humans and horses. These methods resemble those of classical riding masters, according to them.

Despite the successes of teachers, the scientific foundations of these methods are questioned. Experts point out a lack of concrete evidence in the field of equine ethology.

The demonstrations of the “whisperers” raise another debate. Some believe these shows are more about magic than science, with obvious commercial purposes.

Even though it is controversial, ethological riding is progressing. This pushes its practitioners to discuss its techniques and scientific principles more.

Conclusion

Ethological riding is a new approach to training. It is based on the behavioral science of horses. Its goal: to create a relationship of respect and understanding between the rider and the animal. This method is becoming increasingly popular, especially in Western countries.

It is inspired by figures such as Monty Roberts and Pat Parelli. These coaches have successfully promoted this method thanks to their renown. Ethological riding advocates for training without violence or coercion, but based on gentleness and respect.

This approach encourages natural communication and mutual respect. It uses gentle and respectful techniques to educate horses. Despite the debates, ethological riding is establishing itself as an innovative way to treat horses.