First published in 1959, The Way to Perfect Horsemanship was immediately recognized as a classic work of equestrian literature. It stands out as the first book to provide a clear insight into the psychological makeup of the horse, its muscular system and the mechanics of movement. Instead of offering a method of training based on tradition, it provides readers with an understanding of the basic principles of training as well as an insightful explanation of the effects of the aids. Everyone with genuine sympathy for horses - whether teacher, trainer, competitor, judge or occasional rider - will benefit enormously from this book. Fortunately, this book is as enjoyable to read as it is informative.

(hardcover, photos, illustrations, 254 pgs.)

Excerpt from the book:

"Win the horse's hearth first, then speaketh to his brain; thou willst then be able to exploit his strength." (Arab proverb)

A Different order of priorities is unthinkable. A horse is an individual and not just another creature. Before we can gain his affection and then develop his understanding and composure, we will have to discover that he has moods and can be aloof, exuberant, timid, impertinent, obstinate. He cannot express these moods by wagging his tail or even by snorting, but in our presence, alongside him or on his back, he will either tense up because he distrusts us or relax because he does not fear us.

The behavior of all horses is conditioned by their first contact with humans. Even very young foals can be educated and we can give them a first lesson in submissiveness by tying them up at the manger when we give them their feed. All foals should be taught to go to the manger at certain times every day, and will then learn to enjoy finding themselves tied-up as much as they enjoy their oats. This is the first lesson on docility, the basis of future relations between man and horse. In the case of a particularly timid youngster, a short length of rope, about 20 cm long, should hang from the headstall so that we need not frighten him by seizing him by the nose to catch him. Daily tying-up will foster trust. At this stage, however, handling should be limited to leading the foal and teaching him to have his feet picked up. A handler who is not very experienced must avoid encouraging too much friendliness. The playfulness of a foal quickly turns into impertinence and the understandable human reflex of self-defense then provokes either anger and aggression, or fear and flight. Only a few minutes each day should be spent amongst young foals out at grass and it is a good thing always to have a walking stick, not ever to strike, but to ward off or firmly push away a youngster who becomes too inquisitive.