Natural horsemanship emphasizes building a partnership with horses based on trust, communication, and mutual respect. Natural horsemanship is guided by core principles that emphasize trust and communication.

Moving away from traditional force-based methods, this approach fosters a deeper understanding between horse and handler. Harsh training methods, often originating from the American West, were created to obtain quick results but at the expense of the horse's well-being.

While there are many different things practitioners do, the underlying principles remain consistent. Portugal, with its rich equestrian heritage, is home to several centers and professionals dedicated to this compassionate training philosophy.

The horse world and horse industry have seen a shift as these principles have been created and adopted by more practitioners.

Understanding Natural Horsemanship

At its core, natural horsemanship is a philosophy for training horses that is rooted in understanding their life as a prey animal and as a unique animal. Techniques often include groundwork exercises, which serve as a foundational technique in teaching and training horses, as well as body language cues and positive reinforcement, aiming to create a willing and cooperative partner rather than a submissive one.

Natural horsemanship teaches that horses must be understood through their body language and non-verbal cues, and the idea is to communicate using more than just words.

The use of specific words, and even a single word, can have a significant impact on the horse's response. The benefits of this approach include a more willing, trained partner and a deeper relationship.

Practitioners often use a variety of techniques, but the core principles remain the same.

Monty Roberts: A Pioneer in the Field

Monty Roberts, often referred to as the original “horse whisperer,” revolutionized horse training with his “Join-Up®” method, drawing from the tradition of horse whispering that emphasizes gentle, relationship-based techniques and has greatly influenced the development of natural horsemanship.

Observing wild horses, Roberts identified a non-verbal language he termed “Equus,” which he uses to communicate and build trust with horses without force. His techniques have gained international acclaim, and his Equus Online University offers extensive resources for those interested in learning his methods .

Other influential figures in natural horsemanship include Bill Dorrance, known for his foundational work in gentle training methods rooted in the Oregon cattle ranching tradition, and John Lyons, who teaches psychology-based, humane horse training techniques.

Monty Roberts also demonstrated his methods at Windsor Castle, receiving royal endorsement and highlighting the global recognition of natural horsemanship.

Essential Equipment and Tools in Natural Horsemanship

In natural horsemanship training, the choice of equipment is as much about philosophy as it is about practicality. The natural horsemanship movement specifically encourages the use of tools that foster clear communication, gentle training methods, and mutual respect between horse and human.

Many natural horsemanship trainers have moved away from traditional equipment that relies on physical force, instead opting for gear that supports a more nuanced and empathetic approach.

One of the most recognizable tools in the natural horsemanship world is the rope halter. Unlike standard headcollars, rope halters are designed to apply gentle, targeted pressure, allowing for subtle cues and a more refined dialogue with the horse.

Most natural horsemanship practitioners prefer rope halters because they help create a softer, more responsive connection, reducing the risk of fear or resistance during training.

Communication ropes, often longer and heavier than typical lunge lines, are another staple for many natural horsemanship trainers. These ropes are used to guide groundwork exercises, helping trainers teach horses to respond to body language and light pressure rather than force. This approach not only builds trust but also enhances the horse’s confidence and willingness to engage.

The multifunctional horse bridle is also gaining popularity among natural horsemanship advocates. These versatile bridles can be configured in several ways—such as side-pull, chin-cross, or jaw-cross—offering riders flexibility and the option to go bitless. Many natural horsemanship trainers and horse owners favor bitless bridles, as they minimize discomfort and support a more positive riding experience.

Harsher methods, such as the use of severe bits or excessive physical force, are generally discouraged within the natural horsemanship movement, as they can undermine the trust and understanding that are central to this training method.

High-profile practitioners like Pat Parelli and Monty Roberts have played a significant role in popularizing these tools and techniques, demonstrating how gentle training methods and the right equipment can transform the relationship between horse and rider.

As Linda Parelli often emphasizes, the most important thing is to understand the horse’s perspective and to choose tools that facilitate effective, compassionate communication.

Ultimately, the selection of equipment in natural horsemanship is a matter of personal preference, with many natural horsemanship trainers and riders experimenting to find what works best for their unique partnership. However, the guiding principle remains the same: to create a harmonious, respectful, and effective connection between horses and humans.

By embracing the right tools and techniques, horse trainers and owners can develop the skills needed to train horses in a way that prioritizes well-being, understanding, and lasting trust.

Natural Horsemanship Centers in Portugal

Quinta Carvalhas – Golegã

Located near Golegã, known as Portugal’s horse capital, Quinta Carvalhas offers a unique blend of horsemanship and equine-assisted therapy. Using “The Gentle Touch®” method, the center focuses on the well-being of both horse and rider, providing training sessions and therapeutic interactions.

Sundance Ranch – Odemira

Sundance Ranch provides immersive week-long courses in natural horsemanship and Western riding. Emphasizing trust and harmony, their programs cater to both beginners and experienced riders, combining groundwork with trail rides through the scenic Alentejo region.

Horsemanship Foundation Training – Peniche

Led by 2-Star Parelli Professional Judith Kopf, this center offers courses based on the Parelli Natural Horsemanship program. Situated at Flowcean Farm on Portugal’s Silver Coast, the facility provides foundation training for horses and humans, promoting a natural and empathetic approach to horsemanship.

Cavalo Coaching – Algarve

Cavalo Coaching specializes in equine-assisted coaching and natural horsemanship. Utilizing the Join-Up® method, they offer retreats and private lessons aimed at personal development and enhancing the horse-human connection.

Quinta do Cavalo Kiron – Sintra

As Portugal’s first center dedicated to Equine Assisted Interventions, Quinta do Cavalo Kiron offers psychotherapy and coaching sessions supported by equine specialists. Their programs focus on personal growth and emotional healing through guided interactions with horses.

The Therapeutic Power of Horses

Beyond training, natural horsemanship has therapeutic applications. Centers like Quinta Carvalhas and Quinta do Cavalo Kiron provide equine-assisted therapy, helping individuals overcome emotional challenges and build confidence through meaningful interactions with horses.

Natural horsemanship in Portugal is more than a training method; it’s a philosophy that honors the innate wisdom of horses. By emphasizing gentle, relationship-based techniques, natural horsemanship aims to achieve predictable results, setting itself apart from more traditional methods that often rely on force. Through the dedicated efforts of practitioners and centers across the country, this compassionate approach continues to enrich the lives of both horses and humans, fostering connections built on trust, respect, and mutual understanding.

‍