Equine Psychology & Behaviour

Equine Psychology & Behaviour

This engaging and in-depth course gives riders, owners, and equestrian professionals the knowledge to better understand how horses think, feel, and respond to the world around them. You’ll explore the psychology behind equine behaviour and gain practical tools to confidently approach unwanted or difficult behaviours in a calm, informed, and effective way.
Study HoursApproximately 45 total study hours
AttendanceOnline, but access to horses locally is recommended
Modules2
Entry RequirementsReasonable all round experience in horse management (BHS Stage 2 equivalent)
DurationOpen ended
Tutor SupportYes
Age16+ Mature students welcomed
ProviderHannah Haskew

£250.00

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Rooted in modern, welfare-focused horsemanship, this course goes far beyond the basics. It explores how horses perceive their environment, how they interpret human behaviour, and how to build trust and communication through thoughtful management.

Whether you’re aiming to improve your relationship with your horse, explore a new career path, or simply deepen your appreciation of equine behaviour, this course will challenge what you think you know — and leave you with insight that changes everything.

Students often tell us this is the course that changed the way they see horses forever.

Whether you’re a knowledgeable rider, a horse owner, or someone with aspirations in equine behaviour, this course offers a fascinating and practical insight into how horses think, feel and interact with us. You’ll learn not just the “what” but the “why” behind equine reactions and habits — and how your own approach influences your horse’s behaviour.

You’ll receive seven thoughtfully structured modules filled with real-world examples, research-based theory, and assignments that challenge you to apply your learning. Self-assessment tasks and tutor-guided projects encourage deeper understanding, while optional certification offers a chance to receive personalised feedback on your final work.

You won’t be left to figure it all out alone. Students benefit from free tutor support throughout, and your tutor is available to help guide your thinking, clarify complex topics, or simply offer reassurance.

This course fits around your life. You can start immediately, work at your own pace, and revisit the materials anytime. Some students set aside an hour a week, others dive in more intensively — it’s up to you. Most complete it within 25–45 hours of study.

Even students with less experience find real value in the content, especially when they can observe horses regularly to reflect on herd behaviour and responses. More experienced participants have described it as “eye-opening,” “grounding,” and “the missing link” in their horsemanship journey.

• Introduction to horse psychology and behaviour
• The importance of freedom and turnout
• Why Does My Horse?
• Herd Structure
• Behaviour of a wild herd
• Relationships and Social Education
• The Human Effect – how what and why
• Space
• Grazing / Feeding
• Reproduction
• Weaning
• Stabling
• Companionship and Turnout
• Hygiene
• Hoof Management
• Dentistry
• Worming
• Clipping / Rugging / Grooming
• Reactions – to fear
• Flight
• Horses and stress
• what it means & what it does
• The horses senses and body language
• The horse’s mind
• How horses learn
• Reinforcement – positive and negative
• Communicating with the horse
• How and why?
• “Problem” horses
• Understanding what are they
• Why are they like it
• what to do.
• General care and safety relating to psychology and stress
• What are:
o “Horse Training”
o “Natural Horsemanship”?

  • Confident horse owners who want to get to know their animals better
  • Equine professionals looking to expand their knowledge
  • Anyone interested in behaviour-based training
  • Curious equestrians who want to understand what makes horses tick

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