Secrets of the Horse

A Force-Free Approach to Horse Training that Builds Trust Between Horse and Rider

Secrets of the Horse is a groundbreaking guide for anyone seeking a deeper, more compassionate connection with their horse. Shelby Dennis challenges outdated training methods and misconceptions, offering a fresh, science-backed approach that prioritizes mutual understanding and trust between horse and rider. This book calls for an overhaul of modern horse training, a shift from domination and force to empathy, patience, and partnership.

Dennis explores the intersections between neurodivergence and interspecies communication, revealing how understanding these dynamics has transformed the way she interacts with horses. She also provides invaluable insights into the subtleties of horse body language, calming signals, displacement behaviors, and stress cues — tools that empower riders to recognize when a horse is overwhelmed or uncomfortable. With practical advice and thought-provoking ideas, Dennis offers an innovative new road map for the next generation of horse enthusiasts.