Specialized Literature

A real treasure of knowledge that, in my opinion, belongs on every well-stocked horse book shelf. Sometimes it really is worth looking back a few decades.

The title is a bit misleading.

What makes this book especially valuable to me is how it explains the connections between breeding, horse management, health, and equine diseases.

Another classic by Blendinger that offers incredibly interesting insights into the natural behavior, psychology, and way of thinking of horses.
What I find especially valuable is how the book explains the connections between behavior, learning, and the way horses interact with humans.
An older reference book that really makes you think.

A wonderfully illustrated book that really brings horse anatomy and biomechanics to life.

What I especially like are the muscles and bones painted directly onto the horses. This makes it much easier to understand how horses move and how the different parts of their bodies work together.

A wonderfully illustrated book that really brings horse anatomy and biomechanics to life.

What I especially like are the muscles and bones painted directly onto the horses. This makes it much easier to understand how horses move and how the different parts of their bodies work together.

An incredibly beautiful anatomy book with detailed drawings of the skeleton, muscles, and how the horse moves.
What I especially like is how clearly the anatomical structures are shown. It's a great way to train your eye for conformation, proportions, and how the different parts of the horse's body work together.

A workbook for everyone who wants to do more than just read about horse anatomy, but really understand and remember it.
With over 250 anatomical drawings to label and work on yourself.
A great addition to traditional anatomy books, especially for trainer and breed judge education, or simply to refresh your knowledge of horse anatomy.

An incredibly detailed and informative book that explains the connections between saddle fit, anatomy, biomechanics, and horse health. It doesn't just focus on the saddle itself, but also on how it affects the movement of both horse and rider. An absolute recommendation for anyone who wants to become more independent when it comes to understanding and evaluating saddle fit.

I read this book in English years ago, and now there's a German translation available as well. A book that really helps you develop a better eye for horse movement. Susan E. Harris explains how gaits, balance, and conformation are connected, and why horses move the way they do. She puts into words exactly what I've observed and learned over the years through my own experience as a breed judge and trainer.

What actually happens inside a horse’s body when we train? And at what point does more training stop being better?

This book explores the biological principles behind performance, physical fitness, and recovery. It provides valuable knowledge to help you plan effective training, set the right training intensity, and avoid overworking your horse.

That's exactly why I find it worth reading.

Another book by Susan E. Harris that I can highly recommend. It explains how conformation, movement, and physical soundness are connected. With many detailed illustrations, Harris shows how certain conformation traits and leg deviations can affect a horse's movement, physical abilities, and overall health.

Which muscles are actually working during different movements? And what does that mean for effective training?

Daniela Schinko combines anatomical knowledge with practical information about muscle development and gymnastic exercises.

Especially interesting for anyone who wants to understand which muscles and structures they are working with during training – and why.

A book that makes you think about the art of riding. The authors explore the history of horsemanship, the relationship between humans and horses, and above all, the responsibility we have as riders.

For me, an important book that reminds us that good riding is not just about skill, but also about understanding, questioning what we do, and being willing to reflect on ourselves.

I found my copy by chance many years ago in a small, old equestrian shop.
Blendinger explores the relationship between humans and horses and shows how horses have influenced the development of our culture.
A philosophical look at nature that offers a different and deeper perspective on our shared history.