Western Dressage integrates the historically validated principles of dressage with the best of western stock horse tradition. It is a systematic and progressive system of training for the western horse and rider, in traditional stock tack with the purpose of enjoying a safe, pleasurable, versatile and useful working horse.
For many years the horse played a central role in the life of the people of the American West and of the state of Colorado. From the time the Spanish Conquistadors reintroduced horses to the North American continent, they became essential to daily life. The Pueblo Indians of the American Southwest believed horses to be so important to their survival, their horses were often buried with the dead to help them in the afterlife. Subsequent explorers and settlers also found the horse invaluable: the Pony Express, the fortune seekers carrying their goods across the plains and into the mountains of Colorado, the ranchers and the cowboys all depended on the horse as a partner, one that made their adventures, their travels, and their livelihoods possible
Today, the journey with our own horses is just beginning with Western Dressage. This will be a partnership which honors the horse for the central role he has played in our history. Come join us in this great adventure.
Hallmarks of the Western Dressage Horse
- Usefulness
- Rideability
- Willingness
- SAFETY
- Pure Gaits
- Lightness
- Calmness
- Steadiness
Hallmarks of the Western Dressage Rider
- Attentive
- Uses clear, effective, subtle and light aids to enhance communication with the horse
- Confident seat
- Light, responsive hands
Western Dressage Partnership:
- Dressage based training builds a willingness to work off the hindquarters, allowing the horse to move freely forward, laterally, and to the rear which enables the western horse to be a useful working partner.
A Western Dressage Partnership should culminate in a happy, harmonious, horse and rider relationship.
Download Our Brochure, “Western Dressage – Empowering Your Journey”
