Education
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Become a Horse Trainer?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

A love of horses and a desire to focus your life on them may lead you to become a horse trainer. The first step you should take is researching as much as possible about the training and skills necessary to become a horse trainer, and exactly what a day in the life of a trainer consists of. If possible, you should contact a horse trainer who can lend you some insight as to what the job entails and how to get the skills and qualifications you need to achieve your goal. Research training courses available in your area and take note of the tuition charges so you can start planning a budget.

Enrolling in an equine college is a great way to become a horse trainer, as these colleges will give you all the training and certification you need to achieve your goal, but you will need to do a fair amount of research to find a reputable equine college that will fit your budget. Again, a great place to start is to meet with a current horse trainer who can tell you how he or she got started in the trade and point you in the direction of reputable schools or courses that will help you become a horse trainer.

A prospective horse trainer should learn what a day on the job is like.
A prospective horse trainer should learn what a day on the job is like.

Becoming an apprentice to a horse trainer is another great way to become a horse trainer yourself. Visit stables in your area and see if any of them would be willing to hire you, either for pay or on a non-paying basis, to act as an apprentice to the current horse trainers. You may end up cleaning stalls or performing other menial tasks, but this is a great way to develop a relationship with people in the field who can help you on your way to become a horse trainer.

Horse training equipment includes a saddle.
Horse training equipment includes a saddle.

Sometimes a specific trainer or stable will offer coursework or instruction that will help you become a trainer within their company. This is a great way to become a trainer if you have a particular stable in mind that you would like to work for. There may be costs associated with these courses or instruction, but in many cases, the instruction may be free of charge. Be sure to visit stables in your area to find out if such courses or instruction are available to you. Be sure to find out if any certifications are required in your state or region in order to become a trainer, and find out if such certification is offered by the stable.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A prospective horse trainer should learn what a day on the job is like.
      By: Eric Isselée
      A prospective horse trainer should learn what a day on the job is like.
    • Horse training equipment includes a saddle.
      By: virgonira
      Horse training equipment includes a saddle.
    • A horse trainer must have a love of horses.
      By: Wildcat
      A horse trainer must have a love of horses.