Updated for today’s beginning horse enthusiasts! 

If you’re just getting into the world of horses, there’s a lot to learn! Horses For Dummies gets beginning-level riders and aspiring first-time horse owners up to speed on all things equine! From selecting the right horse for you to feeding, grooming, and handling a horse, this book covers it all!

Featuring updates on breeds, boarding, nutrition, equipment, training, and riding—as well as new information on various equine conditions—this resource shows you how to keep your horse happy and take your riding skills to the next level.

• Features updated safety information 
• Includes more riding disciplines
• Offers tips for better nutrition for your horse
• Provides grooming and training recommendations

If you’re crazy about horses, this hands-on guide is all you need to giddy up and go!

Audrey Pavia is the former editor of Horse Illustrated magazine and an award-winning writer of numerous articles on equine subjects. The author of seven books about horses, she has also contributed to Thoroughbred Times, Horse & Rider, and many other animal magazines.

Janice Posnikoff, DVM, is a highly respected equine veterinarian with over 20 years experience. She is a graduate of the Western College of Veterinarian Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Canada.

Introduction 1

Part 1: Beginning with Horse Basics 5

Chapter 1: Welcome to the World of Horses 7

Chapter 2: Understanding Horses from Head to Hoof 17

Chapter 3: Perusing Popular Horse Breeds 39

Part 2: Selecting a Horse and the Stuff that Goes with Him 59

Chapter 4: Preparing to Make Your Purchase 61

Chapter 5: Making the Big Buy 87

Chapter 6: Getting into Gear with Horse Equipment 111

Chapter 7: Housing Your Horse Comfortably 151

Part 3: Taking Care of Your Horse 169

Chapter 8: Establishing an Everyday Routine 171

Chapter 9: Keeping Your Horse Clean and Pretty 183

Chapter 10: Preventing Equine Health Problems 207

Chapter 11: Examining and Treating Equine Health Troubles 219

Chapter 12: Giving Up Your Horse 255

Part 4: Handling Your Horse with Ease 263

Chapter 13: Working with Your Horse from the Ground 265

Chapter 14: Selecting a Riding Discipline 289

Chapter 15: Getting Ready Before You Mount 301

Chapter 16: Taking Control in the Saddle 311

Chapter 17: Staying Safe on (and around) Your Horse 333

Chapter 18: Competing on Horseback 345

Chapter 19: Riding for the Fun of It 363

Part 5: The Part of Tens 377

Chapter 20: Ten Horse Myths 379

Chapter 21: Ten Great Movies about Horses 385

Index 391