8 New Horse Books Reshaping Equestrian Life in 2025

Explore expert picks from Ami Cullen, Lucie Klaassen, and Jack Mauck offering fresh insights into Horse Books for 2025 enthusiasts

Updated on June 24, 2025
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The Horse world saw notable shifts in 2024 that continue to influence equestrian practices in 2025. Emerging approaches emphasize emotional bonds, mental enrichment, and innovative training techniques, reflecting a broader understanding of horses as sentient partners rather than mere animals. These developments are reshaping how people engage with horses, making this moment pivotal for horse lovers and professionals eager to stay ahead.

Leading voices like Ami Cullen, who navigated crisis leadership with 200 horses during a wildfire, and Lucie Klaassen, who integrates Polyvagal Theory into training, illustrate this evolution. Jack Mauck’s heartfelt stories deepen our appreciation of the human-equine bond, while Amanda Goble brings animal enrichment expertise from zookeeping to equine care, demonstrating the field’s expanding horizons.

While these eight books deliver some of the most current insights in horse care, training, and relationship building, you might also consider creating a personalized Horse book tailored specifically to your experience and goals. This approach helps you apply fresh 2025 trends directly to your unique equestrian journey.

Best for emotional resilience and leadership
Running Free offers a vivid look into the unexpected journey of Emme, who transitions from a world of privilege to the raw realities of managing 200 horses during a wildfire. Ami Cullen presents a story that goes beyond typical horse books by blending survival, leadership, and emotional growth, reflecting the latest insights into equestrian management under extreme conditions. This narrative not only reveals the challenges of horse care in crisis but also highlights the personal freedom found through embracing change, making it a valuable read for those drawn to the evolving landscape of horse-related leadership and life lessons.
2024·198 pages·Horse, Leadership, Survival, Animal Care, Trust Building

The breakthrough moment came when Ami Cullen, stepping away from a life tethered to privilege and expectation, found herself responsible for 200 horses amid a wildfire threat. Her story, told through the eyes of Emme, the equestrian director turned unexpected hero, offers more than survival drama; it explores the complexities of trust, leadership, and the emotional bonds between humans and horses. You learn how resilience and empathy grow in the face of crisis, with chapters delving into the practical aspects of horse care under pressure and the personal transformation that comes from embracing authenticity. This narrative suits anyone interested in equestrian life, personal reinvention, or the profound connections forged in extraordinary circumstances.

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Best for innovative horse training methods
Lucie Klaassen is an expert in horse training, body awareness, and mindset coaching, dedicated to helping horse owners understand their horses better. With a focus on the Polyvagal Theory, she provides insights that transform the relationship between horses and their handlers. Her deep knowledge and fresh approach make this book a valuable resource for anyone looking to create a more connected and trusting partnership with their horse.
2024·216 pages·Horse Training, Horse, Polyvagal Theory, Body Awareness, Mindset Coaching

Lucie Klaassen brings her expertise in horse training, body awareness, and mindset coaching to offer an intriguing perspective on how the Polyvagal Theory can reshape your connection with your horse. You’ll explore how understanding your horse’s autonomic nervous system allows you to foster safety and trust, shifting training from frustration to harmony. The book walks you through strategies for self-regulation and co-regulation, plus ways to convert trauma into trust, making it clear this is more than training tips—it's about transforming the relationship itself. If you're ready to rethink how you communicate nonverbally with your horse, this book offers a thoughtful, approachable guide.

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Best for custom training plans
This AI-created book on equine training and care is tailored to your specific background, interests, and goals. By focusing on the newest developments and discoveries of 2025, it offers a personalized experience that goes beyond generic advice. Since horse care and training are constantly evolving fields, having a custom book ensures you learn exactly what matters most to you and your horses. It’s like having a resource crafted just for your equestrian journey, helping you stay informed and inspired.
2025·50-300 pages·Horse, Equine Care, Horse Training, Behavioral Science, Mental Enrichment

This personalized book explores the latest developments and cutting-edge insights in horse care and training tailored to your interests and goals. It examines emerging 2025 discoveries in equine health, behavior, and training techniques, focusing on how you can apply these advancements personally. By matching the content to your background, it reveals practical knowledge about new care approaches, mental enrichment, and innovative training methods that reflect the evolving understanding of horses as sentient partners. This tailored guide helps you stay ahead of trends and deepens your connection with horses through focused, relevant exploration.

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Best for equine-human relationship stories
Horses I Have Known and Their People stands out by sharing fresh stories that reflect a lifetime with horses rather than focusing on typical training manuals. The book reveals new insights into the bond between horses and their humans, highlighting how these relationships evolve and teach valuable life lessons. Jack Mauck’s approach blends humor and heartfelt moments, making it a fitting read for anyone fascinated by the nuances of equine companionship and the personal growth it can inspire. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or someone who simply loves horses, this book offers a unique perspective on the enduring connection between horse and human.
2024·164 pages·Horse, Animal Behavior, Equestrian Life, Training Insights, Human-Animal Bond

Drawing from over six decades immersed in equine life, Jack Mauck offers a collection of vivid stories that capture the personalities and lessons learned from the horses he’s known. Rather than focusing on technical training or breed specifics, this book explores the human-horse relationship through memorable anecdotes that reveal patience, humor, and unexpected insights into both animals and their caretakers. You’ll encounter tales of spirited colts and wise mares, each illustrating how horses can shape character and perspective. This is ideal if you’re drawn to the emotional and experiential side of horsemanship rather than just practical guides or scientific studies.

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Best for practical horse care guidance
Heather Smith Thomas offers a commonsense approach that puts the whole horse at the center of care practices, blending mental and physical health considerations for the modern horse owner. This guide covers essential topics like nutrition, seasonal adjustments, and safe handling, providing practical knowledge to keep horses healthy and comfortable. Designed for serious horse people, it addresses the evolving needs of horsekeeping by encouraging owners to understand and respond to their horse’s unique requirements. This book serves as a thoughtful resource for anyone aiming to deepen their expertise and improve the overall well-being of their horses.
2024·308 pages·Horse Owner, Horse, Horse Care, Animal Husbandry, Nutrition

After analyzing decades of equine care, Heather Smith Thomas developed a guide that treats horses as complete beings, not just animals to maintain. You’ll learn how to address both mental and physical health with practical advice on nutrition, seasonal adjustments, safe handling, and foot care, making horsekeeping more intuitive and centered on the horse’s well-being. The book’s focus on understanding your horse’s needs rather than just routines makes it especially useful for serious horse owners who want to deepen their connection and improve daily care. If you seek straightforward, experience-based knowledge that respects the complexity of horse management, this book will fit your goals well.

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Best for diverse training exercises
151 Polework Exercises for Horses stands out by offering a substantial collection of imaginative exercises that refresh traditional arena work. Elaine Heney presents a methodical yet playful approach that captures emerging trends in horse training, emphasizing variety and fun alongside technical improvement. This book supports riders from beginners to advanced levels by providing clear, scalable exercises that address core horse training elements like straightness, bending, and impulsion. It’s a practical companion for anyone eager to expand their training toolbox and deepen the connection with their horse through polework.
2024·245 pages·Horse, Horse Training, Equestrian Exercises, Polework, Suppleness

Elaine Heney’s 151 Polework Exercises for Horses brings a fresh, hands-on approach to equestrian training by focusing on diverse polework routines that enhance your horse’s straightness, suppleness, and rhythm. You’ll find a wide range of exercises—from simple single-pole setups to complex 14-pole layouts—designed to improve lateral work, impulsion, and collection, suitable for all skill levels. The book doesn’t just offer drills; it encourages you to engage playfully and creatively with your horse, making training more enjoyable and effective. Whether you're looking to deepen groundwork or add dynamic canter pole sessions, this book delivers practical variety that keeps both horse and rider challenged and motivated.

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Best for future-ready techniques
This AI-created book on horse training and management is tailored to your specific interests and skill level, focusing on the newest developments and discoveries for 2025. By sharing your background and goals, you receive a book that explores the latest trends most relevant to you. Personalization here means you get to dive into future-ready techniques and management insights that directly align with your equestrian journey.
2025·50-300 pages·Horse, Horse Training, Equine Management, Emerging Research, Behavioral Science

This personalized book explores the latest advancements and emerging trends in horse training and management projected for 2025 and beyond. It delves into innovative techniques, recent research findings, and evolving perspectives that shape modern equestrian care. Tailored to match your background and specific interests, the content focuses on cutting-edge developments and future-ready practices that keep you ahead in the field. You’ll discover how new discoveries impact horse behavior, training approaches, and management strategies, gaining insights that resonate with your goals. This tailored exploration offers a unique opportunity to engage deeply with the future of horse care, making complex and fresh topics accessible and relevant just for you.

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Best for hoof health essentials
Hoof Care 101 offers a fresh perspective on equine health by focusing on the often overlooked but vital subject of hoof maintenance. This book covers the latest practices and technologies in hoof care, guiding you through anatomy, common ailments, and preventative strategies. Designed for horse owners eager to take an active role, it bridges knowledge gaps between owner, farrier, and veterinarian, helping ensure your horse's hooves remain healthy and strong throughout its life. If you want to understand the direct impact of hoof health on your horse’s performance and comfort, this guide is an accessible yet detailed resource.
Hoof Care 101: Hoof Health for Horse Owners book cover

by Erik Servia, Kristina Smith·You?

2024·178 pages·Horse Owner, Horse, Horse Care, Animal Health, Equine Anatomy

What started as a practical need to empower horse owners with foundational knowledge became a detailed guide to hoof health in this book by Erik Servia and Kristina Smith. Drawing from hands-on hoof care experience, it teaches you to identify and address common hoof ailments like laminitis and thrush, while also covering anatomy, trimming, shoeing, and nutrition. For anyone invested in horse care, it offers clear guidance to collaborate effectively with farriers and veterinarians. If you want to deepen your understanding of how hoof health impacts overall equine well-being, this book lays out the essentials without overcomplication.

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Best for curious horse enthusiasts
A Book For Horse Lovers offers a fresh perspective on equine knowledge, focusing on intriguing and often overlooked facts about horses. It covers a broad range of topics from anatomy to the surprising laws affecting horses, all presented in an accessible style that invites both amusement and learning. This book benefits anyone who wants to deepen their connection with horses, whether for care, conversation, or curiosity. With its entertaining trivia and practical insights into horse communication, it fills a niche for horse lovers looking to expand their understanding beyond the usual guides.
2024·32 pages·Horse, Anatomy, Equine Behavior, Horse Care, Horse History

When Rachael Christensen decided to compile lesser-known horse facts, she aimed to engage both casual enthusiasts and seasoned owners alike. You’ll uncover everything from the quirks of equine anatomy to surprising historical tidbits like the costliest horse ever sold. The book offers sharp insights into horse body language, helping you better understand your animal’s moods and needs. Whether you want to win at horse trivia or deepen your care knowledge, this 32-page read balances entertainment with practical learning. It’s best suited for anyone curious about horses beyond the basics, rather than those seeking detailed training guides.

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Best for mental enrichment techniques
No Bored Horses offers a fresh outlook on equine care by highlighting the overlooked need for mental enrichment in horses. Amanda Goble draws on her background as an animal enrichment specialist and zookeeper to bring zoo-tested strategies into the horse world, explaining how natural behaviors and stimulation can prevent common issues like vices and frustration. This book provides practical guidance on introducing over 30 toys, puzzles, and activities suitable for any horse owner’s budget or experience level. It's a vital resource for anyone seeking to improve their horse’s happiness and behavior through scientifically informed enrichment methods.
2024·232 pages·Horse, Animal Care, Behavioral Science, Enrichment, Equine Health

Amanda Goble, blending her expertise as a zookeeper and animal enrichment specialist with a lifelong passion for horses, addresses a critical gap in equine care: mental stimulation. This book unpacks why conventional care—though thorough in physical health—often overlooks the natural behaviors horses need to stay mentally and emotionally well. You learn how to integrate enrichment strategies that go beyond toys, focusing on meaningful activities that reduce vices and improve behavior, with detailed instructions for over 30 enrichment options. Whether your horse struggles with stall boredom or behavioral challenges, this book offers insights that can transform your approach and deepen your connection with your equine companion.

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Conclusion

These eight books collectively spotlight three key themes shaping Horse care and training in 2025: emotional resilience and leadership in challenging times, innovative training rooted in neuroscience and body awareness, and the importance of mental and physical enrichment for equine well-being. Whether you're drawn to Ami Cullen's survival story or Elaine Heney's practical polework exercises, each title offers unique tools to deepen your connection with horses.

If you want to stay ahead of trends or the latest research, start with "Running Free" for leadership insights and "Wired 4 Connection" for fresh training methods. For hands-on horse care, combine Heather Smith Thomas’s practical guide with "Hoof Care 101" for foundational health knowledge. Alternatively, you can create a personalized Horse book to apply the newest strategies and latest research tailored to your specific situation.

These books offer the most current 2025 insights and can help you stay ahead of the curve in understanding and caring for horses, ensuring your equestrian experience continues to grow richer and more rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "Care and Management of Horses" by Heather Smith Thomas for a solid foundation in horse care. It balances practical advice with horse well-being, making it approachable whether you're new or experienced.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Horse?

Not at all. Titles like "A Book For Horse Lovers" offer accessible insights perfect for beginners, while others provide deeper expertise you can grow into as your knowledge expands.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with general care books like Heather Smith Thomas’s guide, then explore specialized topics such as training with "Wired 4 Connection" or enrichment with "No Bored Horses" for a well-rounded approach.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can pick based on your needs. For practical care, choose "Hoof Care 101." For emotional connection, "Horses I Have Known and Their People" is ideal. Each book offers distinct value.

Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?

"Wired 4 Connection" dives into theory with the Polyvagal principles, while "151 Polework Exercises for Horses" emphasizes hands-on training. Choose based on whether you prefer concepts or exercises.

How can personalized Horse books complement these expert picks?

Personalized books tailor expert insights like those in these titles to your background and goals, keeping you updated with 2025 trends in a way that fits your unique equestrian journey. Try creating your own for a perfect match.

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