Horse Trainer

The Horse Trainer must be calm and patient above anything else that they do. They are required to work with both the needs of the horse and the owner. Long hours and willingness to work outdoors are also a requirement of the Horse Trainer. The Horse Trainer must be able to assess the needs of the horse and owner, and teach both of them in a discipline. Many Horse Trainers specialize in certain disciplines such as Dressage, Cutting, Reining, Western Pleasure, or even Harness Racing. The Horse Trainer must be able to manage the people that they work with. They must also be able to provide their own clientele.

The qualifications of a Horse Trainer should include a bachelor's degree in Equine Sciences with classes in form and function, general anatomy, and training and riding classes. Most Horse Trainers also serve internships or apprenticeships with other Horse Trainers, and these internships or apprenticeships can last from several months to several years under another Horse Trainer.

The average income of a Horse Trainer will vary based on the degree of knowledge that the Trainer has. Some trainers train from $25-$100 per hour, others charge by the month, while others charge based on the amount of earnings that the horse makes in the show ring. Therefore, the average income will always vary based on the trainer and their experience. Benefits are usually very limited; most do not receive benefits unless they are paid by the person who owns the horse.