A 2025 study published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science investigated how horse owners’ personal characteristics, beliefs, and goals influence their choice of training methods. Surveying 1,593 owners, researchers found that factors such as age, gender identity, equestrian discipline, professional role, and formal education in animal behavior significantly shaped training preferences. Notably, owners who believed horses experience emotions and pain similarly to humans tended to avoid aversive, pressure-based techniques, while those who viewed horse behavior as willful disobedience were more likely to use punishment-based methods. Additionally, riders who valued scientific evidence favored less aversive approaches.

The study also revealed that training goals impact method selection: competitive and professional riders often used negative reinforcement for quick, consistent results, whereas recreational owners leaned toward positive reinforcement and reward-based training. These findings highlight that training decisions are multifaceted, influenced by a mix of personal beliefs, cultural norms within disciplines, and practical demands. Understanding these influences can help tailor educational programs to promote evidence-based, welfare-friendly training practices, ultimately benefiting both horses and handlers.