Lyons on Horses: John Lyons' Proven Conditioned-Response Training Program

Excellent instructor! Takes things in small steps so that the horse is never frightened. Rewards are patting and verbal praise, not treats which cause the horse to constantly beg and bother you. Very similar to the way I trained my best horse. I could keep my reins as light as a butterfly and have him calmly make figure eights. He could walk with his rear legs while trotting in the front. Kept the front very light, perfect for pot holes and rough roads when riding in the dark. We rode about two thousand miles a year, we preferred traveling around rather than show riding. My horse loved it, summer and winter (Nova Scotia).

This is a good primer on horse training. Tons of great training information that is good for all stages of horse training. Some of the information about horse behavior (especially dominance) is outdated, BUT John's techniques and anectodal education is still pretty solid. If you were thinking about going the Parelli way, you'll be better off sticking to John Lyons.

I got this book because I had been observing a trainer who was working with horses where I board my horse. He is a certified John Lyons trainer. I was fascinated by how the horses were listening and learning. He recommended the book to me. I don't have an issue with my horse, but was curious. So I've been reading it and using some of the techniques so I'm clearer in my communication with her. And what I found was that my sweet mare listens more closely and is more focused on what I want her to do. The changes are subtle. But it's interesting how well this training as resonated with her. I've also used Monty Roberts and Linda Tellington methods. They each have a place for training and relationship building. But I am especially impressed by John Lyon's methods through this book.

This book is very well written and easy to understand. While Mr. Lyons is undeniably a western rider, his techniques are just as applicable to my dressage horses. Over the past few weeks I have seen wonderful improvement in the responsiveness and demeanor of all of the horses in my training program by instituting the mindset that Mr. Lyons outlines in this book.

Book came as described at a great price and came in a short amount of time! Was a great buy!

Arrived as advertised.

enjoyed reading

John Lyons is great for starting horses or working with older ones. This book is an older edition, but the philosophy is the same, soft and gentle, understand things from the horse's point of view, don't fight, you will never win. A better horse is willing and eager to be your partner.

This book was easy to read and seemed to present a very logical, sensible approach to the subject. It has certainly given me some new ideas for training my horse.

I bought this book because it is supposed to be a must for training horses but I find it quite rambling, very opinionated and quite condescending.

This book is a horse training bible. John's insight is amazing and his training methods work consistently on everything from showjumpers to polo ponies.

Great book! Was recommended to me by one other top nfr riders and I was not disappointed.

dog chewed it up after i left it on the table for five weeks. i love lyons but it's not the best quality out there at the moment i found others i'd rather spend my money on