The development of equestrianism from the baroque period to the present day and its consequences for the welfare of horses

TLDR

Many saddle horses are slaughtered young, and bad riding is an underestimated source of poor welfare, highlighting the need for widespread promotion of academic riding across all schooling levels. The authors aim to illustrate differences between 18th‑century equestrian principles and modern dressage. They compare 18th‑century principles with modern dressage and propose suggestions to improve horse welfare.

Abstract

Summary Many saddle horses are slaughtered at a young age which could be indicative of a welfare problem. Bad riding is probably an underestimated source of poor welfare. Widespread knowledge of ‘academic’ riding should be encouraged and should be beneficial to all horses, at all schooling levels, for all purposes. In particular, 18th century principles tend to be forgotten and in this article the authors illustrate some differences to modern dressage. Various suggestions are made in order to improve welfare.