Dr Janet Jones
Horse Brain. Human Brain.
Bridging the Gap Between Horse and Human Minds
Have you ever had an Aha! moment while working with your horse—one of those instances where everything just clicks, and you finally understand why they respond the way they do? That’s exactly what I experienced when I first read Horse Brain, Human Brain by Dr. Janet Jones. Not only did this book confirm some of my own theories about horse behaviour, training, and wellbeing, but it also opened my eyes to fascinating insights I had never considered before. Dr. Jones masterfully bridges the gap between neuroscience and horsemanship, making complex brain science, practical and accessible for every horse owner. If you want to train with greater awareness, improve your communication, and truly meet your horse halfway, this book is an absolute game-changer!
As a brain scientist and accomplished horsewoman, Dr. Jones offers insights that transform the way we think about horsemanship. She sheds light on the profound yet often overlooked interplay between human and equine brains. Her research makes complex neuroscience concepts accessible and practical for horse owners, allowing us to train with greater awareness and effectiveness.
Dr. Jones earned her PhD from UCLA and spent 23 years teaching the neuroscience of perception, language, memory, and thought. She has also worked extensively as a horse trainer, schooling hundreds of green or difficult horses across multiple disciplines, including hunter, jumper, halter, western riding, and reining. Her approach incorporates dressage principles into all horse sports, always emphasizing clear communication between horse and rider.
Why This Book is a Game-Changer
I spend a RIDICULOUS amount of time in my car, and all of driving hours are spent listening to audiobooks. I have literally listened this book in its entirety at least half a dozen times, and often skip back to listen to particular chapters- Every time I revisit it, I uncover something new. If my physical copy of Horse Brain, Human Brain had been read as often as I have listened to the audiobook, it would be the most grubby, dog-eared book on my bookshelf!
Understanding how our horses’ brains work—and how they differ from our own—offers sooooo many benefits! Who doesn’t want to be informed about how we can ride and handle horses more safely, train more effectively, improve our performance, ensure our horses’ comfort, encourage mutual trust and build stronger horse/human relationships, right? RIGHT?!
Brain-based horsemanship is relevant to all riders, regardless of discipline. Whether you ride Western or English, train working draft breeds or Grand Prix jumpers, or simply enjoy spending time on the trails, understanding how equine and human brains work in tandem can enhance your relationship with your horse and improve training outcomes.
Dr. Jones advocates for a profound yet simple truth:
‘horsemanship of every kind depends on mutual interaction between human and equine brains.’
By understanding how both brains function—their strengths, weaknesses, and perspectives—we can communicate with horses on their terms instead of imposing our human-centered approaches. This mindset shift brings countless rewards.
Overview of Horse Brain, Human Brain
Dr. Jones divides her book into five key sections:
- Animals in a Human World – Understanding the unique relationship between horses and humans, and how their brains have evolved differently.
- Taking the World In – Exploring how horses perceive their environment through vision, hearing, smell, taste, and touch.
- Learning to Be a Human’s Horse – A deep dive into how horses learn, including reinforcement methods and training techniques.
- Attention, Emotion, and Forethought – Examining focus, emotions, and decision-making in horses and how these influence training and behavior.
- Horsemanship Beyond Knowledge – Applying these insights to develop true horsemanship that fosters trust, respect, and partnership.
Meeting Horses Halfway
When we take the time to meet horses halfway, as Dr. Jones suggests, the benefits ripple through every aspect of our interactions with them:
- Deeper Bonds: By aligning our communication with how horses naturally think and feel, we build stronger, more trusting relationships.
- Insightful Handling: Misbehavior that might once have frustrated us becomes an opportunity to understand and address the root cause.
- Reduced Mistakes: Awareness of common human errors in training helps us avoid them, saving valuable time and energy.
- Improved Performance: Whether in the arena or on the trail, horses respond better when we engage with their minds in a way they instinctively understand.
Exploring Horse and Human Minds
In Horse Brain, Human Brain, Dr. Jones explores mental abilities such as seeing, learning, fearing, trusting, and focusing—always from both human and horse perspectives. Her explanations are punctuated by real-life stories of horses and handlers navigating their unique challenges—some successful, others not. These stories not only illustrate key principles but also remind us that growth in horsemanship is a journey of trial, error, and continual learning.
Truly, this book is ABSOLUTLEY one that you should have on your bookshelf.
Horse Brain, Human Brain, offers more than just a scientific exploration of equine and human brains—it provides a roadmap to creating a deeper, more intuitive bond with your horse. The insights of Dr Jones empower us to approach training with patience, curiosity, compassion, and a clear understanding of how our horses experience the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned equestrian, this book serves as an invaluable resource for anyone who wants to communicate more effectively, build trust, and strengthen connection with their horse.
Where can you get it?
You can buy direct from Dr Jones website at https://janet-jones.com/categories/books or, if you spend a s*#tload of time in your car like I do, you can purchase at Audible.
Exciting News: Dr. Janet Jones is Coming to Australia!
I am thrilled to announce that Dr. Janet Jones will be visiting Australia in September-October 2025! During her visit, I will be hosting a 1-Day Masterclass in Dorrigo, NSW. This event is a unique opportunity to learn directly from Dr. Jones, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and deepen your understanding of the horse-human connection.
In addition to the masterclass, there will also be a full day of lessons available for those wanting some practical 1:1 time with Dr. Jones.
Details about the masterclass and lessons will be available on my website, wildhorsemanship.com.au, from February 2025. Mark your calendars—you won’t want to miss this incredible event!
