Dust jacket notes: "Doug Carpenter presents the training philosophies and techniques he uses to prepare his winning western pleasure horses, including seven AQHA World Champions and eight All American Quarter Horse Congress winners, in this essential handbook for horse and rider. Doug"s vast knowledge of western pleasure can improve your horsemanship skills by providing step-by-step advice on every aspect of this event including: Guidelines on selecting a prospect with suitable ability, conformation and temperament; How to prepare a young prospect before the first ride in order to minimize stress on the horse and maximize positive results once you are on his back; Exercises to teach your horse to guide easily and maintain the proper position with his head, neck and body; Detailed instructions on how to train the horse to perform at it"s full potential; Techniques for improving transitions, backing and the extended jog; Preparing for competition and showmanship techniques, including riding in pleasure class "traffic," minimizing recovery time and rating speed; A maintenance program for older horses as well as specific cures for common problems; How to choose the appropriate tack and equipment...."