The Crossroads Evidence-Based Equine Development Method

Where Art Meets Science in Horsemanship

At Crossroads Ranch, we believe equine development is both an art and a science. That philosophy inspired the creation of the Crossroads Evidence-Based Equine Development Method — a structured, six-stage system designed to produce confident, reliable, and emotionally balanced equine partners.

Every horse in our program begins at Stage 1: Knowledge and progresses through all six stages before earning the title of a Crossroads Certified Graduate — a true solid equine citizen.

Stage 1: Knowledge

Understanding before action.
Each horse’s journey begins with data-driven discovery. We collect a hair sample for EtalonDx ProPanel + Ancestry DNA testing ($329/horse), providing insights into color genetics, temperament markers, endurance, congenital traits, and ancestry.

Alongside this, every horse receives:

• A full veterinary examination

• Farrier evaluation and hoof care

• A trainer-led Intake: Crossroads Equine Scoring System Report

These foundational steps establish a complete biological and behavioral baseline — the starting point for everything that follows.

Stage 2: Comprehension

From information to interpretation.
In this stage, our team studies what the horse has revealed — mentally, physically, and emotionally — and develops a customized advancement plan. This plan outlines the most effective approach for that horse’s growth, ensuring their training aligns with both science and empathy.

Stage 3: Application

Turning insight into progress.
With the plan in place, we begin active work. We integrate DNA findings, address any pending veterinary or farrier items, and start the horse’s hands-on training process. This is where observation becomes motion — and training goals begin to take shape.

Stage 4: Analysis

Where art and science merge.
During this stage, we perform a comprehensive Hippology Study — our in-depth assessment of the horse’s history, environment, learned behaviors, and instinctual responses.

We may consult external experts to confirm best practices for horses with specific genetic, physical, or psychological profiles. The result is a complete Hippology Report, documenting:

• Origin and prior environment

• Behavioral and adaptive patterns

• Strengths and challenges

• Individual learning style

The outcome of Stage 4 is a fully informed development blueprint tailored to that horse’s unique nature.

Stage 5: Synthesis

Building the complete horse.
Here, we synchronize all four pillars of the Crossroads Method:
Psychology. Health. Conformation. Performance.

Our trainers apply daily, progressive conditioning — both physical and cognitive — while monitoring measurable benchmarks using the Crossroads Equine Scoring Method.
This ensures each horse becomes not only capable, but consistent — responsive, confident, and ready for real-world partnership.

Stage 6: Evaluation

Proof of readiness.
In the final stage, the horse undergoes a graduation veterinary examination and farrier review. We confirm all four categories — Psychology, Health, Conformation, and Performance — meet Crossroads certification standards.

Once validated, the horse becomes a Crossroads Certified Graduate, ready for placement with its forever partner.

Most horses complete the program within 3 to 12 months, depending on individual needs and progress rate.

The Result: A Horse You Can Trust

The Crossroads Method doesn’t just create trained horses — it creates trustworthy partners.
Our blend of scientific assessment, data-driven development, and compassionate training ensures every horse leaving Crossroads Ranch is not only well-prepared, but truly understood.