Behavior

by SUSAN HARMON

UNDERSTANDING HORSE behavior is critical for any training program for your horse. Trainers and riders alike need to have the right balance and focus to establish a training foundation that will last a lifetime for the horse. Horses reflect their feelings through their body language. Some signs may be obvious, but others may not so watch closely so you can judge the right response and adjust appropriately.

Horses will move their tails, legs, ears, and eyes in very particular ways as part of their non-verbal communication. For example, horses that are frustrated may swish their tail, shake their heads, paw with their legs, or pin their ears back. Flared nostrils, stamping and high positioned tails may alert you that the horse is anxious or overly excited. In addition, a horse’s feeling of touch is extremely sensitive. They can feel rider movement and most especially a fly landing on any part of their body!

Horses will often communicate with their snorts, neighs, and whinnies and how they do so have different meanings. They are herd animals and use these mechanisms to communicate to other herd members. Prey animals rely on their vision, hearing, and smell to keep them safe.

Your horse will become more receptive to training and bond with you as the leader if you respect and understand them. Building a solid rapport and trust with your horse can grow and flourish much easier if you understand “horse” speak. Your response will make all the difference.