Horse Body Language

In nature, horses are herd animals and are used to living as part of a group. They feel secure when they are around other horses and also when they are in familiar surroundings. A horse has very good hearing and it also has a good sense of smell. Their natural instincts make them very timid animals. As any horse insurance customer will tell you, they can tell when something is not quite right as they easily pick up on the feelings of both horses and humansaround them.If they smell or hear something unfamiliar their first instinct is to run.

Horses can show their feelings in a lot of different ways and by looking at your horse's ears you can get a good idea of what they are thinking. If your horse's ears are pricked alert and facing forward this usually means they are happy and interested in what is going on. If the ears are laid flat back against the neck it is a sign the horse is unhappy or annoyed. If your horse is flicking their ears this can mean they are being attentive and listening.

Horses are highly intelligent animals and have the ability to learn. They also have the ability to figure things out for themselves, such as opening a stable door. If you use correct and consistent training a horse is a fast learner. Usually reward training works the best and can be used to fix some behavioural problems. Horses can recognise short words and their meanings. The tone in which the command is given is also important.

Horses are very smart animals with their own distinct personalities; the more you are around your horse, the better you will be at picking up on his moods and how he is feeling. In the same way, your horse will soon be able to recognise aspects of your own body language. For instance, he will soon learn when you are happy, or agitated, and will pick up on your moods. Horses are wonderful animals to keep and are loyal and attentive to their owners. With a lot of patience and care you will be lifelong companions.

Are you an expert on horse body language? Does your horse do anything particular which alerts you to his needs? Perhaps you have a story to share about your own horse's body language? AFI Horse Community members would love to hear what you have to say. Please post your comments below if you would like to share your opinions with other readers.