Horses live in their own special world, which overlaps considerably with the human world. They have their own form of communication that is perfectly tuned to other horses, but which is sometimes difficult for some humans to interpret. Horses have a language that humans can learn, but it takes effort and patience.
Horses communicate primarily through body language. They have postures, small gestures, and full body motions that express a range of thoughts and emotions. The horse can use almost any part of his or her body to make a statement, and it is important that humans understand the intelligence that forms the basis of this ability.
Watch your horse's ears. The ears tell you a lot about what a horse is thinking. If your horse has both ears pricked up and facing forward, it indicates he is excited and attentive. If his ears are twitching from front to back, it may indicate he is nervous but not very unhappy. Ears laid back indicate an angry horse. It is very important to watch your horse's ears as you work with him.
A horse's tail is extremely useful as a flyswatter. However, it can also tell you a lot about your horse's frame of mind. If your horse has a relaxed tail, he is probably pretty content. He may also be bored or confused. If he is holding his tail upright, he may be suspicious or curious. Look at the context for clues as to the meaning. Know your horse well so that you can read his unique body language in every situation.
How a horse moves its legs can communicate a range of emotional states, all the way from skittishness to a dangerous degree of anger. The rearing horse immediately comes to mind as an obvious example of the extreme. This defensive posturing also serves to tell those around the horse of intense internal agitation involving fear and/or anger. Only a fool would not pay a large and powerful animal the respect of backing off until it feels safe enough to calm down.
Watch your horse's neck and head for clues about his happiness and alertness. Even the body can be used to express feeling. Watch for twitching skin, different breathing patterns, and whether your horse is standing at attention or turned around to pay attention to something to one side (or within). Your horse's head, neck and body can give you clues as to contentment, anger, jealousy and even illness.
Many people say that dogs are man's best friend, but there are surely those who will say a horse is man's best friend. This is because certain people have 'the touch? and are able to talk with horses by watching their subtle signs of communication and paying attention to the environment for clues as to meaning.
Every person is different and so is every horse. An intelligent horse has a strong desire to cooperate and to bond with an intelligent handler. Over the centuries, horses and people have developed a symbiotic relationship that can be extremely rewarding. The responsibility of making sure it is so falls squarely on the human. Take the time and have the patience to understand your horse, and you are sure to have a rewarding relationship.
More Information:
Want to read more about
horses and how to thrive with them? Do yourself a solid and visit our website and learn about horse food, horse care, horse stables, and the many
horse breeds
Categories
