Obviously, horses are unable to speak to let you know exactly what’s on their mind, but in their own way they are attempting to communicate with you all the time. If you try to understand what their body language is trying to tell you, in turn you learn to communicate better with your horse. When training or working with horses, this can be a valuable asset, as it can often let you know whether or not you should consider trying a different approach, thus making you a more skilled equestrian and trainer.
Head Position:
Whenever you’re working or training your horse, whether it be on the ground or from the saddle, a high held head is a sign the horse is tense or anxious, and when a horse lowers their head this clearly says they are relaxed and calm and has accepted your instructions and leadership. When a horse’s headset is level and slightly forward, especially when being ridden, is considered a neutral position, and typically indicates they are focused.
Thrashing the Tail:
When a horse swishes|thrashes their tail it is typically an indication that they are frustrated or annoyed. You need to be cautious, because this can be a warning sign that will sometimes be followed by a kick. Horses also often swish their tails to keep flies and other insects off their body. It is important to know the cause of tail swishing, so it’s vital that you pay attention and try to interpret the situation in which the horse is thrashing their tail, and if they are trying to relay a message to you.
The Ears:
The horse’s ears can relay a great deal of information. Each ear has the ability to move individually and cue in to something different. When a horse’s ears are both straight up and forward, most likely something has got their attention and are in a state of alert and listening. If the ears are tipped forward and the nostrils flare, most often means the horse is scared or real nervous about something. When the ears flop out laterally with the openings facing down, usually means the horse is tired or depressed. When a horse pins both of their ears back is a sign that they are frustrated or annoyed and a warning sign that they may become aggressive. If one or both ears are slightly back, this suggests the horse is listening to something behind him. If the horse is being ridden, they are most likely listening to the rider.
The Muzzle and Lips:
Licking the lips is customarily an indication that the horse is digesting ideas, acknowledges or understands what you are asking of them. You will often discover your horse licking their lips after they have been asked to do something and successfully accomplish the task. When a horse’s lips are tight and/or have a wrinkled muzzle, this most often means that they are anxious, tense, nervous or worried. A flapping lower lip means they are unfocused, sensitive or nervous about something.
By learning to Interpret Equine Body Language is important in enhancing your ability to communicate and understand horses. Over time you will develop an instinctive awareness of your horse and be able to properly react to certain situations.
If you found this article useful you can find more horse related articles and tips like this at the Hitching Post, a site for country dating and those with a passion for horses and/or the Country lifestyle.
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