Instructions
Place the new horse in a paddock that borders the pasture where they will eventually be introduced into the herd. This will give the horses a chance to meet one another prior to having full contact. The new horse will be able to observe the herd's pecking order from a safe place so that it knows what to expect when eventually turned out with the herd. Ensure that the fence between the horses is sturdy and will not damage any of the horse's legs should they start to paw at each other through the fence.
Leave the new horse separated in the paddock for a few days, or until the lead horses, usually the mares, have grown accustomed to the new horse and have stopped any squealing or biting over the fence. Remove one or two of the horses who are lower on the pecking order and place them in the paddock with the new horse. This will give the new horse a chance to get to establish its dominance or submission with horses that are lower on the pecking order prior to challenging the lead horses.
Let the horse into a pasture with entire herd. Having established the pecking order within the less dominant part of the herd will take some of the pressure off the new horse. Turn all of the animals out together in a large area with good fencing and solid footing. The new horse needs enough space to get away and avoid injury in case the lead horses decide to fight with it or beat it up. It is best if there are no areas where the new horse can be cornered by the herd.
How to Teach a Horse Who Is on the Pecking Order
Being herd animals, horses have a pecking order that is decided based on personality, age and gender. When introducing a new horse into an established herd, the handler can make the transition easier by introducing the horse to the other horses gradually. When the new horse is finally turned out with the herd it will know where it stands and be at less risk of being kicked and bitten by those higher than it on the pecking order.