Physical Cues:
* Head-tossing: Raising the head and tossing it back and forth can be a sign of dominance, particularly when directed at another horse.
* Pinning ears: Flattening the ears against the head and turning them forward is a threatening gesture indicating aggression.
* Snorting: A loud snort can be used to intimidate or challenge other horses.
* Biting: A direct bite, while not always dominant behavior, can be a way to enforce dominance in certain situations.
* Kicking: A powerful kick can be used to assert dominance, especially during fights.
* Standing Over: A dominant horse may stand over a subordinate horse, blocking its access to resources like food or water.
* Body Language: Dominant horses often carry themselves with a more upright posture and may exhibit a more relaxed and confident demeanor.
Social Cues:
* Grooming: Dominant horses often groom subordinate horses more often, signaling their superior position.
* Food Access: Dominant horses will often be the first to eat and may prevent others from accessing food.
* Social Interactions: Dominant horses may initiate or control social interactions, deciding when and how others interact.
* Leading the Herd: The dominant horse usually leads the herd when traveling, choosing the direction and pace.
Other Factors:
* Age: Older horses are usually more dominant than younger horses.
* Size: Larger horses tend to be more dominant, but it's not always the case.
* Experience: Horses with more experience and confidence may assert dominance more easily.
It's important to remember that dominance hierarchy in horses is fluid and can change over time depending on various factors. The relationships between horses are complex and can be influenced by individual personalities, past experiences, and the overall dynamics of the herd.