Equine Warning Signs

Unpleasant behaviors and vices affect the dependability and usefulness of a horse. In their paper "Identifying Abnormal Equine Behavior and Vices," L. A. Lawrence, N. L. Gates and D. G. Bowers of the Washington State University Extension Program state, "Some vices lead to physiological problems, while others may be dangerous to the horse and handler, destructive to property, or just a nuisance." They recommend that horse owners learn to identify problem behaviors and treat bad manners with the help of an experienced horseman.

  1. Aggressive Behavior

    • Dominant, aggressive behavior in horses often reflects a lack of proper socialization with humans and the herd, particularly during early development. The horse shows its self-perceived leadership position by pinning its ears close to its head, charging, rearing or kicking at its human handler or other horses. The animal may also attempt to bite or strike out with its front feet. While dangerous to humans, these behaviors are normal in equine social structure.

    Fearful Behavior

    • A fearful horse frequently shows the same behavior as the aggressive horse. The modern horse evolved from prey animals and its primordial instinct requires it to either flee or turn aggressive when cornered. The non-aggressive horse will shy or spook when it is frightened, particularly if it is being ridden at the time. The horse may avoid being haltered or caught if it is turned out in pasture with its herd, and will prance and jig when it is haltered. A frightened horse frequently demonstrates an inability to stand still next to a human and will breathe heavily with extended nostrils. The wide eyes and quivering muscles of a fearful horse signal a potentially dangerous situation to its human handlers.

    Movement Behaviors

    • A horse shows its displeasure when it is being ridden by tossing its head, bucking, balking (resisting moving forward) or backing (backing up and not stopping when asked); all signs of disobedience that can result in a rider being thrown. A "barn sour" horse refuses to leave the barn, often cantering or rushing back to its herd when pulled away from them. A horse that takes control of the bit and runs away places itself and its rider in a particularly vulnerable position.

    Procedure Aversion

    • Animals that manifest aversion to being treated by the veterinarian or farrier will kick, pull up their heads, pin their ears and shy away. They will circle in their stalls, showing their haunches to their handlers and prove difficult to halter. The circling behavior may precede a kick and needs correction before the horse can be wormed, shod or receive veterinary care.