Reading Horses

How is this horse communicating?

Ears upright Head up Neck tight Eyes wide Trying to look away- rope taut

This horse is likely: Somewhat frightened – erectness of body eyes, ears, neck and posture Defiant – not willing to give to the rope Attentive but not cooperative

How is this horse communicating?

Ears back – notice profile in shadow Nose rounded “Roman Nose” Neck stiff Looking “down its nose” at person Lips somewhat pointed

This horse is likely: Angry Bossy Threatening the holder

Similar posture as last photo- notice horse already close to holder and willing to step closer

How is this horse communicating?

Ears upright Defecating Head slightly toward person

This horse is likely: Frightened Anxious - defecation Starting to pay attention to the holder

How is this horse communicating?

Head down Leg up Tail down Ears attentive Rope slack

This horse is likely: More relaxed Cooperative Attentive The same disrespectful horse from the earlier photos after 1-2 hours training.

How is this horse communicating?

Ears back Head and neck extended out forward Tail switching Muzzle pointed and tight Pawing ground

This horse is likely: Informing another horse to get out of its territory.

How is this horse communicating?

Ears back Tail extended Neck and head extended Legs in “pounce” position

This horse is likely: Going to attack a horse in front of it if the other horse does not move away (the horse in danger is not the white horse)

How is this horse communicating?

Ears erect - forward Head and neck up Face angled slightly down Rope slack Muzzle not pointed nor tight Nostril wide open

This horse is likely: Trying to determine what the handler wants Willing to cooperate Not threatening handler Somewhat frightened