1. Equine Behavior

2. Behavior Communication consists of sounds and body language
Herds have a dominance hierarchy (pecking order)

3. Behavior
Foals learn survival/behavior from their mothers

4. Behavior Horses categorize experience in one of two categories:
Frightening
Not frightening

5. Behavior Have well developed senses of smell, hearing, and touch
Fairly good eyesight

6. Behavior Horses kept in group situations will form a hierarchy
No two horses are ever equal
Allegiances and alliances will be formed with the group
There may be several sub-groups in a large herd
The pecking order may change
Injury
New horse added
Horse taken from the group

7. Behavior In captivity horses need companionship
Horses need plenty of exercise, mental enrichment, and companionship in order to thrive

8. Angry – Back off!

9. Scared

10. Curious

11. Relaxed/Happy

12. Annoyed

13. The Whinny/Neigh The loudest sound a horse makes
Used to call out to other horses when separated or alone
“Who is out there?” or “Where are you”
If another horse hears, will answer with a nicker

14. The Nicker A vibrating sound with the mouth closed
A positive noise, encouraging decreased distance
“Hello”
“I’m here”
“I’m interested” (stallion to mare or vice versa)
“Come closer”

15. The Squeal
A sharp, short, loud noise usually made with the mouth closed.
A negative noise, usually a sound of protest
“Don’t push me!”
“I don’t want to!”
“Back off!”

16. The Snort
The horse usually holds his head high while exhaling through the nose with his mouth shut
A short noise, usually a questioning sound – the horse is deciding whether or not to be afraid
“Is that dangerous?”
“What is that? I’m unsure”

17. The Blow The horse exhales through his nose with his mouth shut.
A long noise, a positive sound – the horse is
“I’m your friend”
“That’s nothing, it’s okay”
“I like that”
“I’m content”