Why your horse wants you to be in charge

“Why is she so nervous? What does she see? There must be danger! Human, what should I do? She’s not telling me what to do, so I guess I have to decide. She’s clearly afraid of something, so I think we should turn the other direction and run as fast as we can! Maybe I should buck, too, in case something is following us? I’ll save us, human!” 

I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “animals can smell fear.” This is usually an axiom used to convince us to be brave and tough so an animal doesn’t attack or take advantage of us. But in the world of horses, it’s important to remember some key facts about them. 

1. They are prey animals. 

2. They are herd animals. 

What do those two facts have to do with our fear? 

In the wild, horses are protected from predators by using safety in numbers as well as their speed. Each herd has a lead horse. This horse is the one on high alert, and when danger comes, they tell the herd, “it’s time to move, now.” For a horse’s survival, it’s safer for them to assume danger and run than it is for them to wait and see. 

Ok, but seriously, what does this information have to do with fear and confidence? 

When you get on your horse, or even when you’re working with them on the ground, if you show anxiety and lack of confidence, the horse will delegate you to a lower position in your herd of two. They will assume that it’s their responsibility to be constantly alert, looking for danger, and ready to run or respond at any moment. If you are fearful or anxious while you are with them, they  will believe there is an external reason. Horses don’t understand our existential fears of falling, fears of losing control, or fears of being hurt. 

When you act confidently and assert yourself as the lead mare in your herd of two, the horse can relax. “Oh, okay, she’s got it. I don’t have to look everywhere all the time for danger. I just need to look to her. She’ll tell me if I need to run.” 

It’s not about dominating our horses or proving that we’re stronger or braver than they are. It’s about showing them that they don’t need to worry. They just need to listen to you and they will be safe. This allows the horse to relax, listen, and learn. 

At Well Equestrians, we are here to help you step into the role of leader with your horse so you can have the riding relationship you’ve always dreamed of. If you are looking for extra support, reach out to us through our website or at rachael@wellequestrians.com

Building a productive, safe, and fun relationship with your horse starts by establishing yourself as the confident leader of the herd.