How to Keep Your Dog Safe Around Horses and at the Stables

Many equestrian enthusiasts are also devoted dog owners. If you enjoy spending time with your horse, you may want to bring your dog along to the stables. But considering that horses are prey animals and dogs often have predator instincts, it’s crucial to understand how to keep both safe and comfortable in this unique setting.

Your dog’s breed, temperament, and behaviour are significant factors, as is your horse’s prior experience with dogs. If your dog is excitable or fearful, it could trigger a dangerous reaction from your horse. Conversely, horses may panic or defend themselves if threatened. Always seek permission from the livery yard proprietor before bringing your dog, as stables often have strict rules to protect all animals.

Introducing Your Dog to Horses

Start by considering your dog's natural instincts. Hunting breeds like the Beagle tend to chase, while herding breeds such as the Border Collie may try to herd. Both behaviours could unsettle your horse.

To create a positive relationship:

1. Begin at a distance: Keep your dog on a lead and watch for calm behaviour as the horse and dog see each other from afar.
2. Gradually reduce distance: Over several brief sessions, bring your dog closer to allow safe, comfortable observation.
3. Observe body language: Look for signs of stress like raised hackles or attempts to flee, and separate animals if needed.

Puppies

With puppies, early exposure is ideal. Carry your pup close to friendly horses and encourage gentle sniffing. Reward calmness with treats to nurture respect for horses and prevent future chasing instincts.

Older Dogs

With adult dogs, ensure they have strong obedience skills such as reliable recall, "leave it," and walking calmly on a lead. Use these commands when gradually introducing them to horses from a safe distance, rewarding composure throughout.

Ensuring Dog Safety at Stables

Even after your dog is calm around horses, the stable environment holds hazards to be mindful of:

Equine Worming Paste

Horse wormers often contain ivermectin, which is toxic to dogs. Breeds like Border Collies and German Shepherds are especially sensitive. Dog owners must prevent their pets from accessing wormer tubes or horse droppings recently treated with ivermectin, as ingestion can cause serious symptoms such as vomiting, seizures, and blindness, requiring urgent veterinary care.

Hoof Trimmings

Dogs are attracted to hoof trimmings, which can be safe when fresh. However, trimmings contaminated with chemicals from foot treatments or old mouldy fragments are hazardous. Dogs eating these might suffer stomach pain, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing, so always clean up trimmings promptly after farrier visits.

Eating Horse Feed

Small amounts of horse feed usually aren't harmful, but large quantities or medicated feed (such as containing phenylbutazone) can cause poisoning. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, and tremors. Avoid allowing dogs near horse feed and seek immediate veterinary advice if you suspect ingestion.

Additional Tips for Responsible Ownership

• Always keep your dog on a lead near horses to prevent startling or chasing.
• Train your dog thoroughly in obedience commands to ensure control at all times.
• Introduce dogs gradually to stable environments and horse routines to build positive association.
• Respect stable rules and others’ animals by seeking permission before bringing your dog.
• Regularly check the stable environment for hazards like wormers, feed, or hoof trimmings.

Conclusion

Spending time with your horses and dogs can be a rewarding experience when safety is prioritised. By gradually introducing your dog to horses with patience and control, and monitoring stable hazards diligently, you ensure a happy and secure environment for all your beloved animals. With responsible care, dogs and horses can enjoy peaceful co-existence at the stables and beyond.