Learned vs Natural Behaviour in Horses: Key Differences

Horses are magnificent creatures, powerful yet ever so subtle in their communication. Understanding the difference between their learned and natural behaviour is key to building a harmonious relationship with them and ensuring safety for both horse and human.

Recognising subtle signals in horses' body language is a vital skill that can help prevent incidents. For instance, a slight lift of a hind foot can serve as a warning to keep away, while teeth chomping might signal unease. Those new to horses may find these cues challenging to read initially, but learning to interpret them is important for a safe and rewarding experience.

What is Natural Behaviour in Horses?

Natural behaviour in horses is instinctive and hardwired through genetics, shaped over centuries for survival. These behaviours are consistent among horses and include innate responses such as the flight instinct to flee danger, herd social structure, and social communication methods within the herd. For example, when one horse bolts, others often follow, a survival tactic inherited from their wild ancestors.

Understanding a horse's natural behaviour helps us appreciate its needs as a prey animal and a social species, guiding responsible handling and management.

Understanding Learned Behaviour in Horses

Learned behaviour develops through experience and interaction with the environment, including humans and other horses. Horses adapt their actions based on repetition, training, and consequences. For example, a horse may learn to avoid a rider's command or to associate a specific cue with a task.

Often, learned behaviours develop because the horse recognises that certain behaviours help them avoid undesired activities. A common example is a horse cantering away to the far end of a paddock when seeing a head-collar, having learnt to avoid being caught or worked.

It's important to understand that learned behaviours can be both positive, such as responding to commands, and negative, such as developing bad habits. Trainers must be patient and consistent when shaping a horse's learned behaviours.

Horses are Creatures of Habit

Like many animals, horses prefer routine and consistency. Feeding times, turnout schedules, and human interaction routines all contribute to their sense of security. Horses learn best through repetition, which means unwanted behaviours can quickly become ingrained if not managed promptly.

For example, ponies ridden by children may develop behaviour such as dropping their heads to graze during a ride, knowing their smaller riders lack the strength to stop them effectively. Adults, by contrast, can correct this behaviour more easily through stronger aids and riding skills.

Recognising Warnings Before Aggression

Horses generally give clear warnings before displaying aggressive behaviour. Indicators include pinned-back ears, eye-rolling, tucking in hindquarters as if about to kick, or lifting a hind foot. Some horses may swing their hindquarters toward a person or another horse as a firm signal to keep away.

Reading these signs accurately and giving horses the respect and space they require can prevent injuries and build trust.

The Flight Response: Horses as Prey Animals

Horses are prey animals with a strong flight instinct. When frightened or threatened, their priority is often to run away from danger rather than confront it. They will bolt to a safe distance, stop to assess the situation, and flee again if needed. This instinct preserves life but can result in sudden, unexpected movements around people.

Notably, horses demonstrate their fear by making themselves appear larger—raising their heads, snorting loudly—contrasting with animals that might try to shrink away. This makes understanding their body language even more crucial when handling horses.

Conclusion

Spending time with horses requires attentiveness to their body language and behaviours, both natural and learned. Respecting their instincts and recognising their signals can lead to safer, more enjoyable interactions. Whether standing beside a horse or riding, learning to "read" a horse’s behaviour is essential for every equine enthusiast.

For those interested in acquiring or finding horses, always seek advice from reputable sources and promote responsible ownership that respects the welfare and natural needs of these remarkable animals.

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