Many people instinctively use baby-talk when talking to their pets, often characterized by a high-pitched voice and exaggerated intonations. The same is true for many riders with their horses. But are horses sensitive to this type of speech?
In recent years scientists have pondered and investigated domestic horses’ physical and mental welfare. New research highlighting the benefits of accommodating horses’ genetically ingrained needs is booming. Some equestrians are leaving behind traditional single-horse stabling in favour of more natural options such as group housing and track paddocks.
Researchers in Denmark devised two experiments to investigate what it means to young horses to be exposed to a frightening situation when one of them is already familiar with the scenario.
A study commissioned by the FEI in 2017 found that having a growth mindset is one of 14 essential ingredients that make up horsemanship competence.
Italian researchers found that horses enter a positive emotional state when they see and interact with a familiar human who’s developed a good relationship with them.
Subtle behavioural signals from horses can provide handlers with important insights into how horses prefer humans to interact with them, according to the authors of a just-published paper.
Horses are considerably more sensitive to rein signals delivered through a bit than a conventional fabric halter, researchers have found, but there was also clear evidence of their dislike for the mouthpiece.
Learn how to bond with your horse and gain trust with exercises from Linda Tellington-Jones.
The footing beneath your horse’s feet affects his overall soundness. Discover what scientists are learning about footing and its connection to lameness and other health issues.
Researchers in Colorado have explored one of the most frustrating and risky aspects of spooking for horse owners – the habit of some mounts to baulk at an object that should be familiar to them.