In their world of man-dominated things, horses display an extraordinary amount of sensitivity to their surroundings, including their masters.
Even though sensitized to obey man's desires for them, horses remain very social animals, desiring the company of their own kind. Over a long period of time, exclusion from that company may cause some horses to display behavioral problems.
In a domesticated setting, it is a gelding, or a mare who emerges as leader of the group.
A horse's muzzle is his most active investigative tool. If left to grow, extensive whiskers around his nose and lips help in this discovery of his world.
Horses never lose the instinct to play. As foals, their social skills are enhanced by play. As adults, they play to express their general well-being.
Suspending apples, carrots, and other foods, or "play" toys from a horse's stable roof can distract him from his confinement and allow him to play at will.
Horses will readily accept assistant from their human handlers. It is another way in which they learn to face obstacles in their world of man.
(Thoroughbred Hard Spun, the Polytrack champ, to Street Sense, the 2007 Kentucky Derby champ in their Sept. 29th rematch in the Kentucky Cup Classic Stakes at Turfway Park: "Third time's a charm, laddy. Gotchya!"
Street Sense, responding: "Even my winning nose couldn't stretch long enough today.")
A horse's biggest clue to the desire of his rider, or handler is that person's body language. Horses will give out their own body language signals, either in return, or to initiate their own description of the circumstances.
Sudden movements, or loud commotion are not the horse's best friend. With any new, or noisy activity, a horse will respond nervously. He must learn what is happening and be given time to willingly accept.
Learning about one's horse is just good horse sense, which he will return in kind with his own brand of good sense.
