Building a bond with your horse is essential for creating trust and a positive relationship.
Horses are incredibly intuitive and communicate their feelings through body language and behavior. While they can’t speak in words, horses can show affection and form strong attachments to humans. Here are some signs that can help you determine if your horse likes you:
1. Relaxed Body Language
A horse that feels comfortable with you will exhibit relaxed body language. Look for signs such as:
- Soft Eyes: A horse with relaxed eyes (not wide or glaring) shows trust and calmness. Soft eyes indicate comfort and that they feel safe around you.
- Relaxed Ears: When a horse is content, its ears will be neutral or slightly forward, not pinned back. Relaxed ears show that your horse is comfortable and not feeling threatened.
- Relaxed Body Posture: A horse that likes you will have a relaxed stance. This includes a loose, swinging tail, and their muscles won’t be tense or rigid.
2. Following You
If your horse follows you around willingly, it’s a clear sign of affection. Horses are herd animals and naturally seek the company of those they trust. If your horse moves towards you when you enter their space or follows you in the paddock, they are likely showing affection and enjoying your company.
- Tip: If your horse approaches you when you’re standing still, it’s a good sign they are comfortable with you and want to engage.
3. Nuzzling or Grooming
Horses often nuzzle or lick each other as a form of bonding. If your horse is gently nuzzling or licking you, it’s a positive sign that they are showing affection and view you as part of their “herd.”
- Tip: While grooming or nuzzling, your horse may also nibble at your clothing, hair, or hands. This is a sign of closeness and affection.
4. Positive Behavior During Handling
A horse that likes you will show calm, cooperative behavior during handling. This includes standing still while being groomed, allowing you to halter them easily, and not resisting when you ask them to move or change position.
- Tip: If your horse is patient and calm when you’re handling them, this is a sign that they trust you and enjoy spending time with you.
5. Whinnying or Nickering When You Approach
If your horse greets you with a soft whinny or nicker when you approach, it can indicate they are excited to see you. This is a vocalization typically used by horses to communicate with members of their herd, so hearing it from your horse is a positive sign that they recognize you and are happy to have you around.
- Tip: Pay attention to the tone and frequency of their whinnies. If they are vocal when they see you, it’s often a sign of affection.
6. Resting or Sleeping Near You
Horses are prey animals and are generally very cautious about their surroundings. If your horse feels safe enough to rest or even sleep near you, it is a big sign of trust and affection. A horse that likes you may lie down or take a nap while you are close by.
- Tip: Horses generally prefer to sleep in a position where they can jump up quickly if needed. If your horse lies down or takes a nap near you, it shows they trust you fully.
7. Maneuvering Towards You
Horses may actively move their body towards you for attention, especially if you’re standing still or in close proximity. If your horse leans into you, rubs against your body, or places their head or neck close to you, they are seeking contact and affection.
- Tip: Horses may also place their head on your shoulder or chest, which can be a comforting sign, showing they enjoy your presence and feel at ease.
8. Gentle Behavior During Training
If your horse enjoys training sessions with you, it’s a good indication of a positive bond. A horse that likes you will be attentive, willing to listen to your cues, and respond to gentle corrections. They will also show curiosity and interest during the training process, eager to please.
- Tip: If your horse is motivated and engaged during training, they are likely enjoying the time spent with you and want to work together.
9. Relaxed Breathing
A horse that feels comfortable with you will have a steady, relaxed breathing pattern. If your horse’s breathing is calm and even, it suggests they are at ease in your presence. If they’re anxious or stressed, their breathing may be faster or erratic.
- Tip: Take note of your horse’s breathing when you’re around them. Relaxed, steady breaths are a good sign of comfort and trust.
10. Yawning
Yawning in horses can be a sign of relaxation and contentment. While horses yawn to release tension or relieve stress, if your horse yawns in your presence without signs of anxiety, it’s a positive sign that they feel comfortable and safe around you.