The Beginner’s Guide To Understanding Horses

As a new rider, there are so many new and exciting things to learn about horses! While it would be impossible to cover them all in one blog post, we’ve gone ahead and narrowed it down to 6 things we think you should know about horses prior to coming for your first lesson.

1. Horses are prey animals.

When we think of predator vs prey in the wild, predators are animals like lions or wolves, who hunt other animals for food. Prey animals, on the other hand, are the animals that are hunted. As a result of this biological development, prey animals rely more heavily on their instincts to stay safe. Sudden movements, loud noises, or approaching from behind them could trigger a flight reflex. 

2. Approach a horse from the front or side.

Horses have two natural blind spots, ie. spots they cannot see. Those spots are directly in front of them and directly behind them.

When we approach a horse from the front or side, they are able to see us and make a more accurate assessment.

Of course, this varies with each individual horse and your relationship with the horse, so be sure to always check with your instructor before walking behind a horse.

3. Horses communicate using body language.

Pinned ears, a swishing tail, and snorting sounds can tell you a lot. Similarly, so can forward ears, a droopy lip, and a relaxed leg.

Always be sure to pay attention to the horse’s body language.

If you ever aren’t sure about something that a horse is doing, ask your instructor!

4. No hoof, no horse!

Hooves are one of the most important parts of a horse. Always be sure to pick them out carefully before riding, and let your instructor or barn staff know right away if anything seems off (Heat, swelling, funny looking cracks, etc.). 

5. Learning to groom and care for a horse is just as important as learning how to ride.

Not only is grooming an essential skill, it is important bonding time to spend with your horse.

Taking care of a horse should always be a priority over riding, especially if you want to own or lease a horse someday.

Knowing how to see if a horse is off in any way is just as essential as learning how to rebed and pick a stall. When you have the opportunity to learn something about horse care from your instructor or barn staff- take it!

6. Lesson horses have limits.

   
   

School horses are the hardest-working horses out there. They spend their days teaching countless riders, helping riders to build confidence, and carrying everyone from the first-time rider to the re-rider needing a tune-up. Just like people, horses have days where they are sore or tired.

It is important that we meet them where they are, appreciate them for who they are, and understand that they aren’t going to be your next three-foot jumper.

If you feel like your abilities have outgrown a lesson horse, talk to your instructor! They will be happy to help you look towards leasing or buying a horse of your own.

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