03/05/2026
J'aime cette approche d'observation ou l'on investigue la santé, le mode de vie, le type de travail et la régularité de ce dernier avec son cavalier, la qualité des apprentissages et de la relation à l'humain, le matériel de sellerie avant de reprocher quoique ce soit à l'animal !
WHEN DID YOUR HORSE’S BEHAVIOUR PROBLEM START?
Behaviour problems rarely appear overnight. In most cases, the issue will have been developing quietly for some time and the early warning signs have been missed or ignored.
Behaviour problems in horses are not random. They are usually the result of pain, fear, inappropriate management, an unsuitable environment, harsh or confusing training, or a combination of these factors. Sometimes what is labelled as ‘misbehaviour' can also be normal behaviour that the handler has misinterpreted.
Early warning signs may be subtle behavioural changes rather than obvious or dramatic responses. These could include changes in behaviour like hesitating when being led, avoiding a particular place in the arena or field, turning the head away when tack is brought out, becoming tense in situations where they were previously relaxed, or withdrawn where they were previously engaged. Subtle shifts in facial expression, posture, or willingness are often the first signs that something is not right.
When these signals are overlooked, the traditional response is often to keep asking for what we want and apply more pressure. If the underlying issue remains unresolved, behaviour may then escalate into something more obvious and sometimes more dangerous. Alternatively, a new behaviour may appear as the horse shifts to a different coping strategy, masking the original problem.
Horses do not ‘misbehave’ to be difficult, every behaviour serves a function. When behaviour changes, it provides information about how the horse is coping with their current situation. Instead of escalating your demands, a more appropriate response is to pause and ask why. Are they uncomfortable? Are they confused? Has something changed in their management, workload, training, social group, or environment?
If you notice a change in your horse’s behaviour, start with a veterinary assessment. If they receive a physical all clear, involve a qualified behaviour professional. Check teeth and tack. Review feeding, turnout, social contact, training methods, and recent changes. Small adjustments can make a significant difference when made early.
