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Days in Horse Country – Your Horse’s Personality
Horses are a lot like people, they all have their own
distinct personalities. One horse can be
shy and retiring, while another can be outgoing and bossy. Age and breed may not even be a factor,
although younger horses tend to be more fractious than their older
counterparts.
If you haven’t already figured out your horse’s personality, it’s high time you did. You need to have a sense of who your horse is so you can truly understand her behaviour. If you are having problems with your horse, they key to solving these issues no doubt lay in her personality.
A number of famous clinicians have published details on the different types of horse personalities out there and how they differ from one another. Linda Tellington-Jones’ book, “Getting in Touch: Understanding and Influence Your Horse’s Personality” shows how the shape of a horse’s head, ears, eyes. Chin, and nostrils can belie her personality. Clinician Pat Parelli breaks down the different equine dispositions in his DVD “Horsenalities”. Trainer Charles Wilhelm details different types of horses in his tome “Build Your Dream Horse”.
All of the different personality types described by these experts are on the mark. Study them, and you’ll discover your horse among these distinct descriptions.
Once you have a handle on your horse’s personality, it’s a good idea to evaluate your own disposition to see how the two of you compare. For instance, if you are a nervous rider and you have a horse that is timid, you may be mismatched. Does this mean you need to get rid of your horse? No, but it gives you insight into why the two of you are having problems. Your next step will be to find ways to boost your own confidence and that of your horse as well.
On the other hand, if you are a fearful rider and your horse is as brave as they get, rarely spooking at anything, and frequently being labeled as “bombproof”, you have a sense of why the two of you get along so well.
You can only learn more about your connection to your horse by discovering her innate personality. A deep understanding of your equine companion will enhance your relationship.
Michael