It’s never too late to start riding a horse. If one is determined to develop the strength and stamina required to ride a horse, they can take up the practice at any age. The instructor will determine whether they’re physically and mentally capable of learning and set them up for beginner lessons.

In this article, you’ll learn more details on starting horseback riding at an older age, how long it takes to master the hobby, how hard it is to learn, and more.

Is It Ever Too Late to Start Horseback Riding?

No one is too old to start riding a horse. If you’re healthy and you can develop the skills, you’ll be good to go. You’ll find seniors learning to ride even when they’ve reached 70 years of age.

However, when you go to practice, your instructor will assess your fitness for the activity and determine whether you are healthy enough to start training. It may take some time, but if you’re determined to learn to ride a horse, you can successfully start to ride a horse at any age.

Here are the reasons why it’s never too late to start horse riding:

It’s About Consistency, Not Age

Especially if you’ve ridden a horse before, you understand that what matters in mastering horseback riding is regular practice, not when you start.

Many people start riding a horse at a young age then stop for a couple of decades. When they come back, it’s like they’re starting from scratch. Their strength, stamina, and flexibility diminished over the years.

Therefore, age doesn’t matter. Whether you’re 60 or more, if you want to do horseback riding for the rest of your life, all you have to do is start learning and keep learning.

No One Expects You to Learn at a Particular Rate

Everyone is different, physically and mentally. Some come with the strength required to ride a horse but end up taking longer to learn because they are fearful and spook the horse. Others develop the skills they’re taught faster than the best starting candidates. So, the learning timelines differ, and sometimes they don’t reflect how you started.

Therefore, if you are financially capable of starting lessons, do not worry about the rate at which you’ll master the sport. Do your best according to the instructions you’re given and see how it turns out.

Your Trainer Will Help You Stay Safe

Many senior equestrians worry that it’s no longer safe for them to try horseback riding. It’s understandable. Bones have thinned with age, and the youthful strength that could be useful for sustaining the shifting weight is long gone. But you shouldn’t worry.

As long as you train with a professional, they’ll help you prepare for each training session with the right gear plus exercises. You’ll have the right items to keep you balanced plus a helmet and other body cushioning equipment to ensure safety in case you fall. Most importantly, they’ll teach you how to stay safe on the saddle so you can master proper balance.

It Might Be the Exercise You Need

If you’re looking for fitness activities you’ll enjoy, horseback riding could be excellent for you. Riding a horse keeps you active and if you are capable of starting now, keeping the practice for the rest of your life becomes easier. You might be advised to do moderate exercise before getting on the saddle; it’s worth it to avoid missing this opportunity.

You Are Not Alone

Many people start riding a horse after 50. The existence of senior riders forums proves that. Chances are, you’ll find someone starting their practice in their senior years where you’re going to train. You can opt for group lessons if you are more motivated to train with other riders.

Check out what other senior riders say about their experience with learning to ride a horse after 60:

(Sources: Top Horseback Riding, Horse Forum, Equesure)

How Long Does It Take to Become Good at Horse Riding?

Generally, most consistent learners learn to ride a horse within three years. If you’re moderately fit and can take one lesson every week, you’ll be able to ride your horse without supervision within two years. This is a common estimate by most instructors. However, if you’re a natural or you can remember some training you received in the past, you can ride a horse well in months.

There are many factors to consider here but assuming you take a reliable instructor and keep handling one horse, you can learn quickly. Furthermore, your trainer will keep giving you feedback on how long you’re likely to take to reach your goals so you can plan around that.

(Source: Salisbury Farms, The Riding Instructor, Overdale Equestrian Centre)

Is Horse Riding Hard to Learn?

While the short answer is no, a more reasonable response is: it’s complicated. Unless you’re a rare natural, riding a horse is difficult for many beginners. However, if you continue to learn and practice consistently, the practice becomes simpler.

According to Topendsports, horseback riding ranks 54 out of 60 common sports worldwide in terms of the athleticism skills they demand. They ranked sports based on experts’ opinions and determined that riding a horse is less demanding than swimming, skiing, and even golf. (Source: Topendsports)

While the data is based on expert-level feedback, it shows prospective horse riders that this sport is easier than they’d imagine.

Best Horse Breeds for Older Riders

As a senior rider, your focus is probably not on the most highly-spirited horse but more on the horse’s trainability and patience. While you can get the personality you desire in any horse breed, some breeds are generally more fitting for older riders than others.

The best horse breeds for senior riders include:

Gaited Breeds

Gaited breeds are known for their fast yet steady steps that provide a smooth ride and easy ride. Instead of bouncing, you’ll feel as if you’re gliding, making this horse perfect for trails with harsh terrain. They also have a gentle demeanor, which is much needed when training.

Gaited breeds for older riders include:

• Icelandic horse: These have a sure footing and are small, making them easy to climb and handle.
• Missouri Fox Trotting Horse: This horse is usually friendly and is commonly used for handicapped horse riding.
• Rocky Mountain horse: Also used to ride people with disabilities, this horse is known for its laid-back attitude and sharp brain that understands timid riders.
• Tennessee Walking horse: This horse is known for its responsiveness to humans, making it perfect for training.

(Sources: Equisearch)

American Quarter Horse

This breed is highly popular, and for a good reason. Most quarter horses are even-tempered, adaptable, and reliable. They are well-rounded and can adapt to your needs as you become more comfortable with riding.

(Source: PetMD, Michigan State University)

Morgan

This horse tries their best to please their rider and is attentive and responsive. They are patient with beginner riders and are quick to learn how to handle them. They’re excellent horses for pleasure riding.

Conclusion

Age is just a number when it comes to learning horseriding. Whether you’ve never ridden a horse your entire life or have lost most of your experience over the years, you can start riding a horse even after 50. Others have done it, and you can do it, too!

But the question becomes why horses can be so skittish and if there’s anything you can do to keep them from getting jumpy and possibly injuring you in the process?

Horses are skittish as a natural defense mechanism. When horses see something that scares them, they have a quick reaction so that in the wild, they could quickly flee a predator or danger to them. Horses also jump when they’re in physical pain or discomfort (i.e. if their saddle is too tight).

Riding a horse can be a great experience, and many people enjoy doing so regularly without issues. As horses get older and more experienced, they often aren’t as skittish.

However, even the oldest and calmest horse can spook at some point, and it’ll probably happen. This article describes some of the common reasons for a skittish horse.

Why Are Horses so Skittish?

Simply put, horses are skittish because of the “fight or flight” response so ingrained in all living organisms. When a horse doesn’t understand something it sees, hears, or smells, it will often jump away from the stimulus, which allows the horse to make a quick escape.

Horses also jump if they’re in physical discomforts, like a horse whose saddle is uncomfortable or has back issues, or they may be jumpy simply because they have a lot of energy and need to burn it off.

These horses will seemingly spook at nothing.

Anything can cause a horse to spook (in which the horse jumps to the side or rapidly changes its current direction of travel with the intent to run away), but some of the most common reasons for spooking include:

• Your horse sees, hears, or smells something that scares it
• Your horse feels nervous before certain cues from its rider
• Your horse feels uncomfortable or is in pain
• Your horse has a lot of energy and just jumps

We’ll cover each of these reasons in more detail below, as well as what riders can potentially do to help keep their horse from spooking or what they can do to handle a skittish horse.

Why Your Previously Calm Horse Has Been Spooking

It can be very discouraging when a horse you’ve built a relationship with and has been relatively calm suddenly starts spooking at the drop of a hat. While there are several reasons a horse may start spooking, you should first rule out medical issues.

You may need to look at your own behavior and make sure you haven’t started acting nervous around your horse, for whatever reason.

You may also need to work with a professional to help your horse get used to the things it seems to be afraid of, whether that’s water, tractors, or any other seemingly random item.

Common Reasons Horses Spook

As mentioned above, there are four common reasons that horses spook or are skittish. These aren’t all-inclusive and there are of course other reasons your horse may spook, but these are four of the most common reasons for horses spooking and jumping.

External Stimuli

As a prey animal, your horse is pre-inclined to jump away from anything it finds dangerous. This may include a snake it comes across on the ground, or the smell of a bear or wolf it catches while you’re riding it through a trail in the forest. Of course, a sudden noise or a bird fluttering out of the bushes nearby may also spook your horse.

Rider Cues

Your horse also may learn to be skittish because of cues from you or common tasks you have the horse perform. For instance, your horse may become skittish when it approaches the same obstacle while you’re riding it, which is an indication that it has had bad experiences with that obstacle in the past.

Horses can read their rider’s body language pretty well, and a rider who tenses up because they come to a spot where their horse has spooked in the past will then give their horse a cue to spook again, and the cycle spirals from there.

Sometimes, leading your horse by the reins to show it that all is well is the best bet for breaking it off its jumpy behavior.

Physical Discomfort

Horses may also get jumpy and skittish because it’s in physical discomfort or pain. If the saddle its wearing is too hard or uncomfortable, or if it has a bad shoe, or if the horse has an injury to its back or spine, it may jump.

This isn’t surprising, and if your horse seems to jump at seemingly nothing, you may need to get it checked by a vet to make sure it’s in good health.

Burning Off Energy

Some horses and breeds are just naturally jumpier because they have more energy. Horses are big animals that can run for long periods, so you’d have to imagine they have a lot of pent up energy. Sometimes, they just need to burn off some of that energy by jumping around. You may confuse this with spooking, but it may or may not be tied to that.

This can make it more difficult to determine why your horse is being skittish, but making sure it gets plenty of exercise is a way to help it burn off stored energy and keep it from being too jumpy.

Warning Signs That Your Horse Is Going to Spook

Luckily, horses give off some very clear signals that they’re frightened and may jump soon. Just some of these signals include:

• Shakes or trembles
• Ears stand up and snap forward
• Rolling their eyes
• Picks head up
• Pacing in their stall

If your horse starts displaying these symptoms, you should be worried that it will spook if you ride it. Before you ride it, you should take some steps to calm your horse down so it doesn’t jump while you’re on its back.

How to Handle a Skittish Horse

If your horse is naturally skittish, don’t give up hope. There are still things you can do as a rider to help your horse calm down and stop being so jumpy and nervous. First, recognize that there’s a reason that your horse is spooking, and be patient and as calm as you can with your horse.

Impatience or losing your cool gives your horse a reason to react, and it can quickly lead to a negative feedback loop where you and your horse are just making each other more nervous and jumpy. That’s not good at all.

If your horse is jumpy, try getting out of the saddle and speaking calmly to your horse, and leading it by the reins for a while. If it sees you go first, it may be more likely to do whatever you need it to do.

You should also make sure your horse doesn’t have medical issues by getting it checked out by a good veterinarian. If your horse is suffering from back issues, or it’s having dental problems, it may jump from the pain its experiencing. Check things like its bit, its saddle, or its girth, but if you rule those items out, you should call in an expert.

Closing Thoughts

A horse and its rider can have an incredible relationship, and that companionship can be fruitful for years. However, if your horse is spooking, don’t give up. You can help your skittish horse overcome its fear and nervous jitters and get back in the saddle.

You might be wondering when to use fly masks and whether it is okay to leave them on your horses overnight.

Typically, horses do not require a fly mask at night and are generally safer without it. However, some horses with eye conditions or who are especially sensitive to flies might be advised by their veterinarian to wear a fly mask at night. While a fly mask does not impair vision during the daylight, it will slightly impair your horse’s vision in the dark, so head caution, so they do not get injured in the night due to their impaired vision.

If your horse does require a fly mask at night, be sure to regularly check on your horse’s health and make sure to remove the mask from time-to-time to prevent rubbing and irritation around the head. While fly masks prevent irritating bugs from bothering your horse, fly masks themselves can be an irritation. Read on for more details about proper fly masking!

When to Put a Fly Mask on a Horse

You will know when to put a fly mask on a horse because you will see flies swarming your horse at an unusually frequent rate. Most horse owners can anticipate this by putting preventative fly masks on their horses as the seasons change, and the weather grows hotter.

Flies tend to come out more in the summer months, so have a fly mask at the ready come June-July so that your horse does not spend too many days unprotected.

Fly masks are also good ideas in the summertime, not just to protect your horse from bothersome insects, but to provide facial protection from harsh UV rays.

Can Horses See Out of Fly Masks?

Fly masks are made of semi-transparent materials that allow horses to see and hear while wearing it. As previously stated, horses can see quite well in fly masks during the day.

However, their vision is somewhat impaired in fly masks at night, as the combination of mesh and darkness makes it more difficult to see.

Why Do Horses Wear Fly Masks?

Fly masks protect horses from insects and intense sunlight during the summer or periods of high heat. They are designed to provide comfort, and most horses do not mind wearing them when relief from flies and heat are given.

Fly masks can also be worn when a horse has an eye infection or some other kind of ailment that must be nurtured and protected from insects.

How Should a Fly Mask Fit?

You want your horse’s fly mask to fit properly and lie smoothly on their face. The lower ridge of the mask should fall just an inch below your horse’s cheekbones.

If it does not fit this way, then a gap may occur near the cheekbone, large enough to allow flies entry to your horse’s jaw, causing further agitation to your horse as your horse now can’t encourage the flies to escape the mask.

Ideally, you also want most of your horse’s face covered as well, if your horse does not mind. Some horses have little tolerance for full face masks. However, a full fly mask will provide the most amount of protection.

Your horse’s fly mask should not contact their eyes (even their eyelashes). This is crucial to prevent unnecessary damage to your horse’s corneas. Fly masks that touch horses’ eyes can cause corneal ulcers.

To ensure no contact between the fly mask and a horse’s eyes occur, a fly mask should have darts or rounded eye areas that cause the mask to rise upward to ensure full clearance and space around your horses’ eyes. Be diligent about checking every single angle as it sits on your horses face to ensure utmost safety and precaution.

While you do want your horse’s face mask to fit closely and comfortably, you don’t want it to be too tight on the face and jaw. A comfortable fit allows you to slip a finger in between the mask and your horses face with ease. If you can’t do this, the mask is too tight and will cause pain and sores on your horse’s mask.

A fly mask does not need to fit super snuggly because flies typically try to force their way into a mask. If there is a large gap, they will enter the mask, but they won’t try to nose through a mask that is snug but not tight.

The Best Fly Masks

The best type of fly masks are lightweight, made with a non-abrasive material with soft lining and, protect the horse from UV rays.

Equilibrium Field Relief Midi Fly Mask W/ UV Protection

This sleek, lightweight midi field fly mask by Equilibrium is ideal for the horse who cannot tolerate a full face mask. It is UV protective, keeping at bay at least 70% of the sun’s rays. This mask is also machine washable, making it easy to keep clean, so your horse is not exposed to unhealthy bacteria.

The material includes soft padding at the brow and around the noseband to prevent chaffing and comes with adjustable fastenings for the cheeks and ears.

Notice too how the mask protrudes outward above the eyes, ensuring ample clearance for the horses’ eyes and eyelashes. This is one of the more highly rated masks and runs around $50.

Cashel Crusader Long Nose Fly Mask W/ Ears

This full-face fly mask by Cashel Crusader is an excellent full coverage mask for the horse who does not make having their nose protected. It covers a horse’s face from ears to the nose and provides 70% protection from harmful UV rays.

It is a top-rated fly mask that also boasts recommendations from equine clinicians and veterinarians.

This fly mask is designed both with full protection and comfort in mind, made with soft coated nylon micro-mesh. Your horse will be shielded from flies, insects, and the sun, without impairing their vision or causing chafing. This Cashel Crusader mask runs around $30, which is inexpensive as far as adequate fly masks go!

This mask is offered in multiple colors ranging from grey, black to a light pink color! If visual aesthetics is a concern for you, this full-face fly mask is the way to go.

The Key Take Away

Unless instructed by your veterinarian, you do not need to put a fly mask on your horses overnight. While it will certainly keep the flies away, it can impair your horses’ vision at night, and keeping the fly mask on 24/7 can be a nuisance to your horse (as much as flies can be.)

It is paramount you invest in comfortable and effective fly masks so that your horse does not experience undue weight on their heads or uncomfortable chaffing.

Check your horse’s fly mask every day.  If they seem agitated by a full-face fly mask, invest in a mask that only covers the eyes and ears.

Check for worn or torn areas of the mask and inspect your horse’s face daily to ensure they are experiencing no discomfort from the fly mask itself and that the fly mask is still serving its purpose. If your horse is outside roaming most of the time, invest in a mask that is both UV protective and lightweight.

There are many costs involved in horse riding that make it expensive. The most significant expenses include purchasing ($1500-3000) and maintaining ($300-$500/month) the horse. The additional equipment necessary to ride the horse requires an initial investment of at least $800. 

Add in the expense of horse riding lessons into the equation, and it may seem like an unaffordable hobby. However, although horse riding may be expensive, it may be worth it. Read on to learn more about why horse riding is so costly and tips on decreasing the expense.

What’s the Average Cost of Owning a Horse?

The average annual cost of owning a horse is $3,876. The largest part of this expense covers feeding the horse, followed by providing any necessary healthcare. A horse also requires shelter and bedding. Other factors contributing to this expense include hoof care, shoeing, and grooming.

How Much Does It Cost to Feed a Horse?

The average horse will eat 15 to 20 pounds of hay per day. This adds up to a monthly food cost of $100-$250.

Note: The monthly cost for hay varies based on the time of year and your location. If you have the land available, allowing the horse to graze will lessen the cost of purchased hay.

In addition to the cost of food, a horse needs a supplemental source of sodium. The best source is salt blocks, which are $25 each and can be replaced as needed. Some horse owners provide other supplements as a matter of preference if it is within their monthly budget. On average, horse owners spend $20-$40 per month on supplements.

What Are the Healthcare Costs for a Horse?

Annual veterinarian bills are a considerable expense and average $485 for general care. General care includes checkups, dentistry, vaccinations, and deworming.

Naturally, this cost can skyrocket considerably with an emergency injury or illness. Because horses can be prone to injuries, especially with their legs, owners should keep a cash reserve to cover additional medical bills.  

Additional Horse Maintenance Costs

It’s essential to take care of a horse’s hooves. They require trimming and shoeing, and a farrier is a specialist that can provide these services.

The cost of trimming hooves is $25-$50 and should be done every six weeks; the cost of shoeing a horse can be $110-$135 and also needs to be done every six weeks.

You will also need to consider any fencing or shelters you may need for your horse. If you don’t have existing structures to contain your horse, adding them can be a considerable expense.

Horse Riding Expenses

Additional costs associated with owning a horse are the equipment necessary for riding. According to horses.extension.org, horse riding requires at least the below items:

• Saddle
• Bridle
• Saddle pad
• Lead Rope
• Halter

This equipment is known as tack. The average cost of the tack required for horse riding is $843, but can be much higher.

How Much Are Riding Lessons?

Riding lessons range between $30-$100 a session. This price range includes classes where the rider is present, and sessions for the horse and trainer are one-on-one. A good trainer can help determine if a horse needs individual instruction sessions.

What to wear to riding lessons is a matter of choice and budget. You can gear up with chaps, boots, and gloves if that is your preference. Special clothing isn’t required, though; any pair of long pants will do. Closed-toe shoes are highly recommended. 

One item you do need for lessons is a helmet, and it may be provided for you at the training facility. If not, they are easily found online, starting at $45 and up. While not ideal, a bicycle helmet could be a substitute if allowed by the training facility.

How to Save Money on Horse Riding Expenses

As you can see, the costs of owning and then riding a horse can certainly add up, but there are fortunately ways you can decrease the financial burden that comes with the hobby:

• Purchasing hay right after the growing season can save a lot. Hay becomes considerably more expensive heading into the winter months. An initial bulk purchase of enough hay to feed your horse for the year can be well worth it.

• Horse insurance is available to help manage the cost of healthcare emergencies. The annual premium is based on the value of the horse. Due to the substantial investment a horse requires, this may be an excellent option to consider.

• You can lower the expense of horse riding by purchasing used equipment rather than new.

• You can always take horse riding lessons with a horse provided by the training facility; this is an excellent option to consider since you can gain horse riding experience without the commitment of ownership.

• Since purchasing the horse is the most expensive investment, to begin with, buying a cheaper horse can help significantly reduce your initial horse riding costs, too.

What’s the Cheapest Horse to Buy?

Luckily, there are less expensive breeds of horses for those on a tight budget:

• Quarter horses
• Arabians
• Thoroughbreds
• Wild Mustangs

It may be surprising to see Thoroughbreds listed as an inexpensive horse option, but this is a result of the horse racing industry breeding them so often; there is an oversupply.

Horses that do not have racing potential can end up in a Thoroughbred rescue, which is where you could find low-priced horses and gain the benefit of providing a horse with a new lease on life.

However, it’s worth noting that purchasing an inexpensive horse breed may drive up your expenses in the long run. Quarter horses, for example, are known for having health problems. You may save money upfront but pay more in veterinary care in the long run.

The age of a horse you choose to purchase can also lower the price. An old or very young horse would cost less than a horse in its prime. However, the drawback of older horses would be that you may have increased healthcare costs.

On the other hand, a very young horse would require more of your time to train.

Horse Leases & Shares

If the expense of buying and caring for a horse is not in your budget, horse leases or share agreements are alternative options.

• A horse lease is an agreement where you pay an owner for the use of their horse. The owner takes care of all the maintenance expenses in this type of arrangement.
• With a horse share, you enter an agreement with another party and split the cost of purchasing and maintaining the horse.

If these options don’t appeal to you, a combination of the above tips is still a suitable way to save money when you own a horse.

Conclusion

In summary, horse riding is expensive, but there are ways to make it more affordable. As with any animal, it’s a good rule of thumb to consider the costs of caring for a horse properly before purchasing one. Creating a budget based on a horse’s needs upfront can help you determine if horse ownership is within your family’s budget.

Whether it is a dream of yours or your child’s, horse riding is a rewarding experience. Riding horses has both positive physical and mental health benefits. The benefits may be worth the expense and time planning to incorporate horse riding into your life.

The time it takes to learn how to ride a horse depends on what the new rider hopes to achieve. Learning the basics of horse riding can take from one month to three months of training sessions. Learning to master the intricacies of horse riding can take many years of constant practice.

If you’re looking to learn to ride a horse, we will provide some more details about the process’s time. We will also look at tips for beginners, as well as at the best breeds to start learning horse riding.

How Long It Takes to Learn Horse Riding

Mastering the discipline of horse riding can be highly time-consuming. But, learning the basics can take only a few months. The number, and frequency, of horse riding lessons, play a big factor in this process.

How Often Should You Take Horse Riding Lessons?

There is much to learn when it comes to horse riding. Plenty of lessons are recommended for beginners, but you should aim for at least one weekly session, ideally two if your funds and schedule allow it.

You should also squeeze in as much practice time as possible in between lessons. The practice time will help reduce the time it takes to learn, and it will create more of a bond with the horse as you continue to learn from each other.

Lessons usually take about three months if you’re looking to learn the basics, but depending on your trainer, it can take as many as 10 sessions, or more, spread across as many weeks.

Is It Easy To Learn Horse Riding?

Like any other discipline, learning to ride a horse takes a great deal of instruction, and it’s vital to do things correctly. It is very important to seek out an experienced trainer and to sign up for lessons. Knowledge and practice will be instrumental in helping you become used to this activity.

In time, you will know instinctively how to anticipate the horse’s movements and how to respond to them. It’s recommended to further your study of horse riding when you’re at home in between lessons.

Books, online tutorials, and forums are all valuable resources to expand your understanding of horse riding.

Some other factors will influence the difficulty level of this process:

Fitness level

Horse riding is a sport and a very thorough workout. You should be prepared to use most of your muscle groups in your time spent doing this activity.

Particularly affected will be your:

• Core
• Legs
• Arms 

It’s recommended that you build up strength in those areas before signing up for horse riding lessons.

Understanding horses

If you haven’t spent much time around horses before taking up horse riding lessons, chances are that you’re not going to be very knowledgeable about them.

While you’re taking lessons, make sure to observe your horse’s reactions and adapt to them. When you’re not taking lessons, spend as much time around horses as possible. Spending time getting to know them will help you in the long run.

Patience

Horse riding takes time to learn. The basics can be achieved in a few months, but mastering the activity can take a lifetime of study. Attempting too much before you’re ready won’t work out in your favor. Follow the advice of your trainer and take your time.

Beginner’s Guide to Horse Riding

Horse riding is a daunting prospect for beginners, but it’s certainly a worthwhile challenge. Here are some more insights and tips for your horse riding journey.

Best Age to Start

Horse riding can be learned at any age as long as you have a degree of strength and stamina. Various skills must be learned, and many muscles need to be trained, but beginners can become proficient at the sport from childhood to an older age.

While it’s true that children find it easier to absorb the lessons of horse riding, the most important aspect of learning is being willing to follow instructions. As long as you have the enthusiasm to learn and some physical conditioning, you can pursue this whenever you wish.

Children tend to start horse riding when they’re around 6 or 7, and plenty of adults start in their 30s and 40s. There are quite a few cases of people starting to learn riding skills in their 70s.

Tips for Beginners to Horse Riding

There is much to keep in mind when you embark on this horse riding journey. Here are some examples of what to look out for:

First impressions. Make sure to arrive at your lesson early enough so you can meet your horse before you get started. Also, if you get to the stables with time to spare, another advantage is that your trainer will have some moments to show you how to set up your horse before you head out.

Be aware. Be mindful of how and where you stand in front of him. Horses tend to expect human movement on their left side.

Proper attire. You may have seen official horse riding equipment in some instances, but there is no exact dress code for beginners. The only rules are to:

• Wear comfortable clothes that will prevent chafing in the saddle
• Wear closed-toe shoes with no heel
• Wear a safety helmet

Posture. This is a very important aspect of horse riding because your posture determines which of your muscles are putting in the most work and because your horse will respond to how you hold your body. Keeping your back straight will help you out a lot here.

Best Horse Breeds for Beginners

Horse riding beginners require a lot of patience from their horses, and some breeds are far more tolerant than others.

• Shetland pony. Shetland ponies are the traditional choice for children learning to ride due to their calm and even temperament, as well as their smaller size.

• American quarter horse. These are some of the most well-mannered horses and an excellent choice for beginners. They are both patient and quick to adapt.

• American paint horse. This is an excellent choice for beginners because the paint horse is one of the friendliest breeds you’ll ever encounter.

• Irish sport horse. These horses are as athletic as they are calm. Irish sport horses make wonderful companions for beginners.

• Morgan horse. The Morgan horse is known to be one of the kindest breeds. They also love to work with new riders and adapt quickly.

• Friesian horse. The ever-popular Friesians are highly intelligent horses. They’re also playful and patient.

• Welsh cob. These horses are very friendly and very resilient. They’re also smart and work very well with new riders.

• Icelandic horse. These horses are on the shorter side and perfect for shorter people. They’re also mild-tempered and very hardy.

Conclusion

Horse riding is a demanding physical activity. Learning the basics of horse riding takes around 1 to 3 months, but it can take years of constant practice to master the sport’s intricacies.

Horse riding lessons are extremely important to beginners because instruction is necessary to understand the many complexities at play. Factors like fitness level, research, and patience are also essential traits for a successful rider.

Some level of physical conditioning is necessary when pursuing horse riding, but you can learn at any age, from 6 to 70 and beyond. You should also keep in mind your posture, attire, and bond with your horse when you start your horse riding lessons.

As we discussed, particular horse breeds are more suitable for beginners, so make sure you pick the right one for you.

However, when it comes to the pens for the horses to be placed in, the round pen is one that is mostly recommended towards the younger horses and even other variants like mules and donkeys because of how small their statures are. Sometimes, depending on the rancher/farmer, the round pen can be used for the older horses who have since retired their days of traveling.

Keeping this idea in mind, it is important to understand how much of a space and comfort you need to provide to your horse. That way, they are safe and sound from possible dangers and can roam free whenever they can so that they stay active and, most importantly, happy and healthy for many years to come.

Understanding The Reasons Behind Using A Round Pen

As much as we think that simply a round pen is for design purposes, the reality is that round pens don’t sure the purpose of letting the horse roam free and be taken care of. 

Sure, that is what most pens do for them, but in the case of a round pen, they are built for training purposes. This is because of how small they are compared to other pen sizes, thus limiting the number of horses roaming around the pen. This also helps with the organization in the barns or ranches and, more importantly, helps to keep the horses settled as well. 

That being said, here are a few short reasons listed that are the reasons behind the round pen:

• Establishing a training ground for younger horses
• Separates the younger horses for the older horses
• Allows a smaller space for retired old horses
• Used for tourist purposes

Established Training Grounds For The Young Horses

Round pens are small pens compared to the other pens used for horses, and thus, helps to be a perfect training place for the younger horses. Since younger horses are more energetic and less well mannered because of their ever-growing development, the ranchers and farmers of the barn make sure to provide this space solely for that purpose. It helps to keep them on their toes and train the horse with ease because of how confined space is. 

It is important to understand that since these younger horses are not only young and energetic, they can also be quite fearful of the enclosure. This can pose problems when training younger horses. 

Naturally, horses do not enjoy being in enclosed spaces, so for the younger horses to be in one for their  first time can frighten them and have them run away. That is why many ranchers and farmers will make sure to use a lead to guide them safely to the entrance of the pen and calm them down as they enter.

Therefore, an important thing to establish when installing the round pen for these horses is to give enough space for them to roam free while also making sure there is enough enclosure for training. 

Separating The Younger Horses With The Older Ones

This helps out in terms of organization as not all-round pens are meant to be training grounds for the horses. Pens are meant to be a safe space for the horses to roam free and be themselves while also being safe from running off into the wild. It is simply there for them to run around and exercise. 

With this in mind, since the younger horses are much more excitable, they possess more energy than the older horses. Thus, as a way to help both the younger and the older horses, farmers and ranchers make sure to provide a smaller but still good enough space for the younger horses to roam free on, allowing the older horses to relax and still have their free space as well. 

In a way, think of it like how there is always a kid’s table during family gatherings. It helps to organize both the adults and the children that are in the event and allows for more space to be evenly distributed among the two.

Allows For A Safer Space For Retired Horses To Roam In

Much like how we have retirement homes for the elderly, round pens act the same for the older horses. Since their time to shine are now over and need a place to still relax and be comfy, round pens do that job quite well for them. This is all because of how small the area is, and considering how small the pen is; it does wonders for the horses as they don’t need much room to roam around in.

Additionally, it helps to organize the barn or ranch nicely, as mentioned above. When a horse gets older, they tend to be less active over time. This can pose a problem if the horses still roam around in their original pen while other more active horses roam. Therefore, the horses have their personal space to relax. It helps keep their morale high and can bring some close companionships to other retired horses, building a community as well.

A Small & Safe Place For Tourists To Enter

There are many ranches and barns that also serve as small tourist attractions in their hometowns. With people, especially from the city, often finding themselves out on the road with their family for summer vacations, who wouldn’t want to see how a barn or ranch works in real life?

With that in mind, the ranchers and farmers make sure to organize the pens for each animal, respectively, in a way for these sweet tourists as away for them to appreciate and enjoy the ranch and barn life. It also helps them to ensure the tourists stay clear of the animals that normally aren’t comfortable with large amounts of people. 

This is where the round pens come into play as many of these younger horses are eager to see what the fuzz is all about and, thus, provide a nice atmosphere for the parents and their children to be a part of. And if they ever visit the older horses, then some safety precautions are required for the safety of both the tourist and of the horse. This is all so that the horses don’t feel threatened as well.

Always Remember The Safety Of Others & Your Horses

At the end of the day, the round pens serve one major purpose, and that is safety. 

It helps to prevent the horses from running into the wild and have roam free as well as a place for possible tourists to come by and enter the pen so that they can interact with the horses. It is all for the sake of safety, so it is important to understand above all else when it comes to installing your round pen. 

That way, your horses are roaming with as much space as they need and are staying happy, healthy, and active as they should. Quite a treat for one of the most loyal animals on the planet!.

You do not need to be overly concerned when a horse keeps rubbing its face. Horses rub their faces to get relief from an itch. It is a natural and common habit that is not cause for alarm. 

Horses can rub their faces for a variety of reasons. It’s helpful to know what the common causes of excessive face itching are so that you can understand why your horse may be rubbing against his favorite fence post a little more often than usual. The list below outlines the most common causes of excessive face itching and the symptoms that accompany them. 

Why do Horses Rub Their Face?

When a horse is rubbing its face against something, the most likely reason is that it’s trying to scratch an itch. Horses are just like any other animal – they get itchy spots that need to be scratched one way or another. There are many reasons a horse can have an itchy face, including:

• Sweat After a Hot or Challenging Ride
• Itchy or Uncomfortable Bridle
• Allergies
• Sweet Itch
• Parasites

Some of these reasons are very typical for horses and can be easily managed with a little extra care and attention to cleaning habits. However, some issues may need medical intervention and further treatment. If you’re able to recognize the symptoms that accompany these reasons, you can more easily determine why your horse may be rubbing their face more frequently than usual. Once you’ve determined the cause, you can help them relieve the itch by using some of the techniques listed below.

Sweat After a Hot or Challenging Ride

If you notice that your horse rubs its face more frequently after returning from a particularly hot or fast-paced ride, it may simply be reacting to sweat on their face. Sweat can collect under a horse’s bridle and around the bit and cause itching or discomfort, particularly in hot or humid weather. If you notice that your horse has accumulated sweat on their face and is continually rubbing it, try placing a cold wet washcloth or towel over their face to bring them some relief. You can also give your horse a cold hose-down to help them cool off.

Itchy or Uncomfortable Bridle

Wearing a bridle for extended periods of time can be a minor irritation and cause some horses to vigorously rub their face once it has been removed. This can particularly be a problem in hotter months when sweat and dust collect under the bridle. One of the most effective ways to help relieve bridle itch is to literally give your horse a helping hand. After removing your horse’s bridle, give their face a rub-down with a bristled brush or curry comb. Not only will you help relieve your horse’s itch, but you’ll get some quality bonding time in as well!

If you notice any raised bumps or hives on the face around where the bridle is placed, your horse may be having an allergic reaction to the material on the bridle or bit. In this case, you’ll have to find another bridle for your horse that won’t irritate their skin. 

Allergies

Horses may be thick-skinned, but they are actually very susceptible to all sorts of allergies. Horses generally display allergic reactions through their skin or respiratory systems. This means that a horse who has been rubbing its face excessively could be exhibiting signs of an allergic reaction that is causing facial itching and discomfort. Below is a list of the most common allergens that horses may encounter and the ways in which they may manifest themselves on a horse’s face.

• Plants and Pollen
• Food Allergens
• Contact Allergens
• Musty Hay or Bedding

Plants

It is not uncommon for horses to have allergic reactions to certain plants or airborne pollen during the spring and summer months. Horses will generally display allergic reactions similar to those seen in humans, including:

• Red or Watery Eyes
• Runny Nose
• Dry or Flaky Skin
• Contact Dermatitis Around Nose and Muzzle
• Hives

If you notice your horse has been frequently rubbing their face and is displaying one or more of these symptoms, a plant-borne allergen could likely be the culprit. Allergies will often clear up on their own or once the weather gets cooler. However, if your horse seems very agitated or is breaking out in hives, you should contact a veterinarian to help you identify the allergen. 

Food Allergens

Severe allergic reactions to food are very uncommon in horses. However, just as a human might get a stomach ache from eating a food that doesn’t agree with them, horses can have adverse reactions to certain foods. If a horse is having an adverse reaction to something in its food, you may notice the following symptoms that could lead to increased face rubbing:

• Itchy Skin
• Red or Scaly Skin
• Hair Loss
• Localized swelling
• Hives
• Self-Trauma from Scratching

If you suspect your horse is allergic to something in its food, you may have to try an elimination diet to narrow down the offending nutrient. This can be time-consuming depending on how many ingredients are in your horse’s food. If you’re having trouble figuring out which ingredient is the culprit, you can also contact a veterinarian to perform an allergy test.

Contact Allergens

A horse can also get itchy skin or have adverse reactions to products that come into direct contact with their skin, such as tack equipment or cleaning products. If your horse is frequently rubbing its face after being brushed or washed, it could be reacting to something in its shampoo or brushes. This can usually easily by solved by using hypo-allergenic shampoo and grooming supplies. Listed below are some of the most popular hypoallergenic shampoo options for horses.

• Dechra DermabensS Shampoo
• Washbar Natural Horse Shampoo Bar
• Bayer HyLyt Shampoo

There are plenty of hypoallergenic brushes and tack equipment on the market for horses with sensitive skin. If you suspect your horse has a contact allergy, it will be worth investing in these products to ensure your horse is clean and comfortable.

Musty Hay or Bedding

While hay itself is highly unlikely to cause an allergic reaction in a horse, dust or mold found in the hay could do the trick. In addition to an itchy face and increased head rubbing, your horse will likely experience respiratory symptoms if they are experiencing a hay-related allergy. That’s why it’s extremely important to keep a horse’s stall clean and continually add fresh hay, especially during colder months when horses are spending more time in their stalls. 

Sweet Itch

Sweet Itch, or Summer Seasonal Recurrent Dermatitis, is one of the most commonly-known itching plagues to affect horses during the summer. Sweet Itch is the result of a horse’s allergic reaction from being bitten by a gnat called Colicoides midge, more commonly known as a “no-see-um.” These tiny gnats are almost impossible to see, and come around with a vengeance in hot, humid weather or where stagnant water is present. Dorsal feeders will go for the ears and mane, while Ventral feeders will cause issues on the face.

The symptoms of Sweet Itch can become visible within 48 hours of a horse being bitten, and include:

• Red and Inflamed Skin
• Severe Itching and Rubbing of Affected Areas
• Hair Loss in Affected Areas
• Crusting or Weeping Sores

Fortunately, symptoms of Sweet Itch will disappear in the winter, but you should still take preventative measures during hot weather to ensure your horse’s comfort. Make sure you keep pastures well-drained to avoid any stagnant water collecting, and always make sure your horse has fresh drinking water. In addition, you may want to keep your horses in their stalls after dusk during the summer when these gnats are most active.

Parasites

Because horses live the majority of their lives outdoors, they can fall prey to a number of internal and external parasites. External parasites can cause intense discomfort and anxiety for a horse, even if they don’t necessarily cause any visible external damage. Common external parasites that could leave horses rubbing their faces more frequently include:

• Mosquitoes
• Lice
• Mites
• House Flies
• Horse Flies
• Deer Flies

If your horse seems agitated and is rubbing its face more often than usual, check it for the presence of any of these parasites. Many horse owners use a fly mask to protect their horse’s face and ears from the bites of flies and mosquitoes. They are cost-effective and easy to use and can bring your horse immense relief from having to constantly rub its face to keep pests at bay.

It can be difficult to diagnose exactly why a horse may be rubbing its face more often than usual, but starting with the common reasons listed above will help you determine how to start diagnosing the underlying cause. Many of these issues can be easily solved and will bring your horse instantaneous and much-appreciated relief.

It is possible to keep a horse in a garden or yard. First, you should check with the local authority that it is legal for you to keep a horse on your property. Second, a single horse requires 1.25 – 2.5 acres of grazing land in order to live properly. Ensure adequate space, shelter, and enough area for it to exhibit normal behaviors.

A horse is a big responsibility and they are usually meant to be housed in a big area. But having a horse in your garden is not at all impossible. There are just some things to take into account before you bring a horse home to live in the yard. In this article we will take a look to see if being a backyard equestrian is right for you.

Considerations Of Owning A Horse

Considering you are a first time horse owner and you’re curious about getting your first horse, there are some things to keep in mind before you make the deal. 

Not only do we have the concern about having a horse in the garden, but there are many other duties and necessities involved in owning a horse. Owning a horse is not the same as having a pet. There is a lot more that goes into a horse than one may think. At the most basic end, you will need these things:

• A stable, stall or pen with at least some form of covering from the elements.
• Your horse will need access, in their living area, to water.
• Shavings for their bedding, regularly cleaned out and replaced.
• Storage for bedding as well as hay.
• Twice daily feedings, every day.
• Regular mucking of the living area.
• Storage for saddles, bridles, rope and other tack.
• Electricity, for tools, lights and heating.
• A shovel, pitchfork, brooms, wheelbarrow and container for mucking.
• A plan for disposing of muck piles.
• Access to feed, or a delivery service.
• Access to a veterinarian.

That’s just the basics, there are certainly more things involved in owning a horse. If you feel that these commitments are not too much for you and your situation, then perhaps owning a horse is for you. 

However, most yards and gardens do not have all the necessities listed above, and many can not fit them. So, ensure you can provide everything before putting a horse in your garden. In addition…

Is it Legal To Keep A Horse In The Back Garden?

It depends. If you own the property and you intend to keep a horse, it may be possible. The legality of the issue depends on where you live and if your property is zoned properly for the owning of a horse. You should be able to check on the legality of things simply by calling your local council. 

You might need to talk to somebody in the zoning or planning department of your town before building any structures, like stables or pens. 

It may be as simple as being given the go ahead, or you may need to pay fees, sign paperwork or pass an inspection. Again, it’s all a matter of your local ordinances and there can be vast differences between even neighboring jurisdictions. 

It is not altogether rare to see horses stabled in back gardens in rural areas outside of town, or even in suburban areas with decent access to property. Having a horse in an urban setting in this day and age may be possible. It’s not recommended, but it can be possible given a lot of preparation and hard work. 

What Will The Neigh-bors Say?

Local authority gives you the go ahead, you’ve made the commitment in time, money, structure and resources, and you’re ready to buy that horse. But, there is another box on our list that we need to check. Even if it is legal for you to keep a horse, if a neighbor complains, it could cause problems.

 It could be a neighborly spat, but it could be as much as legal action being taken against you. It should come as no surprise that most people wouldn’t want to live next to a muck pile. Enough complaints could result in you being forced to board the horse, pay fines and fees or worse if you didn’t perform your due diligence. 

So, it would be wise to check with the neighbors before delving too deep into this adventure. It could even garner some information on any other people who may have tried it in your area. You never know. You might get some helpful advice or meet someone nearby who has horses in their garden that you didn’t even know about. 

How Will The Horse Live?

Horses need a lot of space to graze and roam. They need a lot of open, good terrain to exercise daily. Even though the bare minimum of a horse’s living area is between 1.25 – 2.5 acres, they would do better with more. If your intentions are to keep the horse at home all of the time, it would be very wise to rethink things. 

If you will have the access and the ability to get the horse out for rides or at the least, led walks, you’ll need to do so quite a bit. In order for a horse to stay in proper shape and maintain excellent health all around, they need to exercise for around two hours a day. Without proper exercise a horse can suffer from a long list of ailments. Such as;

• Poor Circulation – Because of their long legs and musculature, healthy blood circulation needs to be maintained through regular exercise.
• Digestive Issues – Confined animals can develop constipation and impactions.
• Psychological Issues – A number of disorders and behaviors stem from boredom brought on by a lack of exercise.
• Boredom – Boredom itself can lead horses to gain or lose weight, act up, and significantly reduce their healthy lifespan.
• Muscle Atrophy – Those giant muscles need to move and without a solid routine they can develop imbalances and muscle damage that can stick with them for life.
• Poor Temperament – A bored, under stimulated horse can be unpredictable and could cause harm to others.
• Disease – A stressed animal is much more likely to be susceptible to a myriad of disease and cancers.

As you can see, they’re sensitive creatures. Horses require a lot more attention, care and resources than most animals that people choose to keep in their gardens. In order for these animals to get the most out of their lives, they need to live a healthier lifestyle than most people and without a good routine they can really suffer.

Should You Keep A Horse In Your Garden?

If your local council deems it legal, your neighbors are ok with a horse on the property, and you’ve the time, money, access and resources, then by all means go for it. If you have the dedication to exercise your horse, you’ve got access to the area to ride and walk and the animal’s living area and grazing area is large enough, you might just be able to keep a horse in your garden. 

There are also alternatives to owning a horse, such as, volunteering, leasing, student work, free riding, and lessons. So, is bringing a horse into your garden the right choice? Given you are able to check all the boxes we’ve listed in this article, it might be.

A horse’s hoof can change color. In fact, in some cases, it is totally normal for a horse’s hoof to change color. When this color change is coupled with negative symptoms like limping or discomfort, it may be a sign of an underlying medical issue. 

Even though a change in a horse’s hoof color isn’t a death sentence, it is important that you are aware of the cause of this change in order to properly address it. In order to do this, you need to know what is normal for your horse. 

What is a Normal Hoof Color?

Horse’s can have a hoof color of white, black, or a combination of both. Typically, a horse’s hoof will match the pattern of their leg hair. For example, an all-black horse will likely have four all-black hooves, but a horse with a mixture of colors on its legs will likely have mixed colored hooves. 

Like most things with pets, you have to know your horse to know what is normal for them, and this level of familiarity takes time. As long as your horse isn’t experiencing discomfort when trying to walk, there is no reason to assume that something is wrong. 

Now, the alteration of a horse’s hoof is rather uncommon in domesticated horses, but there are a few circumstances where you can expect for your horse’s hooves to change color. 

What Causes a Horse’s Hoof to Change Color?

White Line Disease

White Line Disease, also known as seedy toe, refers to a fungal and/or bacterial infection that eats away at a horse’s hoof. The infection is progressive and if left untreated, will damage the hoof until the horse can no longer walk. 

Contrary to what the name would have you believe, the “white line” isn’t the first sign of the disease. The “white line” is a reference to the area on a horse’s foot where the hoof wall and the sole of the foot meet. This area often appears white on a horse, hence the name. 

If the sole of the horse’s foot becomes separated from the hoof wall, this leaves the horse vulnerable to this infection as there are several ways that white line disease can begin to develop in the hoof. 

One of the first noticeable signs that your horse has white line disease is the presence of powdery or crumbly dark tissue at the white line of the hoof. This is often discovered during routine trimmings, and if this is the only unusual thing that is observed, then it is likely that the disease is very early in its progression. 

If the dark tissue is accompanied by visible damage to the hoof wall or sunken or raised areas of the hoof, then it is important that you seek medical attention for your horse as soon as possible. 

There are solutions and products that can successfully treat white line disease, so this infection will not automatically call for your horse to enter early retirement. Even so, it is vital that you catch this infection before it spreads and causes significant damage to ensure a speedy recovery for your horse. 

Changes in Diet 

Wild horses who forage for their food are subject to the changes that their food goes through as the seasons change. 

During the growing season, the nutrient content in the grass and other plants increases. The added nutrients can cause light-colored rings to appear around the horse hooves. This change is temporary, and the rings will fade as the horse’s diet changes. 

Domesticated horses are less likely to be affected by the changes in the level of nutrients of the plants in their environment because they do not have to rely on nature to provide the bulk of their diet. In addition to eating grass, horses who have been domesticated have caretakers that feed them other things like hay, rolled oats, and bran. 

Grass and other plants inevitably make a much smaller percentage of the horse’s nutrient intake, making the effects of the seasons less dramatic on the horse. 

There is no treatment for a change in hoof pigment due to changes in a diet because this color change has no negative effect on the horse. These rings are purely cosmetic and will not cause your horse any pain at all. 

Corns and other Bruising 

Corns are a specific type of bruise that occurs on the sole of a horse’s hoof between the hoof wall and the bars also known as the seat of corn. This type of bruising is often the result of ill-fitting shoes or other trauma afflicted in the same area and usually results in hemorrhaging. 

There are three different types of corns depending on the level of inflammation that has been allowed to develop and the fluid build up in the hoof. 

1. Dry corns –– A hemorrhage that causes thinning of the sole at the seat of corn. 
2. Moist corns –– a collection of inflammatory fluid as a result of bruising
3. Suppurating corns –– Pus formation that has developed under the sole at the seat of the corn due to penetration of the hoof. 

One visible symptom of dry corns is red bruising over the infected area. This color distortion may be difficult to find without the affected horn (hoof wall)  growing downward. All three types can be visibly diagnosed when the overlaying sole is pared away. 

Although all types of corns have some sort of visible symptom, a more certain diagnosis will come from the level of discomfort your horse is experiencing. Some of which include:

• The horse’s foot feeling unnaturally warm to the touch 
• Signs of lameness
• Pain response to hoof testers 
• Increased digital horse strength 

There are ways to treat corns without further damaging the hoof. First, the shoes of the injured foot must be removed in order to properly treat the infected area. 

Suppurating corns require draining to remove the collected pus. Dry corns only needs to be pared with a hoof knife in order to relieve pressure, and moist corns can be treated in the same way. The hoof then must be dressed and bandaged appropriately, and the horse needs to rest until it has recovered. 

Thrush is an Unwanted Infection

Thrush is an infection of a horse’s frog (the underside of a horse’s foot extending from the toe to the heel) caused by unsanitary stall conditions and excessive moisture. 

This infection, which is usually bacterial but can be fungal on occasion, is characterized by foul-smelling black discharge in the affected area of the frog. If this infection is left untreated long enough or is especially aggressive, then the frog could suffer significant damage leaving more sensitive tissue exposed. 

Although the color and smell of the infection are enough to diagnose it as thrush, your horse may also experience pain when applying pressure on the foot in question. 

In order to treat thrush, the horse must be removed from the unclean environment into a dry, clean area, the infected foot needs to be cleaned and pared to remove the damaged tissue, and the frog should be scrubbed daily with a dilute iodine solution. 

Sometimes a Horse’s Hoof Will Change Color

 As long as you have routine maintenance for your horse and its area and keep it on a consistent diet, you shouldn’t have to worry about any color changes in any of its hooves. If you notice any suspicious pigmentation, pay close attention to your horse’s behavior as this may be an early sign of an infection. 

They are elegant and fast, plus their jockeys are skilled in helping them race the best that they can. You’ve probably wondered if the actual horses have any concept of the race and if they feel as excited or exhilarated as you do. 

Horses do have a concept of racing when playing with one another as yearlings. They like to race one another, one often becoming more competitive than the other.

This competitive nature can translate to the racing world, and the racing horse will not want any other horses to pass it—many horses are born with this trait and raised as a racehorse to compete against others just like them.  

Horses may not view races precisely as we do; however, they do have some concept. If people bet money on them, they most likely don’t have the idea of the stakes at hand. They may view racing as a fun activity while their jockey and owner are anxiously awaiting the results. Other horses with a strong competitive streak may see it as a serious business and not want to allow other horses to pass it as a way to exude dominance over them. 

What Do Horses Think Of Racing?   

Some Horses Find Racing To Be Competitive

Wild horses have a hierarchy of dominance in a herd. Domesticated horses also have this instinctual behavior when around other horses. This desire to dominate is a survival tactic that allows the dominant horse to do various activities before the others.

They also can lead the herd. Horses may feel this need to dominate the other racing horses by finishing before them in a race. 

Other Horses May Find Racing Fun

The horses that don’t feel as strong of a competitive edge to run faster than other horses may simply race because they find it fun. Horses tend to race one another as yearlings as a form of play.

Horses may view running with each other on a track in this way, too. While these horses may not be the best racehorses since their competitive streak isn’t as strong, they could still be formidable opponents if they have raw racing talent and speed. 

Horses Feel Like Part Of A Herd

Many racehorses that end up in the middle of the group during a race take on the herd dynamic. Which means that they will run because the group is doing it.

Often if a horse remains in the middle too long, it is hard to break away to the front because of their dynamic with the herd. They see themselves as part of the pack and the horse out front as the leader. There are exceptions to this, but this can happen during a race. 

Do Horses Know If They Won Or Lost A Race? 

Horses Don’t Quite Understand The Stakes  

Racehorses have no concept of trophies, ribbons, or money. So, they don’t view a win or loss in quite the same way as we do. Horses don’t race with the same motivation as we do or push for the win for the same reasons, either. They run on their motivations, often to lead the herd or have some competitive fun with other horses. 

Horses Can Read Body Language

While the horses may not be motivated by monetary gains or notoriety, they are aware of the people’s reactions. Horses are very perceptive and can read body language to tell if the people around them are happy or sad. They desire happy responses rather than sad ones, which could motivate them to win simply to get those preferred reactions.

This desire, paired with a competitive nature, can create a formidable racehorse. 

Horses Give Off Hormones Depending On “Winning” Or “Losing” 

Horses show rising and falling hormones depending on different winning and losing scenarios in nature. While racing on a track is far from what is natural to a horse, it could be applied.

Horses that challenge other males to access female horses show rising and falling hormones depending on whether they thwarted the other horse or not. If a horse’s hormone level was as tested after a race, this could prove whether racing affects the horse in this way. 

Do Some Horses Like Racing More Than Others? 

Some Horses May Favor Racing Over Others

Horses have personalities as we do. Similarly, they also have different interests and motivations. Some horses enjoy racing and running with others. Other horses get spooked by the track or being so close to other horses. While these behaviors can be changed frequently, these horses can find a use for other things, such as a pet or service horse rather than a racehorse. 

Horses Can Feel A Sense Of Pride In Racing

While the feeling may be shortlived, horses can show off the body language of pride after a win. It showcases as prancing around and shaking their head excitedly while neighing or cuddling their human.

This prideful stance can often disappear moments after a race once they get back to their barn. Their feeding is the next thing on their mind, and it’s hard to say whether they go back to thinking about racing again until they end up back on the track. 

You Can’t Always Take The Wild Out Of The Horse

Some horses, especially those recently domesticated, may not adhere to racing rules and behaviors. It is not a con on their part, merely a preference from the horse.

The horse may not like wearing the saddle or being led by a jockey. While diligent work with the horse may change its behaviors, it isn’t always a sure thing. Unless the horse is going to be a beast on the track, it’s probably better to find another horse to train. 

How Can You Prepare A Horse To Race?  

Your Horse Should Be Regularly Trained. Racehorses are just like human athletes. They need to be conditioned and trained throughout the year to keep in tip-top shape. This method will also help keep the horse in the racing mindset, which will translate well once it gets onto the track. You need to make sure that the horse is training carefully, though. Too much strain or running can lead to injury or stress before or even during the big race. 

Make Sure Your Horse Is Following A Healthy Diet 

While it is easy to spoil your horse during the off-season, make sure that you are also giving it proper nutrition. You can provide it with nutritional supplements to help keep its body healthy.

You should also get your horse checked regularly by a vet to ensure any illness or injuries don’t sneak up before a race. Inform your groomers to keep their coat and horseshoes in pristine condition year-round as well.  

Provide Safe And Comfortable Transportation

Comfortable transportation can help decrease stress for you and your racehorse. Any increase in stress levels can negatively impact your horse’s performance on race day.

It may seem like a small thing to consider. However, you should think about how you are traveling to the track, and if your horse is getting similar luxuries. Some race tracks may also be hours away, so the last you want is your horse getting cramped and overheated in a poorly ventilated transport.