Aggressive behavior can have its roots in fear. When a fearful horse is restrained or feels trapped, evasion can escalate to aggression. | Photo: iStock
Q.Will you watch this video of my mare and let me know if this behavior is something you might be able to help with? My mare is 5 ½ years old and has been striking out like this with her front legs in the school (arena) with me on the ground. Is she trying to harm me or is she frightened?
—via Facebook
A. The video shows a horse behaving aggressively. She’s at liberty, and as you approach, her body is positioned directly toward you; she pins her ears, paws, strikes, and rears several times. In contrast, a fearful horse will typically try to avoid being caught, and turn, walk, or run away when a person approaches
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Robin Foster, PhD, CAAB, IAABC-Certified Equine Behavior Consultant holds a doctorate in animal behavior and has taught courses in animal learning and behavior for more than 30 years and currently teaches university courses in equine behavior and welfare at Virginia Tech and the University of Guelph. Robin’s research looks at equine learning and behavior. She also provides in person and remote behavior consultations.
Why is This Horse Rearing?
Q.Will you watch this video of my mare and let me know if this behavior is something you might be able to help with? My mare is 5 ½ years old and has been striking out like this with her front legs in the school (arena) with me on the ground. Is she trying to harm me or is she frightened?
—via Facebook
A. The video shows a horse behaving aggressively. She’s at liberty, and as you approach, her body is positioned directly toward you; she pins her ears, paws, strikes, and rears several times. In contrast, a fearful horse will typically try to avoid being caught, and turn, walk, or run away when a person approaches
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Written by:
Robin Foster, PhD, Cert. Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB), Cert. Horse Behavior Consultant (CHBC)
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