Because they are sociable creatures, horses typically appreciate the company of other people. They frequently develop strong ties with their owners.
Your horse will frequently express affection for you after spending time with you. How a horse feels towards you can be determined in a variety of ways.
Here are eight indicators that a horse likes and trusts you.
1. They Come Up to Greet You
When a horse recognizes you, they frequently approach you to say hello. They might rush to the pasture fence to greet you or they might be patiently waiting at their stall door.
A horse will display their liking for you by coming to greet you with eagerness. They are eager to spend time with you when they approach to say hello.
2. They Nicker or Whinny For You
Horses frequently nicker and whine when they see someone they know. When they want to attract the attention of other horses or people, they frequently vocalize with a whinny or nicker.
Your horse is excited to see you if it nickers as you approach. They can greet you as someone they care about by nickering.
3. They Rest Their Head on You
A horse’s head resting on yours is a symbol of trust. They feel at ease and trust you enough to lay their heads on you.
A horse will bond with you and express its love by resting its head on your shoulder. They’re telling you that they like being around you. It resembles their version of an embrace.
4. They Nudge You
Although nudging can refer to various things, it’s frequently used to describe a horse showing you affection. The act of being nudged can be compared to receiving a hug or kiss from a horse.
A horse that likes you will frequently prod you in an effort to get your attention. A horse may gently prod you as a means of saying “I love you.” They also mean to lick or lip you in addition to nudging you.
5. They Are Relaxed Around You
A horse is showing that they like and trust you when they are at ease around you. Your horse is communicating that they feel safe with you when they are relaxed around you.
Your horse will exhibit behaviors like licking and chewing, dropping their head, sighing, and cocking a back leg when they feel comfortable with you.
A horse that respects you will feel secure enough to unwind in your presence.
A horse truly demonstrates trust when they allow you to approach them while they are lying down. Since horses are more vulnerable while they are lying down, they show a lot of trust and affection by letting you approach them.
6. They Groom You Back
One of the best ways to develop a bond with your horse is via grooming. Your horse will treat you as a buddy if they groom you back.
In the wild, horses groom one another not only because it feels nice to them but also because it is a method for them to express their love for one another. They’ll gnaw on each other’s necks, backs, and withers.
Your horse is trying to groom you if they chew on your head or shoulder. They can express their liking for you in this way.
7. They Show You Respect
Respect is a symbol of trust in horses. Your horse will respect you if they like and trust you.
A horse will regard you as the leader if it has faith in you. They’ll respect your personal space and orders. A horse that likes you will obey your directions, which is another indication of respect.
Some horses will even stick close to their owners. Horses follow you because they believe you will look after them. They will demonstrate their appreciation for you in this way.
8. They Breathe on Your Face
A horse approaching you and breathing on your face is an indication of respect and trust. Horses will gently blow air on one other via their noses to express their affection.
A horse will blow on your face as an indication that they see you as a dependable friend. If they consider you a member of their family, horses will breathe in your face.
It is a popular way for horses to express their love for the people they care about.
Learn more: Tips on How to Overcome Your Fear of Horse Riding