US Department of Agriculture, USDA Forest Service, Technology and Development Program Banner with Logos.
Images from various aspects of the T&D Program.
HomeAbout T&DT&D PubsT&D NewsProgram AreasHelpContact Us
  T&D > T&D Pubs > Defensive Horse Safety T&D Publications Header

Defensive Horsemanship Training
Understanding Horses
Perception
Flight Animal
Fast Reflexes
Fast Learner/Excellent Memory
Dominance Hierarchy
Body Language
Easily Desensitized
Critical Learning Time
Body Language

Paying close attention to a horse's movement and disposition are critical to safety while working around stock.

A head held high and wide open eyes may indicate a frightened animal that is ready to bolt.

A horse with its head held down performing licking movements with its mouth is submissive and acquiescent to leadership.

  • A slight decline of the head indicates an inclination to accept you as leader.

  • A full decline of the head (eating posture) indicates acceptance of you as leader.

  • A horse bumping its nose against the ground indicates overwhelming submissiveness.
Icon indicating a file in Adobe Acrobat portable document format to print this presentation. Contents | Back | Next
Home
25 of 85