When looking to buy or work with a horse, assessing its temperament is one of the most important things you can do. A horse’s temperament refers to its general attitude and behavior. Horses with a good temperament are calmer, more obedient, and less likely to act out dangerously. Evaluating a horse’s temperament will help ensure you find an animal that is safe and suitable for your needs. There are several key things to look for when judging whether a horse has a good disposition.
Look for signs of calmness
A calm demeanor is the most basic indicator of a good temperament in horses. Horses that are relaxed and gentle are easier and safer to handle. Here are some signs to look for:
- The horse stands still and quietly, without fidgeting or dancing around.
- It isn’t spooked easily by sights, sounds, or touches.
- Its eyes are soft and its ears are relaxed.
- It doesn’t seem high-strung, nervous, or hypersensitive.
- The horse isn’t aggressive toward people or showing signs of irritability like pinning ears back.
Calm behavior when interacting with people is a very good sign. But also observe the horse when it doesn’t think anyone is watching. Does it seem relaxed grazing in a field or resting in a stall? If you see signs of nervousness like pacing or aggression toward other horses, that could indicate a poor temperament.
Assess the horse’s reaction to handling
How a horse responds to being handled and trained is very revealing of its temperament. Horses with good temperaments will be compliant when worked with. Signs to look for include:
- It allows its head, legs, and body to be touched all over without reacting negatively.
- Standing calmly while being groomed, tacked up, or clipped.
- Picking up its feet easily when asked.
- Not tossing its head or resisting bridling.
- Generally obedient to voice commands and physical cues.
Horses that tolerate handling calmly are much safer for riders and handlers. Difficulty with routine care like grooming or tacking could indicate resistance that makes the horse unsuitable for many equestrians.
Observe the horse’s response to stressful situations
All horses can get anxious or reactive in certain circumstances. But horses with good temperaments should recover quickly and not overreact. Notice how the horse responds to:
- Being in a new environment.
- Interacting with unfamiliar horses.
- Loud noises like traffic or crowds.
- Sudden movements near it.
Ideally, the horse will startle initially but then relax. Certain situations like trailering require some patience. But a horse that remains panicked, plunges uncontrollably, or gets aggressive is showing dangerous behavior.
Pay attention to the horse’s interaction with other horses
Horses are herd animals, so how they get along with other horses also indicates their temperament. Signs of a good disposition include:
- Getting along peacefully with pasture mates.
- Not constantly biting, kicking, or chasing others.
- Respecting the space of more dominant horses.
- Not reacting aggressively to normal social behaviors.
Some conflict is normal in a herd. But extremely domineering or submissive horses can be more difficult to handle. A middle-of-the-road horse that’s relaxed with the herd is ideal.
Consider the breed and history of the horse
Genetics and past treatment can both impact temperament. Some breeds like Arabians and Thoroughbreds are more often high-strung. Trauma or abuse in a horse’s past could also lead to ongoing behavioral issues.
Ask about:
- The horse’s breed and pedigree.
- Its early training and handling history.
- Any indications that it was mistreated.
This background can offer useful insight into potential temperament issues to look out for or avoid.
Have an experienced horse handler assess the horse
If you aren’t confident in your ability to judge temperament, ask an expert to evaluate the horse for you. A riding instructor, trainer, or veterinarian who is very familiar with horse behavior can provide an informed opinion. They may spot and understand subtle signs of good or bad temperament that you could miss.
Spend adequate time interacting with and observing the horse
You can’t get a true sense of a horse’s temperament from a quick once-over. Plan to interact with and watch the horse for an extended period like several hours or days if possible. The more situations you see the horse in, the better sense you’ll have of its general demeanor and how it reacts to stress. Be patient and don’t rush the process.
Conclusion
Evaluating a horse’s temperament takes time and an understanding of equine behavior. Signs of a good disposition include calmness, tolerance of handling, quick recovery from stress, and peaceful herd interactions. Consider the horse’s breed history, have an expert assess the horse, and spend adequate time with it before making a judgment. With the right approach, you can determine whether a particular horse has the type of temperament that makes it a safe and enjoyable companion.