Assessment of relationships between reactions of horses during everyday use

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess whether observations of a horse’s reactions during everyday activities can be used to predict its behaviour during riding. The study was conducted on 60 horses of the Malopolski breed, aged 5 to 15 years. The horses were kept in three riding stables, in a box system. The data were obtained from an interview conducted with a person responsible for the daily grooming and handling of the horses. Observations covered at least half a year of daily contact with the horse. The horses’ behaviour was analysed before feeding, during preparation for riding, and during riding. The research shows that aggressive behaviours before feeding may be a marker of inappropriate reactions before and during recreational riding. Initial activities preparing the horse, i.e. approaching the animal, grooming, bridling and saddling, can be used as a ‘test’ to evaluate and predict the quality of the ride. Problems with these procedures also suggest significant problems during riding. The behaviour of the animal before feeding and during preparations for riding should be considered an important indicator of riding safety and comfort.