My granddaughter’s barrel horse bowed a tendon — and her first question was the same one I hear from most new horse owners: Why are horses so fragile? The short answer is evolution. Horses were built for speed, not durability, and the conditions of domestic life push that design past its limits in ways wild …
When horse people talk about spotted horse breeds, they usually mean a handful of breeds carrying real leopard-complex genetics — though some folks asking about “spotted horses” are actually thinking of pinto patterns, which is a different thing entirely. The most common spotted horse breeds are: Appaloosa. Knabstrupper. Pony of the Americas. British Spotted Pony. …
If your horse has heaves, one of the first things most owners look at is the feed bucket and hay rack. I know that was one of my first concerns with our own mare: are we feeding her in a way that makes breathing harder, and what changes might actually help? The foundation of feeding …
Are you planning a family trip to see wild horses, or do you live near a herd and wonder whether they are dangerous? Seeing horses roaming freely is an incredible experience, but it is natural to ask whether one could hurt you if you get too close. Wild horses can attack humans, but it is …
Have you ever been around horsemen and heard someone say a horse “changed leads” – or watched a race where an announcer said a horse “failed to switch leads” and wondered what that meant? Maybe you own a horse that consistently stays on one lead and you’re trying to understand why. Switching leads simply means …
Recently we were at a horse show and noticed the perfectly groomed manes and tails on many of the competitors. Seeing that made me want to break down exactly how owners get that smooth, straight-hanging look. Quick Answer: A straight-hanging mane and tail comes mostly from consistent care, not a single trick: regular conditioning, careful …
Why do jockeys use whips in horse racing? Jockeys use whips in horse racing for three stated purposes: to encourage speed, assist with steering, and manage safety. Research has increasingly challenged all three claims. Studies have found no consistent improvement in finishing times when whips are used, and “hands and heels” races — where jockeys …
Horses are not omnivores — they’re herbivores. Their teeth, their digestive system, and their day-to-day behavior are all built around one thing: processing plant fiber, not meat. So if you’ve ever wondered, are horses omnivores, herbivores, or something in between, the answer starts with how their bodies are built. I grew up around horses, including …
There are many enjoyable things about owning a horse, such as riding it around a course, testing your skills against other riders, and the joy of teaching them new routines. But there are a few parts of owning a horse that is less fun; one of these is grooming your horse. Horses should be brushed …
Have you ever wondered, “Can horses sit like dogs?” Or maybe you’ve seen one appear to be sitting and wanted to know what was really going on? No, horses don’t sit down like dogs or cats. Their bodies are built for standing, moving, and lying down—not for resting in a true seated position. In this …
