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Are you considering owning horses and dreaming of riding them whenever you want? While having horses on your own property can be a fulfilling experience, it’s essential to understand the challenges that come with owning only two horses. In this blog post, we will explore the herd-bound problems and the importance of companionship for horses. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of the potential issues and how to address them effectively.
What is a herd bound horse?
Horses are naturally herd animals. Horses find safety and companionship in a group. In the wild, horses rely on each other for protection and support. When you have only one horse, or a pair, herd-bound behaviours can arise due to separation anxiety and fear. These behaviours may include pacing, refusal to eat, constant calling out, or running along the fence line.
Can horses live alone?
Mocha (our mare) moved from a boarding facility to our farm once the facility was sold. Initially I was not planning to buy another horse but you can’t just have one.
Mocha lived alone on our farm for approximately 6 months. Looking back, the biggest thing I noticed was once Peanut arrived she began to let her guard down. She would lay down on the ground and would sleep for long periods of time. She was exhausted.
At the time we did not have stalls so she never had a time to fully rest. Mocha needed to be cautious and aware of her surroundings at all times because she didn’t have a herd to protect her.
Sometimes it’s nice to ‘see’ someone while they are explaining things. If this is you, check out the link to my YouTube video below!
How can you tell if your horse is lonely?
There are some horses that prefer to live alone but the majority prefer company. Living alone can take a toll on a horse’s overall well-being. Just like humans, horses can become lonely, depressed, and withdrawn when lacking companionship. It’s crucial to read your horse’s body language to identify signs of loneliness because horses can’t talk. Watch for changes in behaviour such as pacing, refusal to eat, or cribbing (chewing on wood).
Do horses need companions?
If owning a second horse isn’t possible, there are alternative companion options to consider. Goats, cows, donkeys, or miniature horses can provide companionship to horses. However, it’s important to remember that each of these animals will have different care requirements and will require specific fencing and different feed.
If you are new to horses and considering buying a horse, please read my blog post “Avoid These Mistakes When Buying Your First Horse”. Unfortunately, in the horse world there are a lot of people that take advantage of inexperienced equestrians. I have had first hand experience so I want you to learn from my mistakes.
What happens if you only have two horses?
Separating two horses can be a stressful experience for both animals involved. The horse left behind in the paddock may become upset and anxious, while the one leaving wants its companion to join. This instant panic can lead to injuries and heightened anxiety. It’s vital to recognize the impact of separation on your horses and find strategies to decrease their distress.
Can you break a horse from being herd bound?
Addressing herd-bound behaviour requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of equine social behaviour. Gradual exposure to separation can help horses become more comfortable with new situations. Start by grooming one horse on the other side of the fence and gradually increase the distance as both horses gain confidence. Creating positive associations with new experiences is key to helping horses feel secure when separated from their herd.
How do you help herd bound horses?
By understanding your horse’s fears and needs, you can build a strong bond with your equine companion. Spending time getting to know your horse’s behaviour and preferences will help you create an incredible connection. Remember, it’s essential to consider your horse’s safety and comfort when exposing them to new situations.
Owning only two horses presents unique challenges, particularly when it comes to herd-bound behaviours and separation anxiety. Companionship is vital for horses’ overall well-being, and understanding their social nature can help you address these issues effectively. Patience, consistency, and gradual exposure are key to overcoming herd-bound behaviour. By focusing on creating positive experiences and a strong bond, you can provide a comfortable environment for your horses. Remember to always prioritize the safety and happiness of your equine companions.
Comment Below
Have you experienced herd bound issues with your tiny herd of two? Let me know in the comments how you dealt with overcoming these concerns. It’s always great to hear how fellow horse owners tackle challenges. We tend to learn as we go.
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