Should you look a horse in the eye?

Quick Peek:

To make eye contact or not to make eye contact with a horse? That’s the age-old question that has been debated by trainers for years. Some say that soft eye contact is the way to go, while others swear by hard eye contact to establish dominance. But according to experts, the best approach depends on the individual horse and situation. So, pay attention to the horse’s body language and respond accordingly. Let’s delve deeper into this fascinating topic.

Should You Look a Horse in the Eye?

When it comes to interacting with horses, there are many opinions on how to establish a connection with these majestic animals. One of the most debated topics is whether or not you should look a horse in the eye. Some trainers suggest using soft eye contact, while others believe hard contact is necessary to establish dominance over the herd.

Soft Eye Contact

Soft eye contact involves looking at the horse but also keeping a wide field of view. This technique is often used to create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The idea behind this approach is that horses are prey animals and can become easily spooked. Therefore, making direct eye contact can be seen as a threat, which may cause the horse to feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Some experts believe that soft eye contact is the best way to build trust and respect with a horse. By using this technique, you can show the horse that you are aware of its presence and that you are not a threat. Soft eye contact can also help the horse feel more comfortable around you, which can make training and riding easier.

Hard Eye Contact

On the other hand, some trainers believe that hard eye contact is necessary to establish dominance over the herd. This technique involves making direct eye contact with the horse and holding the gaze until the horse looks away. The idea behind this approach is that horses are herd animals and have a natural hierarchy. By making direct eye contact, you can assert yourself as the leader of the herd.

However, some experts argue that hard eye contact can be seen as aggressive and may cause the horse to feel threatened or unsafe. This can lead to a breakdown in communication and may make training and riding more difficult.

So, What’s the Verdict?

Ultimately, the decision to use soft or hard eye contact with a horse depends on the individual horse and the situation. Some horses may respond better to soft eye contact, while others may require a more assertive approach. It’s important to remember that every horse is different, and what works for one horse may not work for another.

When interacting with a horse, it’s important to pay attention to its body language and respond accordingly. If the horse seems uncomfortable or agitated, it may be best to use a softer approach. On the other hand, if the horse seems disinterested or unresponsive, a more assertive approach may be necessary.

Conclusion

Overall, the debate over whether or not to look a horse in the eye is one that will likely continue for years to come. While some trainers swear by soft eye contact, others believe that hard eye contact is the key to establishing dominance. Ultimately, the best approach is one that takes into account the individual horse and the situation at hand. By paying attention to the horse’s body language and responding accordingly, you can build a strong and trusting relationship with these magnificent animals.