Should you look a horse in the eyes?

Quick Peek:

To look a horse in the eyes or not? That is the question. Some trainers say it’s a sign of respect and trust, while others claim it’s a sign of dominance and aggression. Soft eye contact is a safer bet, as it shows respect while keeping a wide field of view. Hard eye contact, on the other hand, can be seen as a challenge to the horse’s authority. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which approach to take, depending on the situation at hand. Just remember to be mindful of the horse’s body language and reactions.

Should You Look a Horse in the Eyes?

As a horse enthusiast with over 20 years of experience in horse riding, I’ve heard a lot of different opinions on whether or not you should look a horse in the eyes. Some trainers say it’s a sign of respect and trust, while others argue that it’s a sign of dominance and aggression. But what about eye contact? Should you use soft eye contact or hard eye contact when dealing with horses?

Soft Eye Contact

Some reports suggest that using soft eye contact when dealing with horses is the best approach. This means looking at the horse but also keeping a wide field of view. Soft eye contact is often seen as a sign of respect and trust, as it shows that you are not threatening the horse and that you are aware of your surroundings. It’s important to remember that horses are prey animals, and they are always on the lookout for potential predators. By using soft eye contact, you can show the horse that you are not a threat and that you are aware of your surroundings.

Soft eye contact can also be beneficial when working with nervous or anxious horses. By keeping a wide field of view, you can help the horse feel more comfortable and less threatened. This can be especially important when introducing a horse to a new environment or when working with a horse that has had a traumatic experience in the past.

Hard Eye Contact

On the other hand, some trainers indicate that hard eye contact is preferred to establish your dominance over the herd. Hard eye contact means staring directly into the horse’s eyes, without blinking or looking away. This can be seen as a sign of aggression and dominance, as it shows the horse that you are not afraid and that you are in control.

However, it’s important to remember that horses are not dogs or wolves. While dominance theory may work with some species, it’s not necessarily the best approach when working with horses. Horses are social animals, and they rely on trust and respect to form relationships with humans. By using hard eye contact, you can actually damage the trust and respect that the horse has for you.

So, What’s the Verdict?

Ultimately, the decision of whether to use soft eye contact or hard eye contact when dealing with horses is up to you. It’s important to remember that every horse is different, and what works for one horse may not work for another. However, as a general rule, it’s best to use soft eye contact when working with horses. This shows the horse that you are not a threat and that you are aware of your surroundings. It can also help to build trust and respect between you and the horse.

Of course, there are times when hard eye contact may be necessary. For example, if a horse is being aggressive or dangerous, you may need to establish your dominance and show the horse that you are in control. However, these situations should be rare, and you should always use caution when using hard eye contact.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to looking a horse in the eyes, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It’s important to consider the individual horse and the situation at hand. However, as a general rule, using soft eye contact is the best approach. This shows the horse that you are not a threat and that you are aware of your surroundings. It can also help to build trust and respect between you and the horse, which is essential for a positive and productive relationship.

So, the next time you’re working with a horse, remember to use soft eye contact and be aware of your surroundings. With patience, respect, and trust, you can build a strong and meaningful relationship with your equine partner.