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Anyone who owns a horse understands that this bond can't be broken. There is just something special about winning the love and trust of such a noble creature that can fulfill you in ways you never thought possible. And while those who have never experienced it may claim horses do not show affection, we know better than that. Here are 8 ways horses show their love for us.
#1 – Whinnying when they see you
Does your horse whinny when they see you? It is important to note that there is a difference between a whinny and a neigh. A whinny is a gentle neigh, but if the sound is not so gentle it may be a cry for help. In this case, try to figure out what is troubling your horse and reach out to a vet if you are unsure of the cause.
#2 –Nuzzling you as if to say, “I’m here for you.”
When a horse nuzzles you, you know that you have won their heart. Some people might feel uncomfortable when a horse puts their nose on their shoulder, breathes on them, or licks them, but these are often signs of affection and nothing to be scared or worried about.
#3 – Horse hugs
Horses aren't just for humans to show one another affection. Did you know that horses hug too? Just make sure that you're on the horse's good side before hugging them, and remember that if they start licking you or breathing on you it is often because they appreciate your company.
#4 – Resting their head on your chest as if to say, “I’m glad you're here”
This is one of our favorite signs that a horse loves you. If a horse rests their head on your chest, this typically means that they are comfortable around you and appreciate your company.
#5 –Kisses
Just like giving hugs, horses can give kisses too. Again, there's no need to feel uncomfortable when your equine friend starts kissing, licking, or breathing on you. These are all often signs of affection and they could mean that you have mastered the heart of your horse.
#6 –Trusting you to get them across obstacles
There are times when you are horseback riding when you and your equine buddy will reach an obstacle, whether it is a stream or some other sort of barrier. Horses can get nervous in these situations. If your horse is getting nervous, try out these 7 ways to calm a nervous horse. When your horse truly trusts you, they can overcome their fear of obstacles with a little encouragement. If your horse trusts you to overcome certain obstacles, you have likely won their heart.
#7 –Running to you when you call their name.
Does your horse run to you when you call their name? If so, this can mean that they have affection for you.
#8 – Watching at the gate as you leave - they'll always be there, waiting for you!
It's always so sweet when horses watch you leave. This usually means that they don't want you to go and that they will miss you. Sure, it can be heartbreaking to leave a horse for the day, but just know that they'll be there for you when you return.
How does your horse show you he loves you? Share with us in the comments section!
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Reader Interactions
Comments
Trasy Pollage
He rested his head on my shoulders
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Greta
Same with me, I love him so much I can't even describe this feeling.
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Nattel
My poppy always watch lights come on in the morning & she knickers when I go out I always say goodmorning pretty girl, she lowers her head,I kiss her forehead then she gets hay, even when I get her in from field I call her say poppy come on let's go out an you can see her nostrils going in an out chatting to me, I tell her what we are doing an we still chat all the way round on our ride, love my pops
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Freya
I have 2 horse freinds cupped and weasel when I leave weasel she always stays at the gate and then I go back straight away and she starts kissing me but sometimes she doesn't come to me it's normally because she has hay and then cupped when I'm leaving the door of my house he leaves his friends and gallops and jumps crazy and goes to the entrance of the field standing tall and neighing and so I go up to him and he starts kissing me I hate the night when I can't see them because I need sleep
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Cory chambers
how do I know my horse likes me. He pins his ears at me when I get him and brush him. He bits me sometimes hard.
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Shirley Lillie
Just use a soft brush. Stroke and tickle him on neck, withers, and bum. Avoid harsh brushing on belly and sensitive areas. Play about and find what he likes. Make sure there are no rubs on saddle area, withers or girth.
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CW
My two mares nicker at me and one of them (her name is Charlie) licks me and even rests her head on me. If she is laying down asleep in her field I will often sit down next to her and she will nuzzle me and rest her head on my knee.
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Shirley Lillie
Oh you are so lucky your horse trusts and loves you
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Connie Smith
My horse is sarge. He gives me kisses and rests his head on my should. He runs to me and follows my everywhere I walk. He thinks he is a big dog. He likes grape pop cycles and drinks from a cup. I have had him sense he was 5 months and he will be 24 this year. I love him he is my pet.
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Belina Corritori
I am 11 years old and have been riding for 6 years, kane (my horse) has given me the affection no other horse has. he trusts me going over rivers and also jumping, and when I give him love he can never refuse a good snuggle! he does get mad at me every once and a while for making him work instead of letting him eat hey! but that okay!
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Janice Allen
Jan Allen
I have 2 Tennessee Walkers. One is 33 Chipper and the other is Kid 11.
Our problem is my age I'm 84 and haven't ridden since last year, when Kid took off and I fell off. My younger horse needs to be ridden but not sure I can do that any longer. What are ways I can give Kid a good life. I am not going to sell either. Kid is difficult when I take him out of his stall. He bolts and runs away but only with me. Not sure how to handle this situation. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks.
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m
they do not have to be ridden to be happy
keep looking after them , plenty of forage , love and kindness .Reply
Shirley Lillie
Read Monty Roberts. Play with him, do inhand exercises, go for walkies together
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