The sophisticated herd relationship of horses originates from the instinctive need for survival. Because of their prey/predator relationship, horses learned there was safety in numbers. Every horse is a unique individual, yet the ability to blend in with the herd is of utmost importance. Horses have become genetically predisposed to this blending. This is one of the reasons they immediately begin to establish a pecking order upon meeting a new horse. One horse will ultimately become the leader. Horses will also test humans. You become a herd of two when you are with your horse. It is crucial when working with your horse that you learn to think like a horse. We must change our own behavior from that of predator to that of prey.
Leader of the HerdThe principles of herd instinct, behavior and order are important to understand because a horse will naturally assume the humans he comes in contact with will either have a place in the herd or be a potential threat. If you watch a herd of horses, you will notice all of the horses give way to the leader. This is the position we want to assume when we are with our horse.
The Role of the Alpha
The Alpha or lead horse makes the decisions as to where the herd goes. The leader also decides how fast they go, and who gets to do what when they get there. Consider this, if a herd of horses was being attacked by a pack of wolves and the horses had to reach a quick decision by consensus, the odds would be in favor of the wolf pack. So when a horse in a herd spooks and runs, they all take off without hesitation. Every horse in the herd knows its place. Once the pecking order is established, the herd gets along peacefully.
A Good Leader
However, it is very normal and natural for every horse to periodically challenge others for its place in the herd. This insures that the herd is led by the most worthy leader at all times. Most horses don’t actually want the alpha position. They would rather follow another horse. Horses want someone to lead but the leader must be worthy. If that horse is not worthy they will take over. A good leader is fair, consistent and effective. Most lead horses are assertive but not overly aggressive, dominant but not mean.
In order to create a relationship that is enjoyable and safe, we must establish and maintain our position as the alpha. We must be effective and benevolent leaders. We want to build our relationship with our horse based on trust, respect and compassion.
