Body Language... Horse Style Trivia Quiz

Answer: smelling her pheromones

This facial expression is called the flehmen response. It helps horses trap pheromones in their nostrils so that they can analyze them. Stallions are, naturally, the most likely to do this. They regularly test whether mares in their vicinity are in estrus ("heat"). Horses also will do this when presented with an unusual odor.

Answer: "driving" her to assert dominance

Driving behavior is where a horse herds another horse to assert their dominance. It is not necessarily a malicious act, and can happen between horses that are very friendly with one another. In the wild, it is commonly seen when stallions bring up the rear of their herd, rounding up any stragglers. A horse owner should never allow their horse to do this to them.

Answer: Yes

Roger is probably just being irritated by flies. The fact that his ears are neutral and eyes are not narrowed shows that his is otherwise relaxed and not angry.

Answer: No

Liza is obviously very frightened. Frightened horses usually choose to run away, but Liza has cornered herself in the pasture. A frightened, cornered horse is dangerous and could kick Cassidy if she approaches.

Answer: any of these

Liza is exhibiting the body language of a horse that has been startled. This often appears just before a horse "spooks" or suddenly runs away. A horse as skittish or "spooky" as Liza is easily startled by anything.

Answer: No

Absolutely not. Windy days are famous for making horses act up. Horses play by running, bucking, rearing and tossing their heads. Horses running from danger typically tuck their tails, pin their ears and lay into a dead sprint.

Answer: roll

Horses love to roll in their pastures after getting a bath. It allows them to put dirt back on their coat which helps prevent sunburn (yes, horses can get sunburns), and repels flies. It also just feels good, like a big back scratch after a long ride.

Answer: Liza is submissive to Cassie

This is a sign of submission. Liza has obviously accepted Cassidy as the lead mare! She shows no signs of being tense, so she is most likely not in a fear state.

Answer: he is marking his territory

Most stallions do this as a way to mark their territory. Geldings who were gelded late often do this as well.

Answer: False

The key is whether or not the ears are pinned. Pinned ears are held flat to the skull and indicate tension or displeasure. If a horse has their ears up but simply turned to the back, they are usually just listening behind themselves.