The friendship between humans and horses spans thousands of years. But it's not just "master — animal." It's a partnership where each gives their soul. Horses sense a person's mood, remember injuries, and know how to forgive. We tell you about how friendship is born, how to recognize it, and how to maintain it.

How Horses Choose a Person

Horses don't like everyone. They may ignore or fear some, while others they are drawn to. How do they choose? By smell (horses can differentiate pheromones of fear/stress). By voice (a calm low voice attracts, a scream repels). By body language (confident, smooth movements soothe, sharp ones scare). By attitude (if a person brings treats, cleans, doesn't hit). In a herd, horses may choose "their" person and ignore the rest.

Example: on a stable, one horse may only approach a specific stablehand, not even turning its head towards others.

Signs of Friendship

The horse approaches you in the paddock (on its own, not for treats). Lays its head on your shoulder, rubs its nose. Follows you without a reason. Joys when it sees you ( neighs, runs). Allows you to touch its sensitive areas (belly, ears). Protects you from other horses (chases them away). Misses you when you leave (stands at the gate).

Important: don't confuse politeness with friendship. A horse may be trained not to bite or fight, but this doesn't mean it loves you.

What Friendship with a Horse Gives a Person

Anti-stress: communication with a horse reduces cortisol, increases oxytocin. Physical activity (cleaning, hay, riding) — keeps you in shape. Self-confidence (managing a 500-kilogram animal). Teaches responsibility (you can't leave a horse hungry). Gives unconditional acceptance (horses don't criticize). Therapy for people with autism, PTSD. Horses won't betray you (unlike people).

It is known that horses have saved people from depression and suicide.

How to Strengthen Friendship

Spend time not only in the saddle. Clean, brush, talk. Feed with your hand apples, carrots (but don't overfeed). Study its body language (ears pinned back — angry, leg scratching — nervous). Don't punish physically. Be predictable (horses like a routine). Respect its personal space (don't barge into the stall when it's eating).

Friendship is built over years. But it's worth it.

The friendship between humans and horses is not a romantic myth. It's daily work and joy. If you want a friend who won't betray you, understand the horse. And it will respond.

Permanent link to this publication: