How well can you read horse's? Which is the Alpha!?

How well can you read horse's?? Here is a clip of one horse 'Chevy quarter horse' and one pony 'Darci section A Cob' At the end of the clip I show who the alpha is! See if you can figure out who it is.
steve-young-horsemanship.mysh...

[@robinz2000]

For me no doubt it's Darcy. She moves him all around the pen. I was not raised a horse person. I came across your KZbin channel. It has been a life changer for me. My niece at one time had I think 15 horses. We're down currently to I think 10. I am the caretaker of six of them. I have a 5 month old and a yearling. The rest brood mares. Your videos have been life-saving for me. I'm learning to become a boss horse. You have been invaluable in my education. I truly truly appreciate what you do. I knew very little about horses. I knew to stay away from the head and the back end. Because of you and your videos I'm learning more and more. Thank you ❣️

[@louisegogel7973]

❤❤

[@tanglezest7601]

Even before they get to the food, Darcy is moving Chevy. I don't think I would have seen that so fast, if I had not watched your vids. You have trained your chat well! 🤣

[@louisegogel7973]

👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@caobita]

I could tell from a lot of little details that Darcy is the leader. Have seen a lot of this from the three horses an my friend's farm that I work with, a mare with her two sons, 6 years and 4 years old. The mare is the big boss in that little group. Sometimes when I have one of her sons on the leadrope, she wants to stop him from walking by. But as I earned to be HER boss, I only have to sternly walk backwards towards her, looking at her feet, and she will instantly make space for us. It's always good to know how well using body language works 💖

[@Dianelee999]

Darcy is all about moving Chevy. She’s constantly making him move and retreat. 💜

[@mooniepiereilly8923]

Chevy turning to look at you looks like "Dad, help me!!!"

[@sarahcooper3378]

Without skipping to the end, I would say darcy has the upper hand. The younger horse seems to be trying to encourage play or interaction, but also is showing respect by backing off too. Interesting....

[@dagmargross6064]

I guessed Darcy! I'm very happy to have spotted that correctly! Chevy was trying it on with Darcy in the beginning of the video and had to retreat every time. Yes, and so interesting to watch the driving sequence too! Steve's method is proved here to be so well copied from horse behaviour. Great!

[@bandersnatch2874]

Darci is very much in charge of that pairing. He's got the confidence to move Chevy around even though there's a clear size difference. Have to love the determination and grit of a pony. Wonder if as Chevy gains confidence, the dynamics will change?

[@sandyrobinson1845]

Poor Chevy He is being very respectful to Darcy I’m glad he calmed down But at times he is being a Little Dennis The Menace Hang on Chevy You are such a Beauty So Glad your parents are Steve and Tanya

[@marieparsons9908]

I see it! Darcy is doing the same as what Steve does. How cool. : )

[@shelmstedt]

My mustang mare is the boss. I find it amazing to watch her how she is doing it. We as humans always need to establish leadership. I think it is great to see how these wild horses do it. I learned a lot from her and I am riding since 50 years.

[@LG-qb3wk]

After watching your other videos Steve, the only thing I did notice that Darci was driving Chevy, so I thought you might say it was Darci. Not bad for a 62 yr old who has never been near a horse in her life and only started watching your videos the past couple of weeks. I am quite pleased with myself for the good guess and the fact that I even know what driving means. Thank you for the training. xx

[@jobee9113]

Chevy is looking fantastic, well muscled, I love the way he carries his head at times. Next year will be great when he really starts work with you ❤ Thanks Steve

[@BerylForrest]

Even in the play, Darcy was moving Chevy around, cutting him off & taking his space. Good video, love watching them free to express themselves

[@dianajones8598]

Darcy is alpha leader. I can see the leading and the driving. Merry Christmas 🎁⛄ Steve 🎄🎄 🎄

[@payntpot7623]

Darcy, no question. I could see it from the thumbnail, without even watching the video.

[@lsdev4229]

This was FUN Steve...I thought it was Darcy when he was making Chevy move...then started pinning his ears and nipping at his shoulders. Thanks Steve!🥰🇨🇦Sharon.

[@pol2171]

G' day from Adelaide, Australia. I thought it was Mr Darcy (love his name btw). I don't own horses and haven't ridden for years but found your channel and am enjoying watching your videos. I have two chihuahuas and the female is the top dog, she owns all the toys and puts them together in one place and won't let the smaller male one have any of them. He has learned this so well that he won't have anything to do with them even if she is not in the room. BTW - I really like your name for Nita, as that is my name too. When watching your clinic videos and you are telling her, good job Nita, etc it always reminds me of my teachers when I was a young girl in high school Keep up your great work as you really enjoy it and that comes through on your vids.

[@rebeccacarlson9166]

I guessed it was Darcy when they were "playing. " I don't know why I knew it but you must've taught me well about horse language. Thank you! 🙋🏼‍♀️ Someday I may get a chance to ride again or at least be around horses.

[@jenniferlehman326]

Darcy. You could tell right away with the pinned ears and who was moving who away from things. The water, the hay net, driving Chevy from behind. All Mr. Darcy. He's boss man between those two for sure. Your friend, the Retired Paramedic and Horse Trainer in Ontario, Canada, Jenn 💖 🇨🇦

[@frenzyviz6296]

Well I’m no expert & haven’t been around horses for many years; but I am pleased that I got the answer right even during the play, before the food.

[@tammyspurdle9208]

Thank you Steve for this interesting video, lovely just observing their behaviour.

[@katealison6087]

Lovely video idea. I could tell it was Darcy from the thumbnail. Just subtle body language and then it was even clearer watching the video.

[@pamelaroberts-aue7984]

So Steve, based on your training, clearly it is Darcy because he is the one moving Chevy's feet. Chevy would like to be, but no game. Darcy is not disturbed by Chevy's antics. They remind me of dogs as well. I know a wee dog who is boss and there are 5 in the total collective, but when I throw out a new toy that little dog wins the argument every time and takes the prize and goes back to bed...LOL

[@kkdoc7864]

Darcy is doing a lot of driving and moving Chevy’s feet.

[@timothyhume3741]

I have always noticed that the smaller ponies are more aggressive for the most part. Welsh in particular mostly seem to end up in the boss position. I always cheer for the little ones.

[@ad2040]

Small horse syndrome 😂

[@carolhilton9855]

It’s the same with every animal out there. There has to be a boss. Great example for sure. Thanks Steve.

[@epona9166]

Great video! I love watching horses move each other. Great addition to your library. It's also nice to have something short to look at for a change 😂

[@fields-n-feathers]

Wow! It was amazing to see Darcy treat Chevy exactly the way you talk about! He moved his feet over and over! I'm learning!🧡EAST TENNESSEE

[@tammyspurdle9208]

Chevy looking stunning. ❤

[@louisegogel7973]

By 4:01, I keep thinking Chevy is being moved by little Darcy. Ah, I was seeing correctly! Thank you for this Steve… esp for people like me who have some but definitely not much horse experience.

[@suzyq-zy216]

Chevy’s and Darcy’s faces are ADORABLE! ❤ As for who’s the boss? My advice to Chevy is never try to alpha a welsh pony! They always run the show 😂

[@wendypeckinpaugh1078]

I loved this, like a quiz to see if we have been paying attention to your videos! Aced it lol! 😊 Keep doing you and ty!❤❤❤

[@fion1flatout]

I like that look round (in slo mo) from Chevy.. 'Dad, tell him ,Dad'

[@DAnna639]

Because of you, I watched the feet and selected Darcy. Thank you for your help!

[@Sez166]

Brilliant to observe what you observe. Big thank you!

[@shahannagrey8427]

Darcy is doing the pushing and has her ears pinned .

[@josephfox682]

It has to be Darcy! The way she pushes Chevy around and forces Chevy into Darcy,s world its so interesting. But in fairness, Chevy is only 3. ❤️❤️ your channel from the USA!

[@TTeamFan]

Darcy, no doubt! The little ones are always the bossiest. My daughter's 12hh welshie bossed all the bigger horses around, drove them off their feed bowls, and even coached my 16hh QHX to tread on the breakfences so she could get out of the restricted grazing I had her on!

[@susansteen9252]

Darcy is top dog in this situation! See who is moving who's feet!

[@ginaquincey5905]

It’s always the little grey job!🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@sharonoconnell8653]

Darcy moves forward: Chevy moves backward. When they move forward together, Darcy is driving. Around minute 5:00, the looks in their eyes is hilarious - Chevy seems to be sending out the message, "Hey Pops, what are you going to DO about this bully?" and Darcy seems to be saying, "Who? Me?!" Chevy seems to be more even-tempered but Darcy seems to get quite grumpy. Grumpy, nippy, pushy ... mmm ... I'd have him in a field by himself, too, when I can't keep a close eye on him. Thanks for this interesting clip.

[@JulieMelville]

Darcy reminds me of you, Steve. Near the beginning they were have a head tossing moment and little Darcy kept his head above Chevy, every time. Then Darcy moved Chevy from then on.

[@lineprestkvrn9014]

Darcy has the age, the savvy, the overall experience, and he knows when and how much. Mind over matter, so to speak. 😁

[@tammyspurdle9208]

We do so love little Darcy ❤

[@coolparrots2672]

I absolutely love these kinds of videos, definitely a fave!!! Thank you!!

[@sallyedmondson9275]

Darcy looks more confident ? Chevy has really filled out - he looks great 😍

[@jeannetteparry5587]

I'm not a horse person, though would have liked to have been. But, even while missing some clues at first, I thought Darcy was likely the boss. for example, those nibbles on Chevvy's shoulder looked playful and almost affectionate but... Reminded me of when one cat grooms another. Unless it's mutual, the groomer is usually the "Mother" and in charge. Just watched it again and it's now obvious! Chevvy prances and postures and even threatens to bite Darcy back, but he always gives way.

[@Jacqui9]

Darcy is Alpha Wow 😳 that engine on Chevy is astounding 🤓

[@hazelbickmore4228]

That little lady is definitely the boss!

[@mooniepiereilly8923]

Darcy is running this show!

[@alisonhammond4662]

Darcy never moves his feet..keeps his bubble..just like his human daddy Steve😂

[@PferdeBlog-LisaPeters]

Yes, it is so clear, when you look at them. Little Darcy can move the bigger mare constantly, she starts even the playbiting, circle arround her, stops her with a hindturn, moves not so much as she and goes her way and the other has to move and when not fast enaugh she shakes her mane. When you move the horses, Darcy runs her way, the other pushing back and when big mare crossis her way she stopps her. I work much with horses using this little thinks like tell them where to move, how fast, in wich direction and stopping them. It makes it so much easyer to work with them, when the leading is clear. And in feeding time, its verry clear of corse.

[@Humanfirst528]

Chevvy is having a blast though 😂

[@argentoacres6042]

In addition to Darcy moving Chevy, I noticed several times when Darcy turned her back to Chevy and seemed to ignore his antics. In dogs, this can mean dominance. I'm wondering if it is the same here? Kind of like, "you don't pose a threat because I'm the boss so I can turn my back to you".

[@laveniajohnson2283]

This was so educational! Thank you for your videos. You've helped me so much with my horses, and have given me a new appreciation for Quarter horses! Merry Christmas from the US! In my experience ponies are often the boss hoss. Little buggers lol! I love them!!

[@kellischrepfer9756]

I think it's the little one with the blanket that's in charge.

[@the_chapess]

I think Darcy is alpha UNTIL you came into the pen then they both look to you as alpha.

[@Teifilass]

Darcy for me he’s moving Chevy around more! Wow Chevy is looking amazing.

[@sarahjensen8095]

This was really neat to watch! Thanks so much

[@melanielatham5665]

Definitely Darcy but interestingly my mare throws her head like that on the lunge rein I don’t understand why. 🤔I guess she is showing her disapproval at being exercised. 😅

[@kazzj62]

Darcys' clearly been watching your videos!

[@Max-cd8fm]

Definitely the little horse !! Little one is unconcerned with the actions and reactions of the larger horse

[@shellymoseng2139]

🤣Mr. Darcy is moving Chevys feet, mostly driving, but also some leading. Stinker Chevy’s going to rip his blanket!

[@dorindacontreras1094]

Yes I see Darcy doing ground work! Lol 😂

[@lynnedwards7462]

There's a small, pale one wearing a mac and a bigger sandy one... The Mac seems to be in charge! Never argue with a small, pale Mac-wearing "Teeth and Hooves"! (Is it a power-jacket?)

[@heidipeters7174]

Darcy. Without a shadow of doubt or I’ll eat my hat.. which I don’t want to do cos I just treated myself to a new one! Lol

[@alisontabernor6332]

Darcy is the boss! Chevy is gorgeous 😊

[@Rhonda.D.Wright]

That little nippy, nippy pony is the boss, that’s who. 🤣

[@jodyhuston1516]

It’s Darcy. Look at his ears, his persistence. The way he drove Chevy into the end of the paddock and kept him there, then kept the haynet. Chevy tried to resist him but Darcy quietly, firmly wouldn’t have it. Little pony, big spirit.

[@sue5242]

LOL I couldn’t tell till you pointed it out…once you did yea I get it…but I thought in the beginning both of them got their shots in…very interesting video…ok both Darcy and Nita dominated poor Chevy…who dominates between Nita and Darcy??? My money is on Nita 😊

[@francesacoy4730]

The blanket is taking some hits...😊

[@Fubar2024]

Darcy is boss 😁. Thanks for this. Really neat video!

[@whinnie216]

From what I’ve seen so far Darcy is the one to lead him, take his space. He doesn’t let the other horse move his feet much but he does move Chevys! Wow exactly how you talk about your training! I can see Darcy block Chevys head and think of how you held your hand up on the most recent trailer loading video! Lol btw that video was very informative!

[@whinnie216]

Getting to the feed part now and your explanation! Awesome! Thank you for this!

[@whinnie216]

I’ve definitely been using the leading to driving and the gap exercise with the Iceland that I mentioned in my email!!!

[@holly7869]

"You are mistaken, Mr. Darcy, if you suppose that the mode of your declaration affected me in any other way, than as it spared the concern which I might have felt in refusing you, had you behaved in a more gentlemanlike manner." Elizabeth Bennet. Pride and Prejudice

[@sheilamcinerney4291]

Very interesting.

[@alisoncushing7587]

Very interesting ❤

[@ameliaf784]

Darcie is so cute! I would love to see her in harness.

[@gsbealer]

Darcy is moving Chevy’s feet. He’s pushing him around the ring. Chevy is a youngster and Darcy doesn’t have to try very hard to be the boss.

[@denisedengel-payne1347]

I agree. I think it’s Darcy also. Although the little guy holds his own. Chevy really can take charge.

[@catdog7497]

the one in the blanket is clearly the alpha, the one in charge - showing the palomino what is her space and not his space

[@sjleo799]

Totally Darcy. I guessed before I even watched.

[@pinkladybikermamma3603]

GOOD LESSON

[@jayshelton2765]

The little horse is the Alpha. At least that is the aggressive one. It also leads and drives.Miss Jay

[@lizlilliman3644]

Definitely darcy.obing Chevy and stopping the play when he wants I found it fascinating as had def the alpha mare in the kids pony, if any of the other horses weren't behaving she would be put in with them as she would sort them out. Moved to private yard and she put my Welsh into place, but one spring molly was on the verge of getting llamintus (can't spell it lol) and had to be moved to a small bare pen. I had at that time her, my Welsh and my baby cob. My Welsh took advantage of this and bosses my cob about. He followed her and when we could reintroduce molly my Welsh took charge and didn't back down to her. Before this happened we had to feed molly in a stable (small handful of chaff as the others needed feed ) as she would bully the others off food. After this we could feed all 3 in the field and if Molly approached the other 2 she would be chased off. She soon learnt her place and would go off and graze instead .

[@FredaFlynn2008]

Aww poor Chevy I feel sorry for him but I know it’s normal horse behaviour. Darcy is a little fire cracker. 😄

[@lynno7423]

For me Darcy is the boss, driving Chevy and he also follows

[@kimlersue]

Darcy is no doubt in charge.

[@krabkrabby]

It's like they're trying to establish who's the leader. Sometimes one walks back and the other steps back, sometimes it's the opposite situation. I noticed that the big one tends to guide the little white one when they're not doing anything in particular, but the little one it's aggressive while they eat, and sometimes it drives the other one in staying far. I also noticed that the big one can give the back to the other one to make it step back, but it doesn't really react when the little white one puts its chin on its back. The big one doesn't really fight back when the little one is aggressive, so maybe it's a demonstration of submission. It's like it's trying to be gentle with the little one, but I know that horses are crystal clear with their intentions and body language, so maybe the leader is the little one??

[@Mainecoon_Izzy]

One in the blanket, I guess the pony is that Darcy? Seems to be the one ‘moving’ the palominos feet… Chevy Not sure, though; Chevy doesn’t seem like it, & not taking it very well… he’s rebelling 😂💜✅

[@johnscully1836]

Darcy for sure, holding a middle ground position when he needs to..

[@amyb.6368]

The pony. The bigger one moves away from him (her?) while the pony either doesn't move or approaches the big one.

[@appylover5283]

He maybe little but Darcy’s definitely showing Chevy who boss !and Chevy knows his boundaries not to cross

[@melindaapril3880]

I think Mr. Darcy is in charge. I saw him herding Chevy

[@melissafrench7189]

I think Darcy is Alpha. She's moving his feet. He is also seeking her attention.

[@youn8e]

🤣🤣🤣 great observation...she learns from the #BEST‼️💜

[@MicheleLHarvey]

Darcy. He doing the most moving of Chevy's feet. And doesn't seem concerned to turn his back on Chevy.

[@jenn_2281]

I've always wondered how much is just avoidance though when a horse has a bad attitude. There was a couple of places where Chevy moved first and Darcy followed and Chevy backed Darcy off.

[@sherry3661]

Chevy is absolutely gorgeous, but Darcy does not care one bit!

[@valcurley5010]

The cameraman was the alpha while in the pen!

[@brendah7625]

Darcy is boss,,, Chevy is trying to yank Darcy’s chain! 🤣🤣