The 'Must Know' Basics of Petting Your Horse

People do not give enough thought to why and how to pet or pat a horse. Patting your horse serves a very important function, but it needs consideration and understanding - like all things related to good horsemanship.
In this video, I discuss why and how touch a horse and just importantly I also discuss why not and how not to do it.
I teach Good Horsemanship around the world helping people to understand the emotional and mental component of how horses operate to achieve both a willing partnership and bond and to maximize the performance potential of a horse.
Web Site: www.goodhorsema...
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[@nitefox4411]

4:15 Touch him with your heart and do it in a way that feels good to the horse. Then the horse turns his head and looks at the camera "Are you people hearing this?" And don't do it for to long. Horse turns again "Yeah ,learn what I like and leave me wanting more."

[@LRyan-li9wr]

This man knows what he is talking about. What animal wants to be "slapped" or "smacked" on the side of its head? It doesn't even make sense. Or what animal wants a "vigorous scrubbing", anywhere on its body? I don't know much about horses at all, but I intuitively know that they love a "gentle and loving" touch from a human.

[@Kelly_Ben]

You’ve never seen horses groom each other! They literally scrape each other vigorously with their teeth, even nipping tiny nips. Many horses LOVE full on vigorous scrubs along the neck, finger nails and all. Every horse is different, like people with massage preferences.

[@Rubiastraify]

I don't own a horse, but if I see some at a county fair or something like that, I like to go over and say hello to the horses. I watch their ears and general demeanor to see if they want to be touched, and if they don't, I leave them alone. I never slap a horse's neck. Some people get confused about animals and think that they're like humans, but they interpret touch very differently from us. Especially important to remember around a large animal!

[@virginiamoss7045]

"Some people get confused about animals and think that they're like humans ...." No, they are not confused. They are simply selfish, only concerned about themselves, too self-involved to consider fully or even partially what the animal is all about.

[@genesis3790]

Virginia Moss nah

[@abigailmarston1726]

Virginia Moss no, they do get confused

[@HkFinn83]

Remember, no horse needs petting. They will tolerate it to different degrees but it’s always for us. It’s similar with dogs, people often approach my dogs, baby talking and petting, the dogs HATE it. The people think it’s affection, it’s not their fault, people often live animals but don’t know them.

[@aileen694]

Game Over, hi! I agree with you, and it's great that you consider the horses' body language, without much experience in the horse world :)) Your name symbol is fascinating. I'm trying to decipher whether it's from an ECG test or some fragment of my old Pitman shorthand! Do Tell! 🤔

[@surinderkumar5731]

I get so happy when someone actually understands what the animal is thinking......Loved the explanation 😊

[@Mariska9943]

I don't own horses, never am around horses, but I watched the whole video. What a nice, calm video it is, good knowledge and nice vibe.

[@roughneckriverrat9058]

You should seek some horses out, you might be surprised by how much you enjoy each other. I'm blessed to work with them on a daily basis and they never cease to amaze me.

[@IlGattonero13]

My contact with horses has been minimal, but rewarding -- I am in awe of these animals -- and your video struck a chord with me. Animals do not choose to be domesticated; they are at our mercy. And the least we can do, for horses and other animals we live with, is to be kind and respectful and to take our cues for interaction from them. Thank you, Mr. Jacobs.

[@SocialShires]

I have gotten a very dominant lead mare that was extremely dangerous with food agression and the likes. I was good at understanding her and doing just enough. She made more progress in a few hours than another owner did with hers in weeks.

[@Womanwithblackdog]

I once leased a gelding who hated any form of touching and would pull away from it. At the end of our time together, I went to groom him one last time. I began to cry as I thanked him and said goodbye and he stood perfectly still, looking at me with big soft eyes as I gave him a kiss and hugged him.

[@tashalysepulveda6050]

Valerie Pagendarm a few years ago my mother had a car accident my brother and i stayed with our aunt and they where taking care of an aggresive mare at the time in those days i would go hide in the stabbles to cry one day i fell asleep sitting on top of the back of her stabble wall and after she woke me up by smelling my leg wich scared me i noticed that all she needed was a gentle hand i started spending my whole days with her and i was the only one not gettin bitten or kicked the last time i hugged she hugged me back that mare changed my life

[@peterclouston1485]

The delivery is CV

[@staceepayne8787]

Horses are a gift from The Most High! Thank You Jesus!

[@WindWipper]

@@staceepayne8787 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. REV.19:13-14 Now I will know how to pet the one I am riding on that day.....; )

[@mikeburton1703]

that is touching....he did learn to love you

[@moomoo3031]

Lovely video, you are such a sweetheart, and so's the mare, so patient. I wanted to say that there's a difference between patting/petting and "scritching". A sweaty horse will love to be scritched under his bridle, behind his ears, girth, all those itchy places. But that's not "petting". And you gotta watch out raising foals, cuz they love to be scritched all over which is easy when they are little. And they always want more! And then they get bigger and will wear a person out. Least my last fillys were like that. they turn their heads up and wiggle their lips, it's so funny. I think one thing about petting is to always go with the grain of the hair and let the horse tell you with his ears and switching his tail if he likes it or not. You really made me think about this. subed, happy trails

[@kwgrid]

Pretty much the bottom line is to know your horse and realize that petting is not all about you.

[@virginiamoss7045]

".... petting is not all about you." Truth, so succinctly. Well put.

[@silverkitty2503]

horse will tell you

[@virginiamoss7045]

@@silverkitty2503 - .... if the "you" can or will listen. Most don't.

[@SephirothWaifu]

Well t It's about how you communicate with horses. Their prospective is not ours and how they view their own specises. Petting is the same with hugs. Applying pressure can be seen as good or bad but you have to make it short. Hugging doesn't mean love to them but they can get desensitized from if that they are use to it

[@virginiamoss7045]

@@SephirothWaifu - Why bother with it if the horse has to make effort to ignore it? It's just one more unnecessary thing it has to work on tolerating. Why do this to them? Human selfishness maybe?

[@Meya_eq]

Omg! You are like the queen of no hands! You’re SO good at it! I actually never went no hands yet! The closest thing I got to no hands was a pat in canter!😂

[@graciellastokes7979]

Thank you for this clear and insightful explanation. It is very helpful to have this understanding from the perspective of the horse . In the end, our aim is to send a positive message to the horse with our touch , rather than annoy or irritate him/her. Many thanks once more.

[@JangoPeppers]

The type of videos I look up after beating Red Dead Redemption 2’s story

[@godillysillybilly6024]

Jango Peppers good bOaH

[@jordanluxford4342]

im off work with lumbago

[@Sriram_007]

Yup boah..

[@roughneckriverrat9058]

Maybe you should get the fxck outside and get to know what interesting animals they really are. Or is there an app for that ? Your ancestors are ashamed.

[@soniakb2015]

Roughneck River Rat OML chill

[@mandyrobbins1041]

There was a horse I used to ride when I was younger, barn name of Mikey. He was a Morgan/Connemara grade gelding, and a sweetheart. He LOVED having his neck stroked. Just palm on his neck, thumb along the jugular groove a few times. He would just show I had his attention, and relax into the touch. Such a sweet boy. He was about 25-26 when he moved away to Maine...not sure if he's still alive or not. But he was a darling. Another thing he did when he could tell I had a bad day is "hug" me. He would put his head over my shoulder and pull me to his neck, encouraging me to hug him around his neck and let me cry into his mane.

[@myfriendoretheshepherd6618]

I have an autistic son who doesn’t like being touched. Caring for him helped to to understand this point. So when we got a dog who also HATES to be touched I was able to understand a bit. It is very difficult not to touch my son and dog but they will let me every once in a while if I respect their boundaries. I get what you are saying.

[@SC-de5to]

Thanks for educating people. This also stands true for most animals that if you overstimulate a pet it can turn on you to warn you off. Always treat animals with respect.

[@questioneverything9535]

If you pet a cat too much, it stimulates their hunting instincts and they may bite you.

[@JohnAlexanderBerry]

Very useful tips there Ross. I used to own horses in the early 1960's (northside of Brisbane), but these days I just give somebody else's horse a pat over the fence. Wasn't really aware of ''overpatting'' a horse, so that was a practical piece of advice.

[@cuquitina30]

Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. I just rescued a mini mare from a Kill pen and I’m gathering information because I want the best for her. This kind of information is greatly appreciated.

[@maryannhope8276]

You're kind to rescue her & sure with patience & consistency you'll both find a friendship that's unexplainable. Blessings to all.

[@angeldivine408]

cuquitina30 you’re the reason I still have hopes in humanity. God bless you!

[@juliah.1403]

Love your face calm and respectful of your horses. Wonderful instruction.

[@ShadeTreeStables]

I like the comparison to non huggers, I'll have to use that one, it's a great example. Thanks for sharing!

[@TheEverLovingOutdoors]

What’s hilarious is I’m a non hugger but I want to hug a horse if it’s inviting. I love animals but not people so much.lol I could imagine horses to be the same way.

[@lainieholland]

Wonderful video Ross and thank you for bringing this valuable piece of information to the wider horse community and beginners, like me.

[@katiedotson704]

I have a 7 yr old mini Hinnie that has apparently been treated less than kind. He is the greatest challenge I have ever had as I work to gain his trust. The least mistake on my part seems to set him back to square one. Thank you so much for this video. We will keep on trying to understand each other and make our relationship work. One day at a time.

[@maugre316]

Seeing your comment years later, how did that work out? Well, I hope.

[@katiedotson704]

@@maugre316 Monty is still cautious and reserved but has decided that I have no intention of doing him any great harm. Grooming, scratches, and rubs are still on his terms. Perhaps I should take a hint from Molly, my newest dog. She is convinced that everyone should play with her and persistently harassed the mini until he chased her. After about 6 months of this, the dog and mini are either playing chase or sunbathing together. Or breaking into the basement, and finding a bunch of feed bags that had been folded and stacked in preparation for a ride to the local compacter, and scattering them hither and yon. Everybody needs a partner in crime.

[@lburns7952]

Thank you for spreading some horse knowledge. I am from a big city (NY) so I'm very rarely around horses. I find them to be beautiful animals. I once went to a farm upstate, and there was a man rubbing and patting one of the horses really hard and rough. Like I said, I don't know much about horse behavior, but the animal did not appear to like it. He looked tense, his tail was swishing hard, his nostrils were flared and he didn't blink. Just kept his eyes (opened really wide) on the man. I asked if horses enjoy rough handling. He said "Well, you're city folk so you really don't know anything. These are big, strong and muscular animals. And for them to feel your hands on them, you have to touch them forcefully so they feel it. Stroking them gently will just irritate them". I said "Really? It seems he can feel the tiny flies on his coat. I'm just asking because I'm interested in horses." He said "Well, listen to someone that handles horse for a living. I know what I'm talking about, O.K.". And he walked away. When he thought I was out of ear shot he said to one of the other guys: "She don't know shit about horses. How the hell would she even know Chocolate (the horse) doesn't like something. Asking stupid questions..." He made me feeI very small and stupid for politely asking a question and trying to learn something.

[@Trapezius8oblique]

A very necessary video, thank you It brought tears to my eyes when you said “Goodnight Alice... wherever you are “ Ross you are a wonderful man

[@sarkyfarky8679]

That was the one bit I didn't understand!!

[@cobberas63]

Who is Alice, sorry??

[@mafulai1461]

Dear Ross, thank you. I don't study your library yet, but I always enjoy browsing and enjoy repeat reads such as this one. I always learn something. I have 2 ponies. Oh, dear. People’s most recent comments are disturbing: “too slow, too detailed.” First, it’s a bit rude and unsolicited. More, it indicates the limits of interest and attention that are being fomented by the Click World we are all asking for. Peace.

[@Potato-mu7nu]

Treat a horse how you'd like to be treated, with heartfelt affection and respect.

[@jenniferhall2318]

My gelding finds petting irritating most of the time... It's hard to resist because he has the shiniest golden coat! Then, other times, when he gets an itch and I scratch it, he'll position and move himself depending on where he wants to be scratched. If I move on to another spot that's not quite as good, he paws the ground to tell me 'GO BACK GO BACK!!' xD Or he'll walk behind me and use my back as a scratching post for his face... He's ALWAYS hated hugs though... except after our first prelim test - I got a bit emotional, and he knew it was a hugging moment - he stood good as gold, ears pricked, almost looked as if he was smiling! I think a lot of it depends on the mood. He's quite a character!

[@SocialShires]

the horse that later became mine couldnt have her face touched. She refused everyone, threw people to the ceiling and would hate everyone touching her head. But she looked to me differently than others so I gave her a chance. I was first able to rub face with hers, then slowly she let me get my hands to her face. I spent hours standing with her, and she d come over, sleep over my shoulder. She had choosed me for lack of better term. Even last week, a vet came and as I brought her in, her intern straight up touched her face. It was over. She even refused that the vet she was usually with, to touch her. I had to do everything on the vet`s command. They had disrespected her and it extended to the vet too as they came together!

[@bronnersa6781]

I am so glad I found this video, this is the way I go about things anyway but to heard the way you’ve put it makes so much sense and it will really help me out at work explaining a few things to new people. You are an outstanding horseman

[@taronsingleton9333]

What a great video - this is something I always just "knew" - I mean, if you think about it, people aren't too dissimilar in that, some people love physical affection...others, not so much. Just like people, horses have their own personalities and even preferences. Loved the video - something that is RARELY discussed. Thank you!

[@shirleycooper2048]

Such a GREAT video!!!!! All of what you said is so very simple & TRUE. This is one of those videos that you wish every horse person would watch!! Thank you

[@MajoradeMayhem]

Good video. I've always watched the Olympian Slap and wondered wtf those people were doing, but I assumed they must know better than me. As an all-round animal person (but certainly not a horse expert) I approach horses like most other animals - standing calmly while they come to me, then figuring out if they are in the mood for a bit of affection. I've noticed that the majority of horses are not interested in being stroked and will pull away (which I let them do, of course). For that reason, I've always regarded horses as rather bad pets, since, y'know, they don't actually like being petted. However most of them are definitely in the market for a gentle scratch! They like it when I brush the flies from their eyes, and they angle their heads to let me know where they are itchy. So I'm glad to know I'm doing it right after all!

[@horses7566]

THANK GOD IM NOT THE ONLY ONE THAT SEES ALL THESE PEOPLE SLAPPING THIER HORSES AS THOUGH THEY LIKE IT. COME ON PEOPLE ITS NO DIFFERENT TO A FLIPPING CROP OR WHIP, HOW IS THAT NICE

[@virginiamoss7045]

It's not about "nice" or pain. Why can't people get this?! It's about what it means to the horse, what is being communicated. If the horse is trained to lower its head when it is patted, then that's training and communication. If we just pat, pat, pat, what is it that we want from the horse? It's not clear to the horse and so it just tries to ignore it like it does the flies.

[@onedazinn998]

Good, common sense & sensitivity to animals...this goes for all animals really. I have a feral cat who adopted our homestead...who wants to show affection but can only trust humans for about 10 seconds before shrinking away, so my pats to her are brief & gentle and then off she goes. Never had a horse who wanted to be patted aggressively either...but I guess as a trainer you see all kinds of people who haven't a clue. lol

[@Hy-Brasil]

I feel rather stupid now. Being the sort who hates hugging i should know better. But out of all the trainers and know it alls I've tuned in to, youre the only one who made that observation. Everyone else insists that the horse must be touched ...or desensitized to touch... I recently acquired a half starved pony mare who quivers and shys away at the first motion towards her. She doesnt seem to mind forehead and ear rubs but ABSOLUTELY nothing beyond the ears.

[@patriciagriffiths398]

A very good video Ross. Yes we pet our hoses because it makes us feel good. I'm certainly going to take your advice. Thanking you

[@TheEverLovingOutdoors]

I’m so glad I came across this. I’m picking up my 1 1/2 year old next week. First horse ever and I was wondering if I could possibly spend too much time with him. I could see where spending too much time with him could create a similar scenario to keeping him wanting to be petted. Glad I thought of this and then came across the video from an expert. Thank you!

[@RossJacobs]

I envy you the excitement of your first horse. That's so wonderful. Please email me if you have any questions along the way. My first piece of advice is to find the best professional help you can in your area and steal everything they know and use it to build a relationship with your horse. Best of luck.

[@TheEverLovingOutdoors]

@@RossJacobs thank you! We are truly blessed to have the amount of information we do from professionals at our finger tips.

[@alpakafantasy5134]

Thank you Ross, I thought this way about alpacas before because most of them don't like to be touched/petted. It's all about awareness and respect. Great video!

[@Animal_lover123-x7w]

I love the way that your horse looks to the camera, as if to say thank you mate. I get what you are trying to say. Beautifully said 👏👏👏👏

[@CATherine001]

Thank you for reaffirming what I naturally knew! Sometimes a lite touch to simply let the horse know your whereabouts especially going behind to groom.

[@daemon1143]

Much appreciated. I have three horses who enjoy being scratched in a manner that is analogous to the way they groom each other. One of these seeks brief gentle contact at every meeting. However, I have a fourth horse which we've just purchased, and which is extremely adverse to being touched and become immediately mildly agitated, even though she unfailingly approaches to be caught and has nigh on perfect ground manners and halter skills. Until now, I'd been thinking of how I might encourage the same degree of affectionate response in her, that the others demonstrate. Now I'm thinking that I should leave her alone in this respect and give her the space she obviously prefers. Thanks for making the video.

[@maryannhope8276]

Sure it'll happen! Gods Speed. peace. Lucky you!!

[@virginiamoss7045]

"... affectionate response in her ...." Good to read that you are respecting her individuality; however, affection is a human construct. Why do you seek affection from a horse? How do you know any horse response is affection? You don't. They may hope to get some itch scratched, a bit of food or get let out of a stall. The only thing I see horses do is hang out with you when there are no other horses around to herd up with. It's not about affection!

[@marciaj2615]

Thank you Ross for this video. I think I'm going to like your channel. I started volunteering at an equine therapeutic center with 12 beautiful therapy horses. I want to understand their body language and how to interact without overwhelming them.

[@lauraalbertson7821]

Thank you Ross some really good ideas. I spend a lot of time rubbing my Horse . Now He will fallow me without a Lead Rope . It took over a month every day rubbing His favorite spots to be able to Rub his back end . I haven’t rubbed His back legs yet. Little Bear is a Gypsy Vanner Cross Paint . 7 months old . After watching your video, I will be mindful of making sure I don’t do it too long each time . Like you said , have them want more . 💜🐴 💜 Laura and Bear 🇺🇸 California

[@danielthomas6739]

The dominant horse breaks off the mutual grooming session first. This what he is saying in different way. This one thing defines whether you or the horse is the dominant one in the partnership.

[@virginiamoss7045]

Finally, a commenter who gets it! The mutual grooming is not about scratching an itch. It's horse language to say, "Are we good here now?" They re-establish their hierarchy. They are not being friends or loving on one another.

[@SocialShires]

@@virginiamoss7045 I beg to differ. When it comes to doing it with a human, all bets are off. If you scritch a horse in my herd, they move so your hand gets to the right spot then start enjoying it , clear as day in there lips and whole head behavior. They do not groom me back unless I ask. I raised a colt recently and gave it more permission. And he will come and lips at ankles and wrists. Whatever one he touches means he want this one scritched otherwise he wont enjoy it, he will stay still. Scritch the corresponding feltock and he start waving his lips and head about. They learnt that humans are helpful and will ask for those scritches. My mare can also motions with her head and rear hooves to tell me to rub her belly. They are all shires and 1 belgian mix.

[@falconbritt5461]

Ross, I really appreciate your information so much, it is top notch!! As a mentor teacher of English, I will offer a small suggestion, which of course you may take or leave. You might speed up your presentation. Research shows that people are more able to pay attention and to remember information which is presented faster than normal - not slower. In fact, you could talk nearly twice as fast and people would find it easier to track as well as recall. Your pacing currently is slower than normal, just the opposite of what's educationally optimal. Ploddingly slow info is apparently harder for people to absorb neurologically, especially now that television is blasting them with lots of fast stimulation. Plus people are more likely to watch a video of say 5 minutes rather than 9 minutes.Your material is excellent, just a suggestion. You will get more subscribers if you pick up the pace.

[@nancymcritchie9505]

myself, I love the pace of the talking. :) Thanks Ross for fabulous info!

[@Managable_Mayhem]

One of the most important lessons people should learn when they start with horses. In my opinion. The only thing I ever did as a child was gently rub their nose between/slightly above the nostrils (unless they kept wiggling with the lips, it was easy to figure out it didn't like that then) OR carefully slide my hand over their bridge of the nose up to the forehead and see if it didn't pull away, then I would massage and gently scratch the fur right at the start of their mane. Most horses I've dealt with liked the last method. Many relaxed even and I had my fair share of touchy-feely time. Win-Win, really. It's sad people don't pay attention. Then again, most people think yanking a piece of metal on gums and teeth is never ever painful, whips cannot be felt unless you put full force into your swing and the bumps from sharp/pointy spurrs are 'learning bumps' and totally a-okay. Makes me wonder why people don't need to absolve training to own certain pets...

[@mirceasavu9116]

Your Excellency, THANK You with Admiration, Respect and GRATITUDE! God Bless You and ALL OF Yours, INCLUDING ALICE

[@outstandinganime1790]

Thank you so much for the advice I learnt more about relationships and not just with the horses but with humans as well🥰 . I did want to know how to touch the horse that showed it how much I loved it I never thought that a horse may not like so much affection and so could be uncomfortable That brown one close by is a sweet little baba he lets u touch him the wrong way and forgives quickly That brown horse is a sweet baba he forgives u for touching him rough for this tutorial

[@feefee6889]

It’s surprising how many people can’t read their horses body language, That’s all this is. Does your horse pin it’s ears, move away, nip aggressively etc, he probably doesn’t enjoy it. This is a good video to remind ppl of body language and how important it is.

[@mariannedippenaar8488]

Very good advice. Thanks

[@madilynn9773]

His voice is so calming. Even the horse likes it..☺️

[@dinganddoo2]

Great information. I always taught my students to never 'slap' the lesson mounts, over rub/scratch them or let the horses freely rub on the students. Besides bad manners, rubbing and pushing the kids around could be downright dangerous. When mounted, I always had them lightly run an inside hand up the side of the crest and back while saying, "Good boy/girl.". That was it.

[@lindabowman2139]

l have a horse who gets fed up while being trimmed/shod, to calm her l use my thumb and first fingers just below each eye and slightly to the middle of her face and massage very gently with both fingers in a circular movement and her eyes begin to close and she stands perfectly, works on rescued polo pony too to calm and reassure her, same movement works just above her eyes too

[@Mjaiqhwai]

Wait can you demonstrate it through a video?

[@larabrown930]

First ever video I have watched on your channel, you have a new subscriber!

[@Nobjan]

Me too.🐴

[@elakemec6416]

hey Ross . ı really wanna pet a horse . but ı have no any experiense .you are so lucky .you knew everything about horse .

[@Newcards4u]

I just started soft, and after the horse got to know me, I could intensify what I did and I ended up with a horse that loved to have the inside of her ears brushed, that would lower her head so you could really groom around the ears, take away sweat and dirt, making sure it wouldn't be anything making her sore when the bridle was on.. It was the same all around her body, she didn't just tolerate it, she enjoyed it. I believe a horse that feels wonderful, will be completely different to handle or ride, than a horse that feels dirty.. That iches all over from sweat and dust, that has a tangled tail that are heavy and hurts when trying to swat flies away. Treat the horse the way you would like to be treated..

[@ellieelizabeth5627]

I love this video and not enough is said about the subject of petting a horse. "Always leave them wanting more", love that too. Every horse is different just like every person is different. Personally, I don't like to be touched and if someone grabs my arm etc., even if they're just joking around, I can't stand it. So why would a horse be any different? I have found, through trial & error, that it depends on my horse's state of mind. If he comes to me when I call him in the field I'll very, very lightly stroke all over his face. He loves it. His eyes half close and he, um, you know......drops. 😂 Most horses have their sweet spot. Thank you for your video. You must be very busy lately because I haven't got a video from you in some time and I am subscribed, so I was happy to see it was from you when KZbin notified me. Take care and keep the vids coming!

[@virginiamoss7045]

"So why would a horse be any different?" While I very much agree with the rest of your post, this rhetorical statement is the whole problem with many people's approach to horses today. The answer is not your assumed, "They certainly wouldn't." The answer is because they are an entirely different species of animal from human beings. Just because you don't like being touched (me, too) in no way means any other person or animal is the same. Horses would be far better off if all people would stop putting human emotions onto them and learn their language instead. You may love your horse, but don't express that to the horse; express it to other people or keep it to yourself. The horse does not care at all.

[@ellieelizabeth5627]

Virginia Moss saying "why would a horse be different?" was a dumb choice of words, I'll admit that. However, I don't put human emotions on to my horse. I realize they're not dogs or cats. They are prey animals and that's another whole new ball of wax when it comes to relating with them. When he's in the mood (his body language will tell me) I will give that extra soft touch or back massage. And although I love him I realize that it's the touch or massage that he is enjoying. He's not translating the touch as "oh boy, she loves me" because I don't think horses think like that. I just wanted to make sure we are (somewhat) on the same page. "A horse can be your best friend, companion and partner. But he can NEVER be, and more importantly, does not WANT to be your pet." I put those words in quotes because it is from a great book that I read from a great man. And I agree with him, wholeheartedly. Sorry for the misunderstanding and I wish you happy trails. 😊

[@virginiamoss7045]

Ellie: Most of my reply was directed at other people, not you. You are clearly relating to your horse properly; that's a lucky equine. However, I would ask how you know for sure that your horse is "enjoying" your massage. What are the objective indications that support that assumption? When we scratch a horse's itch he/she will indicate a positive response by making that place more available to us; we can, therefore, infer that the horse is "enjoying" the action. What tells you that your horse is "enjoying" a massage? And, again, not just for you but for all readers here, your great man quote references "friend". I would agree on the companion and partner, but friendship involves a complex emotional back and forth between human participants that cannot be achieved with any animal, even a dog (as amazing as they are). Our emotionality with animals is of our own creation; it is one way only. Sure, we can revel in feelings of love and appreciation for them to the greatest extent (and we should), but don't expect the animal to be a part of that, only the subject of it. Many happy trails to you as well. If only every horse owner were like you horses would be so very much better off.

[@ellieelizabeth5627]

Virginia Moss oh no! I didn't think you were being nasty, dear. Believe me, I have conversed with enough people on KZbin to know nasty when I see it. Thank you for the kind words. As to your question about how I know my horse enjoys a massage from me. I would have to say.....his body language. He takes deep breaths, lowers his head, closes his eyes, stays as still as a statue and his sheath drops. One time I could hear him snore. The whole barn was laughing at that. Maybe I'm wrong, but all of those things I described tell me he is happy/content at the moment. As for friends, maybe you are right and it's a one way street, but I don't care. I'll always love him. 😄

[@divyaarzaclothing811]

@@virginiamoss7045 dear moss, you can have a bond with some animal kinds eg my dog cherry, he is emotionally attached to ma family, when my mom cries(a fight wid dad happens at every home) watches everything n he too cries and does not even wag his tail to dad untill a week time forget about my dad calling him (hahaha), but he fine with all except dad for a week. extra care about mom oh god extra cuteness of cherry , it all depends how you make ur relation with them but they(dogs n all animals) differ in different ways

[@pegleg2959]

That horse is such a beautiful colour. Beautiful

[@ibykhalil-1846]

I’m watching this before my first time horse riding so my horse doesn’t go ferrari logo on my ass

[@mayssasabbegh2016]

So how did it go😂

[@ibykhalil-1846]

@@mayssasabbegh2016 Just as i expected, my horse threw me around and was chewing on metal because he had a fucking tooth infection. Funniest and last experience ever😂😂😂😂

[@eviciousthetalon8608]

I've always used a neck-pat (the "Olympic slap") to get a distracted horse's attention when I'm riding. I've always petted using long, slow strokes, or scritched along various known-to-be-itchy spots when I wanted to show affection. My reasoning for separating it like that has always been "I don't find being clapped on the shoulder 'pleasant' or 'enjoyable' - why would a horse?" On the other hand, a nice massage is comprised of long, slow motions; and a good back scratch is always appreciated. It just seems like common sense, to me....

[@Ganpignanus]

good advice. i'm happy to say i pat my horse correctly. as a form of affection and also when he is unsure about something to reassure him when riding. then if he does something really well, as a thank you.

[@RickyJr46]

Such excellent wisdom here. An elderly couple in town have an older mare who I'll stop to visit along the fence. Her owners showed me the sort of back rubs Scarlett likes, and sure enough she will stand along the fenceline in a way that I can reach her back- she will even turn around to present the other side! Quite often she will back right up to the fence and lift her tail a bit...is that also a request? I'm not sure what she is communicating.

[@RossJacobs]

She is showing you where she is itching (top and sides of the tail) and wants a scratch.

[@RickyJr46]

Thank you sir!

[@heathermaich8966]

What a fantastic video, so glad I found it on youtube!

[@lisatoney2867]

I think everyone in the world should watch this video!!!!

[@peterlovett5841]

I am always amazed at how many so-called expert horse-people (think Olympians, jockeys, handlers - in fact the more professional the more ignorant they are generally) slap their horse at the conclusion of a race, event, ride etc. I suspect it comes from ignorance and a failure to learn no matter how much time is spent around horses. For pity's sake, if a horse slaps another horse its with their hooves and the result is not pretty and its certainly not done by way of a thank-you! When a horse grooms another it is by gently using their teeth in a scritching (only word I can think to describe it at the moment) movement. To replicate it use your hand and close the fingers as though gently pinching the horse's skin.

[@JavierBonillaC]

Peter Lovett Oh you are so wrong' it depends on the horse. I have horses that don't like it, I've got others that beg for it. I have a horse that only likes you to pass your hand over each ear as if cleaning them. He loves it even when most horses hate having their ears pulled. Mr. Jacobs is a very good rider and a knowledgeable person. I guess he's just done too many videos and thus ha now jumped to the unimportant.

[@peterlovett5841]

Javier Bonilla Its the slapping on the neck or body that I am talking about, not the grooming or rubbing that also happens. I suggest that if you have a heart-rate monitor fitted you would see the heat-rate leap up every time you hit the horse.

[@ratherbwithhorses]

If you were actually close to see it in person , you would see many that look like slaps are really not open handed , the horses like the 3 little pats as a sign to relax . It still disappoints me how people vilify others in the horse world. This does nothing good for horses.

[@peterlovett5841]

I have been close and seen it first hand. They are not little pats by any stroke of the imagination. I am more concerned about the horse than what other people think. I suggest you watch this video again.

[@ratherbwithhorses]

Peter Lovett the standing and relaxed horse is different than a horse coming down from high competition. Just sad to see such attacking of other horse people.

[@Frostedd_Everglades]

Just finished all of the Witcher games and read some of the books, and the love Geralt has for his horse without showing it is adorable! (Especially in the Netflix series. Sad how that turned out though.) I had the sudden crave of watching horse petting after finishing TW3

[@mikelosban8457]

I love this guy and can't wait to try out his ideas with my mare.

[@kathywilliams5732]

Thank you again for this

[@BornAgainFarmGirl]

Thank you so much for the wisdom !!!!!!!

[@jeanedevries1]

Spot on, Mr. Jacobs.

[@mikewhiskey4467]

Pet with your heart in your hand., I love that. Ive got a mare that has had some people problems. You couldn’t catch her unless you trapped her and then spend the next hour trying to get a halter on her. Hard eyed. I took a while but now I cant run her off and she waffles while doing ground work the whole time and has the softest big doe eyes. Its amazing how forgiving they can be. Not saying Im all that, Im saying how awesome she is to give me a chance.

[@matthiasweiss1144]

Ha, ha...when the itching is strong, the itching is strong! I've met several horses who would rub their faces against the knuckles of my (stationary) fists, while I braced myself to not be pushed back. When they had enough, they released the pressure themselves. When I meet a new horse, I let it sniff my hand, then I gently stroke the muzzle with the back of my curled index finger - once. Then I see if the horse sticks out its nose to me for more interaction or does not show any further interest.

[@leealexander3507]

One of my pet peeves is people patting my horse. He hates it. Sometimes he wants petted or scratched, sometimes not. He wants petted or scratched when and how he wants it. Otherwise just give him a cookie or a bit of grass. If he doesn't trust you or like you don't touch him. You could get struck or bitten if he is unable to leave.

[@leealexander3507]

Tabourba I have no time for that. I have to move them quickly so they won't get struck. He's not fond of being slapped.

[@SC-de5to]

I just don't understand why people don't have the decency to ask first if it's ok to stroke or touch somebody's horse. I always say 'don't touch him as he can bite strangers'...it always stops people in their tracks

[@leealexander3507]

@@SC-de5to It's hard to resist touching an animal, especially a beautiful one. I understand that. People do it with dogs too and frequently fail to see the body language of the horse or dog that clearly says "no". No one, including a horse, should have to be touched by a stranger unless they choose to be touched.

[@leealexander3507]

@@SC-de5to A woman recently went up and gave my horse a bid hug around his chest and neck. She never even notice that his head suddenly went up or that he looked very alarmed, but he did decide she probably wasn't dangerous and tolerated her. He is not inclined to allow a stranger to take such liberties usually, but he had the option to leave so he allowed it.

[@gravityworks777]

Lee Alexander b

[@andreasbracke1997]

Love the video. If you listen to what the horse likes, you can find out the "correct way" to say thanks to him. And, if the touching is for the horse and not only for me, sometimes he likes beeing crawled, and ona nother day ho doesnt. So I have to know him and so I can tell him thanx with crawling or petting or a slice of apple instead.

[@OxfyMags]

Great video! very insightful. I wish every rider realised that they have to work with the horse, not force the horse to work for them. I have found that it is also helpful to observe how the animals interact with each other. Not just horses, but any animals at all. I try rubbing the withers the way I see the mummy horses do it to their foals, or how the male suitors show their affection for the potential mates,, the ways they do it and the way the other party reciprocate. If a stallion woos a mare by rubbing on certain parts of her body and she reacts with a negative effect, I’ll take notes and won’t do that to her. I’m no expert and this comes from experience only, but I still think it rings true.

[@PhyllisGlassup2TheBrim]

Your comment about humans and hugging was good. As an autistic person I really hate to be touched and a hug would have me very very stressed. Great video.

[@anthonygambitta6220]

My Shetland pony doesn't really like to be petted, but is sweet tempered. My mini horse loves being petted all day long. Two different personalities.

[@princessdolly1169]

My family owns 5 horses and we are very good on how we handle them, if I do pet my pony between the eyes I do it gently and calmly and I find it helps with her nerves as she had a rough upbringing before we bought her.

[@pariahmouse7794]

I am NOT a hugger myself, and really dislike being hugged or touched by anyone I am not intimate with, haha- people mean well when they hug, but I immediately stiffen and pull back even if it is someone i really care about- I just don't do hugs! I can absolutely understand that in horses, though I must admit I am guilty of being overly touchy, especially when I first started working with them, but I am slowly learning personalities at my barn, and I try hard to touch with purpose and kind intention! Pats make ME cringe, and most of the horses, too- we have lots of volunteers for our therapy program, and they have varying degrees of horse experience, they almost ALL pat, it drives me crazy! I wish I was brave enough to educate them, haha, I just try to show them by doing it differently myself... I hope Alice is well!

[@beavadakkoot]

This is so good! I always see people rubbing so hard or clapping and I always think, that poor horse, I would not like to be hit like that...

[@Stusy7]

Sir you really have a beautiful horse 🐎

[@leealexander3507]

Thanks for telling people how to properly pet a horse. I don't know even one horse who enjoys being slapped on the neck. Many dogs like to be patted so please pat them instead.

[@leealexander3507]

Tabourba Some large dogs really do love to be patted although I'm not especially willing to pat them.

[@watchgoose]

Dogs don't have hands they can manipulate to "pat". THink about it. Yet my cats have (for years) used their paws to tap me on the face gently.

[@kinseybarnard]

Most dog DO NOT like to be patted. Would you like it if someone came up and patted you on the head?

[@leealexander3507]

Walker Never on the head, but I've known several large dogs who enjoyed being patted on the butt. Usually when shedding winter coats. Possibly it feels good when they itch. Being far more accustomed to horses, I really don't understand why some dogs like it and actively attempt to get patted by their humans. I've never known a horse who likes it and my stallion responds quite aggressively and extremely quickly although it's perfectly safe for any small child to run up to him and start loving on him.

[@kinseybarnard]

I've known many dogs, mine included, that like to have their butts scratched but not patted. I try to treat all my four legged friends as I wish to be treated myself. I don't like to be patted (or condescended to) and I don't like to have my personal space invaded by strangers.

[@rubytuesday2913]

Thanks Ross. Got it.!👍

[@TimTheEnchanter0]

I wish my riding instructor would teach at this level. She had me on the horse quickly without me getting to know the horse.

[@melissapriddy9778]

Yes, it depends on the horse & the situation. I have had horses that didn’t like being touched even in gentle slow strokes, to a very bold pushy horse that was very unique & did actually love “dog pats” on his neck/shoulder.

[@silverstorm6973]

The Clean their house demonstration made my day lol

[@michaelhussey440]

I have horses on my land and I have never been a fan of them because I was brought up with cattle and sheep and dont understand their ways . One in particular last winter was baring her teeth when I attempted to interact with her and generally pushing in to my space , intimidatingly. 9 m0nths on we ae getting on better and I can nose rub with her after feeding her treats and she makes that hello noise they make when they are pleased to see you. Theres lots to learn about our animal brethren.

[@publicenemy7777]

Nice video. Excellent explanation

[@No1forWebsiteDesign]

Great video ... basically not 'pushing your energy' on to them ... xxx

[@nancycandela2029]

love watching your videos. I have learned allot. Beat regards, Nancy

[@janedmunds4218]

Thank you

[@nitetrane98]

I always enjoy listening to humans who somehow know what an animal is really thinking.

[@CelestialWolf23]

nitetrane98 it is possible. If you have a natural gift you can sense the shift in your horse’s mood or demeanour. It’s a very hard thing to describe. I’ve built bonds with horses 80% treat free trust with me and horses this way

[@Emrys-]

YOU DONE GOOD GURL

[@em_8679]

So helpful👍🏼 Thank you for this!🐴

[@wildtatz]

Best advice ever .. no bs . Simple and logic rules .! It would work on me .. lol

[@metalkingtohorses]

good advice, my sweet old mare loved me to snuggle her so much and once I thought she got into poison ivy so I didn't touch her for a week and her feelings were hurt and she wasn't happy, I usually smush and love on my horses when they seem to ask me for it they have their aloof days too, they do ask when they want a good groom. ( I never liked the after the jump neck slaps, I don't think any horse like slaps , a gentle pat maybe but nice soft strokes on the shoulder I think they like best and a good rump scratchen)

[@BYTube86]

Well said ❤️

[@ElBeeEss]

So, essentially, all we need to remember is: animals are like humans when it comes to being touched - we're ALL different. And none of us can bear being tickled or stroked until our nerve endings go numb. Quite a few years ago, I did a day as an extra (aka a supporting artist) for a TV drama. The 2nd AD briefed us all that there would be two police horses on set and that we had to remember they were working animals here to do a job and that we weren't to try to pet them. But as soon as we got on set, what happened? A bunch of people crowded round the horses and started petting them. What is it they say? You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink. Eye roll.

[@ShikadaiNara10]

at my barn after a lesson they always tell us to like softly pat on the horses neck never know that they didnt like it thanks for covering this

[@annettefournier9655]

Always leave them wanting more and they are all different individuals. No truer words were ever spoken.

[@shibibi1]

my girl isn't big on being touched. she allows it, but it's just not something she enjoys, she'd rather just be standing in close proximity maybe brushing against you occasionally. so for her i don't "pet" but do the occasional gentle bump as i move by, or gently lean on her for not even a second and continue what we were doing. her respect for people since I've discouraged people petting her, has increased significantly

[@paigemontague4022]

Very informative video that got me thinking. Thank you!