Horses born in the wild and stable-bred foals tend to behave very similarly. The development of social relationships between horses goes hand in hand in the wild and in stables, with quiet attitudes and stable hierarchies. The horse tends to establish a relationship of respect and submission with older family members. There is little difference between males and females, who have similar reactions and completely identical ways of relating.
The puledro tends to be particularly active during the first year of life. It enjoys playing and running freely, and other horses accept this exuberant behaviour calmly and serenely. Clashes between horses are ratherrare, and almost always related to specific situations. It is important to know the course of relationships between one’s horses in order to guide them towards the most positive growth possible, with tranquility and understanding.
The foal’s first year
As we have seen, the foal does not have many problems integrating into the family. Its relationship with its dam is often very positive, especially in the first few months. In the beginning, it is a good idea to give the foal time to get used to it. The mother will tend to voluntarily teach it the basics of behaviour (how to walk, where and what to eat, how to clean itself, etc.).
The foal learns quickly and smoothly, showing enthusiasm. If the foal approaches a larger horse/horse, stretches its head and begins to open and close its mouth showing its teeth, it is expressing its submission. This moment, which is called snapping, is an excellent signal. It means that the foal has surrendered to the superiority of the adult horse and is demonstrating its desire to learn.
If you notice this behaviour on the part of your child, you are sure you are proceeding in the right direction.
Social relationships between horses
Horses tend to establish stable relationships with animals of the same age. The emergence of the positive relationship is shown through proximity during grazing, exchange of food and grooming with each other. In general, there are few moments of agitation that could ruin the relationship between your horses, generating situations that are difficult to manage.
Speaking of foals and mares, the birth is precisely one such moment. The mother about to give birth needs concrete and timely help, so that problems of various kinds can be avoided. It is not always possible for the horse to express its discomfort quickly and clearly, and it can happen ‘too late‘.
Our foaling alarm device, specially developed for pregnant horses, can help you prevent any kind of emergency. C6 EVO is the perfect prevention device, able to warn you in advance when the first contractions begin. The help of this state-of-the-art device – directly connected to your smartphone – will allow you to take the best possible care of your mare and foal. Childbirth will no longer be a problem, and you can relax completely.
