“Mine’s the boss.”
“My horse is really low-ranking.”
You often hear horse owners say things like this. But how much truth is there to the idea of fixed hierarchies within a herd? And how much of it is just a human way of thinking rather than genuine equine behaviour?
In this podcast episode, we take a closer look at the concept of herd hierarchy – and what wild horses, paddock groups, and everyday stable life can actually teach us about the true social behaviour of horses.
You’ll discover:
✔️ How social structures in herds of wild horses really work – beyond the idea of alpha and omega
✔️ Why dominant behaviour is often a sign of poor management – such as limited space or insufficient feeding spots
✔️ How misunderstandings arise from the different body language of various breeds
✔️ Why horse groups function more like teams with shared tasks than like rigid military ranks
✔️ And why integration requires time, patience, and sensitivity to individual characters – instead of pressure and quick fixes
Perfect for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of their horse and create a more relaxed atmosphere at the stable.
Curious for more? Find all our podcasts HERE.
- Podcast #6 – Clipping, Blanketing, or Fluffy Coat? How to Keep Your Horse Comfortable in Winter - 9. October 2025
- Podcast #5 – Stress in Horses: How to Recognize It and What Really Helps - 9. October 2025
- Podcast #4 – Hierarchy in Horse Herds: Myth or Reality? - 9. October 2025