Although we have many different animals in the world around us, horses are among the most majestic and beautiful animals in we see. I don’t know many people who would dispute that fact. When you see them running across open fields, it can easily take your breath away. On the other hand, if you have the opportunity to get close to horses and actually have one in your life, you quickly realize just how much personality they bring to the table. It’s like a dog, only much larger!
Like any type of animal that gets close to humans, horses have the ability to show affection and to connect with humans on a very personal level. Sometimes, they can even let you know that they love you and when you realize that is the case, it draws you even closer to them. Of course, we all realize that horses don’t actually speak but if we learn how to read their body language and watch them for the right signals, we suddenly realize that they are even more awesome than we ever imagined.
The following are 8 different ways that horses let you know they love you.
1. Nuzzling
Believe it or not, horses don’t always enjoy being rubbed on the nose but they don’t mind rubbing their nose or cheek against you if they love you. Watch for this behavior and the next time you see it, realize that they care for you very much.
2. Coming to see you
Horses are highly intelligent animals that will quickly learn the sound of your voice. They may also learn other sounds that display the fact that you are nearby, including the sound of your car.
If your horse comes running when you called their name with their ears picked up, realize that they are looking to you for guidance and affection.
3. Resting the chin
Have you ever been given a horse hug? Jeanne Grunert talks about this type of behavior that is often seen between horses when they hook their necks together.
This type of behavior shows affection and sometimes, a horse may put their head over your shoulder and try to give you a hug as well.
4. Kissing
Humans often kiss each other to show affection and a dog may give you a good kiss to show affection as well. That is why it shouldn’t surprise you that your horse may kiss you on occasion.
Some horses kiss in order to see if you have a treat but others just do so to show how much they love you.
5. Lap horse
Some horses will stay off to themselves but others are going to want to get close to the one they love. If you happen to be foaling, you may just find that they will do anything to climb up into your lap and snuggle.
Grown-up horses do not often display this type of behavior because they realize they are too big to do so.
6. Nickering
This type of murmuring is a sign that a horse really cares about you. They may make different sounds, such as a whinny to say hello but if it is a soft nicker, it means that they are looking for some quality time.
This affectionate sound should put a smile on your face because it means that they consider you to be their favorite person.
7. Following you
Sometimes, a horse may consider you to be the head of the herd and when that is the case, they will follow you anywhere you go.
Franklin Levinson is a horse behavioral expert and he says that a horse will follow you to keep you safe and to make sure that you are close enough that they don’t lose you.
8. Breathing in your face
This type of behavior would be considered rude among humans but among horses, breathing in the face is known as a sharing breath. They do it to show affection among friends and relatives.
If a horse breathes in your face, it is a sign of affection and respect. It is also a way of saying hello and letting you know that you are a part of the family.