The bond between a horse and their rider is one of the most special relationships anyone can have. This partnership was forged a few thousand years ago, and through several centuries of historical teamwork, the evolution of our relationship with horses has evolved substantially. Having a deep connection and understanding with a horse is an indescribable relationship, as anyone privileged enough to have one will tell you, but is also a relationship that takes time and effort to build. Horses are playful, intelligent, and deeply feeling animals, but as historical prey, they are also incredibly anxious and skittish animals that can be slow to trust.
Many people think that bonding with horses primarily comes from horseback riding and the connection that is built from it, but as many equestrians will tell you, the bond starts on the ground. Trust has to be built, and while riding is a factor in the relationship, it is far from the whole picture required to have that deep connection you might be seeking. There are many ways to bond with a horse that don’t involve riding, and here are just a few ideas to get you started.
Grooming
Arguably the most obvious bonding activity outside of riding, but also arguably the most important. Grooming is a very common behavior between horses themselves, it’s just part of being a herd that looks after one another. Taking the time to groom your horse, giving them calm strokes and gentle pets, really brings out a sense of contentment in horses that develops into a sense of trust.
The vast majority of horses love to be groomed, and learning how to do so properly is a great way to understand your horse better. You might discover that they love a curry comb on their backs in just the right spot, or that they’re not so fond of having their ears touched. Every bit of information you can learn about them through grooming is vital in forging a deeper connection, ultimately you both just want to understand each other. Grooming is one of the best activities you can do to bond with your horse, you will often find you’re both more relaxed after their spa treatment and can face the next step in your lesson more level-headed.
Going on Grazing Walks
Who says you have to ride them on the trails? If you have the ability, you can walk them too, and gain a new perspective on your more frequented routes. Walking together doesn’t always have to include being a rider, it can be incredibly beneficial for both you and your horse to walk side by side at a leisurely pace. Maybe there’s a particular bush they’re always interested in that you can take the time to let them explore without the bit in their mouth, or a stream they struggle to cross that you can conquer together. Maybe you just go for a short stroll around the property together, and take your time getting to know each other and your environment in a way you haven’t yet experienced.
It’s well known how important grazing is to a horse’s health, so joining them on a leisurely walk and taking that slow, intentional time together can be a great way to relax and notice more about each other. A new perspective and version of a regular activity that requires you both to stop and smell the roses (perhaps literally?) can help regulate both of your nervous systems, so you’re ready to face whatever comes next.
If mobility is an issue, simply enjoying a new location outdoors together would accomplish the same goal: spending intentional time together outside of riding, slowing down, and just enjoying each other’s company with no added pressure.
Creating Enrichment Activities
Did you know horses love puzzles? Think about the kind of tired you feel after a workout versus a math class; you’re tired after both activities but in different ways, right? Well, for horses it’s the same thing. Sometimes their body is getting plenty of exercise, but their brain isn’t getting the same level of stimulation, which can lead to boredom or even anxiety problems. Creating enrichment activities for your horse is a great way to combat this, and it doesn’t have to take a lot to make something they’ll love.
Some ideas are a big block of ice with treats frozen in for a hot summer’s day, apple bobbing in their water bucket, jolly balls stuffed with hay or other fun grazing materials, pasture toys, or even just a scent buffet of different spices. It doesn’t have to be complicated or grand, just something new for your horse to experience can help you both feel better about the day.
Reading to Your Horse
Who says horses don’t love a good story? Reading to a horse is a fantastic way to spend some intentional time together, especially for horses who are in a stall and especially for kids or anyone who is nervous about public speaking. Horses just love to spend time with their humans, and there is never any judgement or criticism from them, they are simply happy listeners. So if you’re reading a particularly good book or want to test out your debut novel on someone, your horse might be a great place to share it with.
Horses can be very soothed by human voices, and if they’re in a more limited environment this can be a great way to spend some intentional, peaceful time together and deepen that bond between you. They’ll appreciate that you’re there with them, they don’t mind if you tell the same story over and over again.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you bond with a horse without riding?
You can bond with a horse without riding through activities like grooming, walking together, creating enrichment activities, and simply spending calm, intentional time together. These interactions help build trust and understanding, which are essential for a strong relationship.
2. Why is bonding with a horse important?
Bonding with a horse builds trust, improves communication, and creates a safer and more enjoyable experience for both horse and rider. A strong bond helps the horse feel secure and more willing to cooperate in training and daily activities.
3. Do you need to ride a horse to build a connection?
No, riding is not required to build a connection with a horse. Many strong bonds are formed through groundwork, care routines, and time spent together outside of riding.
4. How often should you groom a horse?
Horses can be groomed daily or as needed, depending on their environment and activity level. Regular grooming helps maintain their health and strengthens your bond.
5. What are grazing walks with horses?
Grazing walks involve leading your horse at a relaxed pace while allowing them to stop and graze, creating a calm and enjoyable bonding experience.
