How to Talk to Your Horse

There’s no point arguing with a 1,400-pound retired eventing horse—unless you learn to speak its language.

Anthropologists believe horses and humans have shared a close connection for over 10,000 years. An illustration depicting the author with his horse. Biba Kayewich for American Essence

It’s easy to converse with your horse. Watch his ears; listen to his nickers, grumbles, and sighs; pay attention to how he tosses his head; notice the side glances when he’s not looking at you. Stroke his neck, brush his mane, and see what happens.

People and horses have had this ongoing conversation for millennia, right here in the equine homeland of North America. Talking with our horses—we have two—is a coffee-and-doughnuts episode in a day on our farm. Bring a couple biscuits and it’s paradise all around. Cue hugs, kisses, and mutual compliments: “You’re such a big handsome boy!” “It’s all that great hay you bring me.”