The Sounds Horses Make

Horses Make Sounds Too!

Horses are often seen as quiet animals, but anyone who spends time around them knows they can be quite vocal. While not as noisy as dogs or birds, horses use a variety of sounds to express themselves, communicate with one another, and interact with humans. Understanding what these vocalizations mean can deepen our relationships with them and help us respond more sensitively to their emotional and physical needs.

Neighs and Whinnies: Long-Distance Calls

The most iconic horse sound is the neigh or whinny. These are loud, far-carrying vocalizations that serve a social function. Horses often whinny when they are separated from their herd or human companions, expressing a mixture of anxiety and hope for reunion. It’s a way of saying, “Where are you?” or “I’m over here!” Horses recognize each other’s voices and will often respond with their own whinny when they hear a familiar horse calling. The tone and pitch of a whinny can vary depending on the horse’s emotional state, higher pitches may indicate stress or excitement, while lower ones may be more relaxed.

Nicker: A Gentle Greeting

Nickering is a softer, lower-pitched sound, usually made with the mouth closed. It’s often heard during positive interactions, when a horse sees a familiar human approaching, when a mare greets her foal, or when a horse anticipates food or turnout. A nicker is essentially a friendly “hello” and is one of the most heartwarming sounds a horse can make, it’s definitely my favourite. It signals that they are feeling safe, content, and pleased with what’s happening.

Snort: Alert or Curious

The snort is a quick exhale through the nostrils and is often associated with alertness or curiosity. When horses snort, they may be processing something new or uncertain in their environment. It’s a way of clearing the airways, but it also serves a communicative purpose, signalling to others to pay attention. In a relaxed setting, repeated snorting can even be a sign of comfort and enjoyment, like during play or after a release of tension. Context is key here, as snorts can mean very different things depending on the body language that accompanies them.

Blow: A Warning or an Expression of Tension

Blowing is a more forceful, prolonged exhale through the nostrils and is often used when horses are anxious or perceive a threat. You might hear it when a horse is spooked or about to bolt. It can also indicate frustration or the need for more space. A blow often accompanies other signs of tension, raised head, wide eyes, stiff body. It’s their way of saying, “Something’s not right,” and it’s wise to take this sound seriously and assess the environment or interaction.

Squeal: Protesting Boundaries

Squealing is usually associated with dominance, irritation, or boundary setting. It’s most often heard during social interactions between horses, especially when one invades another’s personal space or during initial introductions. Mares tend to squeal more than geldings or stallions, particularly during hormonal cycles, but all horses can and do squeal. If a horse squeals when being saddled, groomed, or asked to move, they might be protesting discomfort or confusion. Listening to this can help identify sources of tension or resistance.

Groan or Grunt: Discomfort or Effort

Horses may groan when lying down, stretching, or working hard. A soft grunt during a strenuous effort, such as jumping or heavy exertion, can be normal. However, repeated or sudden groaning might signal discomfort, soreness, or even pain. It’s important to observe the context, if groaning becomes more frequent, or is paired with changes in behaviour, it’s worth consulting a vet or bodyworker.

Listening Deepens the Bond

The more we attune ourselves to the sounds horses make, the more we can understand what they’re experiencing and how they feel. Their voices, subtle or bold, are windows into their emotional world. By listening not just with our ears, but with our presence and attention, we show respect for their communication and strengthen the partnership we share.

Suzy Maloney B.Eq.Sc.Dip.Couns.

Happy Horses Bitless

Considerate Horsemanship

Ph: 0401 249 263

Email: suzy@happyhorsesbitless.com

Web: www.happyhorsesbitless.com

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