Ears forward show interest or suspicion. Some horses show interest in everything they see in new surroundings without seeing anything fearful to be avoided. Such horses maintain a good attitude and seem to enjoy their work. Others keep their ears forward and eyes open, looking for something to shy from. Eyes and nostrils show emotion and reflect temperament.
Dilated nostrils reflect interest, curiosity or apprehension.
When the eyes flash, nostrils dilate and muscles tense, the horse is likely to react. It might be only a slight start, a reverse in direction, or both. If the cause of fright intensifies, the horse may bolt, rear or buck. Riders who read their horses' emotions accurately can often steady the horse with reassuring words or control through the reins. Suede chaps also are helpful and some type of boot should always be worn around horses to prevent hanging in the stirrup.