All About Horse Communication All About Horse Communication Never underestimate a horse's powers of communication. Horses are sophisticated in their ability to communicate, not only with each other but also with other creatures and humans around them. In order to handle and ride horses successfully, you need a clear understanding of the characteristics and instincts that drive equine behavior.
Horses rely heavily on touch to communicate both with humans and with other horses.
This is readily apparent when the horse responds to the leg and seat pressures of the rider. Whiskers are used to touch and feel objects, mainly food. Mutual grooming between horses is a form of ritual bonding within herds. Horses touch and nuzzle each other as a sign of friendship and acceptance. Physical contact with other horses is vital to the mental well-being of your horse.