If your horse is sensitive when you touch around its ears it will either be a behavioural issue or due to pain and discomfort. Unfortunately, the vast majority of ear shyness stems from behavioural issues, meaning there usually isn’t a quick fix. These horses need patience, repetition, and understanding to help gain your horse’s trust and respect. Luckily medical causes of ear shyness are rare but may be considered if there is a sudden onset of avoidance or if only one ear is seemingly sensitive. If this is the case, examine the ear/s for any signs of cuts, painful lumps, increase in discharge, or external parasites such as ticks. If you suspect a medical cause for your horse’s ear shyness be sure to contact your local veterinarian.