The dominance theory training model and herd pecking order theory have been disproven!

So now what?

What has been helpful to me and my students when watching herd dynamics is that these "dominant", "aggressive", "bold" horses tend to be the herds primary protectors. They may be valued as a protector due to their size and ability to physically protect the herd and their status when new horses are introduced. They can be valued for their alertness and awareness of their environment and ability to alert the herd of potential threat. They may be valued for their boldness and curiosity to be the first to investigate the thing that is deemed a threat or to lead the way. They could and should be valued for all 3 of these traits.

Whichever value they represent, the primary protectors are more leader than follower, and they can be more challenging to negotiate terms of engagement with and to take direction. They really need to have trust and confidence in your ability to make good choices, otherwise they will see you as the threat and act accordingly – whether that be refusing to listen, refusing to move or retaliation against escalated pressure.

For these horses it is vital we encompass the Compassionate Leadership values of the Holistic Horse Handler.

With these horses more so than others we really need to prove our value to them to get their consent and willingness. If they aren't happy with how we are working with them, they are really comfortable showing it.

Is your horse showing these signs and you aren’t sure of your next best steps, take the default personality quiz for a more personalized result and next steps.