What Is Welfare? A Qualitative Study into Perceptions of Equine Welfare of Horse Owners

While existing literature broadly addresses equine welfare, limited research has explored horse owners' perspectives on welfare within the contexts of ownership. This study aimed to identify aspects of care and practice that horse owners consider essential for safeguarding equine welfare. An online survey comprising eight open-ended questions was analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. A total of 341 responses identified four higher-order themes: Equine Husbandry, Human–Horse Interaction, Equitation and Training, and Personal Development and Ethics. Equine Husbandry was the most frequently referenced theme, with respondents emphasizing the importance of appropriate housing and management practices, particularly the provision of year-round turnout, as central to equine welfare. Within the theme of Human–Horse Interaction, owners highlighted the need to understand equine behavior, recognize signs of stress, and treat horses as sentient beings deserving of respect, while avoiding anthropomorphism. The Equitation and Training theme underscored the importance of ethical, evidence-based training practices, including the correct use of tack and equipment. Many respondents expressed negative views toward the use of whips and spurs and stressed the value of qualified coaches who prioritize welfare-focused training. However, concerns were raised about entrenched or outdated coaching practices that may compromise welfare. Participants emphasized the importance of ongoing education, reflection, and a multidisciplinary approach to equine management, including collaboration with veterinarians, professional farriers, and saddle fitters. Despite widespread awareness of welfare considerations, findings suggest the persistence of a knowledge–practice gap. Focusing on education and evidence-based training is recommended to enhance the application of welfare principles in horse ownership.