Dependencies between animal and environmental factors and behavioral problems in horses: a survey-based analysis

Undesirable and stereotypical behaviors may indicate abnormalities in the living environment of animals. They have a negative impact on the welfare of animals and hinder the handling and use thereof. Unfortunately, horse owners often fail to recognize the causes of behavioral problems in their animals. The aim of the study was to analyze the breeding conditions, type of use and individual traits of horses in relation to displaying undesirable and stereotypical behavior. The assessment was made based on 609 online questionnaires completed by horse owners from Poland (n=376), UK (n=145), USA and Canada (n=66), Australia and NZ (n=22). It has been shown that the undesirable behaviors are influenced by e.g. access to pastures, presence of other horses on paddocks and supply frequency of roughage. Problematic behaviors are particularly frequently displayed by animals with a lively temperament. Horses should be kept under conditions meeting their feeding, social and locomotor behavioral needs. The evaluation of their individual traits may help to assess the risk of developing abnormal behavior and thus, to prevent it. Raising the awareness of horse keepers and breeders of the causes of problem behaviors should be the key issue.