Mike Clinton
Introduction to Horse Communication
Horses are incredibly expressive animals, and they use a variety of methods to communicate with each other and with humans. Understanding equine communication is essential for building a strong relationship with your horse, as well as for keeping both you and your horse safe and comfortable.
One of the ways horses communicate is through body language, including facial expressions, ear position, tail movement, and vocalizations. One of the most commonly heard vocalizations is the clicking sound that horses make with their tongues.
The Significance of Clicking
While clicking might seem like a relatively minor aspect of equine communication, it can actually reveal a great deal about a horse’s thoughts and feelings. As a horse owner or rider, it’s important to pay attention to your horse’s clicking behavior, as it can provide valuable insights into your horse’s emotional state and level of comfort.
To truly understand the significance of clicking, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of horse body language and how horses use various vocalizations to communicate with each other and with humans.
Understanding Horse Body Language
Horses use a wide range of body language cues to convey information to others. For example, when a horse pins its ears back, it is typically an indication of displeasure or aggression. Conversely, when a horse’s ears are forward, it may be indicating curiosity or interest.
Similarly, a horse’s tail can provide valuable information about its emotions. When a horse’s tail is tucked tightly between its legs, it is likely experiencing fear or anxiety. On the other hand, when a horse’s tail is held high and swishing back and forth, it may be feeling playful or excited.
Clicking as a Form of Communication
In addition to body language, horses use vocalizations to communicate with one another. For example, horses may neigh to signal excitement or distress, or nicker softly as a greeting or as a way to express affection.
One of the less well-known equine vocalizations is the clicking sound that horses make with their tongues. While it might seem like a relatively insignificant sound, clicking can actually convey a great deal of information about a horse’s emotional state and level of comfort.
Why Horses Click Their Tongues
While the precise reasons for horses clicking their tongues are not fully understood, it is believed to be a form of self-soothing behavior. When horses are feeling anxious or uncomfortable, they may begin to click their tongues as a way to calm themselves down.
In addition to being a self-soothing behavior, clicking can also serve as a way for horses to communicate with humans. For example, some horses may begin to click their tongues when they are hungry or when they are anticipating a treat or reward.
Potential Reasons for Clicking Behavior
There are a number of potential reasons why a horse may begin to click its tongue. Some horses may click their tongues as a form of self-soothing when they are feeling anxious or uncomfortable, while others may do so out of excitement or anticipation.
In some cases, horses may also click their tongues as a way of expressing frustration or irritation. For example, a horse might begin clicking its tongue if it is being asked to do something that it finds difficult or unpleasant.
The Role of Training in Clicking
While clicking is a natural behavior for horses, it can also be trained as a specific cue or command. For example, some trainers may use clicking as a way to signal to a horse that a reward is coming, or as a way to communicate specific behaviors that they want the horse to perform.
It’s important to note, however, that this kind of training should be done carefully and with the guidance of an experienced trainer. Clicker training, for example, can be a very effective way to teach horses new behaviors, but it requires a great deal of skill and knowledge to do it safely and effectively.
How to Respond to Your Horse’s Clicking
If your horse begins clicking its tongue, it’s important to pay attention to the context and the horse’s overall body language. If the horse seems relaxed and comfortable, the clicking is likely a self-soothing behavior and may not require any intervention.
However, if the horse seems anxious or uncomfortable, it’s important to address the underlying issue. This might involve removing the horse from a stressful situation, providing additional support and reassurance, or working with a trainer to help the horse feel more comfortable and confident.
Addressing Problematic Clicking
While clicking is generally a harmless behavior, it can become problematic if it is used as a way to express frustration or aggression. If your horse begins clicking its tongue in a way that seems aggressive or threatening, it’s important to address the behavior immediately.
This might involve working with a trainer to identify the root cause of the behavior and develop a plan for addressing it. In some cases, it may be necessary to consult with a veterinarian or equine behavior specialist to ensure that the horse’s needs are being met and any underlying medical or psychological issues are being addressed.
Conclusion: Communication and Connection with Your Horse
Understanding your horse’s communication cues, including clicking, is essential for building a strong and positive relationship with your horse. By paying attention to your horse’s body language and vocalizations, you can gain valuable insights into its thoughts and feelings, and develop a deeper sense of connection and understanding.
Whether you are a seasoned rider or a new horse owner, taking the time to learn about equine communication and behavior can help you create a safe, comfortable, and fulfilling environment for both you and your horse.