How do you know when a horse is upset?

Answer 1

like humans all animals have a way to talk...

for example, if a dog is scared it might put its tail between its legs and whimper. Cats have a flight or fight instinct if the threat is to big it will pick flight. Horses on the other hand could bite or kick.

It also matters on the horses temperament. So if you see a horse tense up or flick its ears back and forth you need to use a soft voice and soothing tone!

Answer 2

If you mean restrained as in tied to a post, then generally there whole body becomes very tense, their ears will be flat back behind their head, and will become very aggitated and paranoid. Occasionally horses start 'hopping' where they move from side to side, or possibly let out faint sorts of grunts that sound quite cough-like. They will often bear their teeth (but if you aren't sure, please please please do not go looking inside there), and sometimes start grinding their teeth.

If you do sense your horse is getting stressed, re-assure it that you are there, gently stroke it neck, whisper softly, and what some horses like is if you blow gently blow air onto its face.

Answer 3

It can vary, but generally when a horse is in a bad mood its ears are laid back and it's pawing or stomping on the ground.