Most of us have, whether we like to admit it or not, an inner horsegirl, who would just love to pet horses all day long!

Every horse is unique

Every horse is different. Some horses simply do not like to be pet. Especially those that have a lot of daily visitors, like lesson ponies. However: Most horses love to have a good cuddle session when you've found their favourite spot!

Pay attention to your horse's body language

It is very important to look at your horse's body language. Do they like it? Are they relaxing? Or are they getting a bit grumpy, do you see a lot of tension, and ears that are pinned flat to the back? Let them tell you whether they want it or not!

Some horses enjoy a good cuddle so much that they start nibbling you. This can be a natural behaviour: Horses groom each other and it can be a sign of affection. For us humans however, this nibbling can be quite painful so it’s best to try and prevent that. 

Where do horses love to be petted?

Now that we’ve covered the basics, what are the most common favourite petting spots for horses?

1. The withers
You know the feeling? At the start or end of a cold period, your horse starts shedding. You decide to get your curry comb and go to work. Suddenly your horse holds its head high and stretched, and its lip starts moving. 
Particularly when brushing or itching behind the withers. Horses who like that, tend to go into this position when rubbing them there. Clearly, that spot has been approved!

2. The neck
Mainly at the base of the neck, in front of the shoulder. Orrr maybe a bit closer to the chest. Yeah, horses can definitely enjoy a good scratch in these areas!

3. Behind the ears
Sometimes horses can almost be mistaken as dogs …  Dogs love a good scratch behind the ears, and so do horses! Not every horse likes it when someone gets close to their face though, so be mindful of that when touching a horse behind their ears.

4. The head
Out of nowhere, you may suddenly have a 30-pound horse head in your hands, completely relaxed… until you stop scratching. Your horse starts looking at you like you just said the meanest insult to them. “Hey owner, where are my pets??”

The head offers multiple spots for affection, from gently petting the forehead, to between the eyes or a good rub under the jaw.

As mentioned with the ears, applies to the head as well: not every horse likes their face being touched, so always proceed with caution when approaching the head.

5. On the hind
This is another popular choice when using a rubber curry comb! Éspecially during shedding season. While you are getting some goggles to protect yourself against all the fur flying around, your horse is enjoying life to the fullest. 
Even outside of shedding season, this remains a popular spot for many of our four-legged friends.

What are the favourite spots of your (lease/favourite lesson) horses? Can it be found in this list, or does your sweetheart prefer another spot? Or perhaps they’re not fans of cuddling at all?