Do you ever see horses running and wonder why they do it? It seems like a strange thing to do, especially when there’s no apparent danger nearby. The truth is that horses run for a number of reasons – some of these are instinctual and others are learned. But all are equally fascinating.
So why do horses run? Keep reading to find out!
Horses and the Natural Instinct to Run
Horses are prey animals. This means that in the wild, horses can be hunted for food by predators. Prey animals have a fight-or-flight response hardwired into their brains to help them survive.
When a horse perceives a threat, its natural instinct is to run away. This is one of the reasons why the horse’s anatomy and body are specifically designed for running. And horses can run fast and they can cover long distances.
It’s an adaptation that has helped horses survive in the wild for thousands of years. For example, horses have long legs and a powerful hind end to help them run quickly away from predators.
While most domesticated horses will never have to worry about being hunted by predators, they still retain this natural instinct to run. It’s why you’ll often see horses running around in fields or paddocks for no apparent reason – they’re just following their instinct to run.
Why Do Horses Run? – Top Reasons
As we saw above running is as natural to horses as breathing. And there are many reasons why horses might run.
Here are some of the top reasons why horses run:
- To Release Energy
- Because they’re Scared
- Because they’re Excited
- For Exercise
- Because they’re Herding
- For Fun
- In a Race
Let’s look closely at each of these reasons why horses run.
#1. Horses Run to Release Energy
All horses have a natural need to move and be active. It’s why you’ll often see horses running and playing in fields, even when there isn’t any apparent danger around.
Horses are able to run at high speeds for long periods of time because they have a respiratory system and a blood circulation system that allows them to deliver more oxygen to muscles than can other animals. This allows their muscles to work harder for longer without tiring.
So when a horse is feeling full of energy, it will often start running to release that energy in a safe and healthy way.
#2. Horses Run When They’re Scared
There are plenty of things that horses are afraid of. Horses are also naturally curious animals and they can also be easily spooked by new and unfamiliar things. When a horse feels scared or threatened, its natural instinct is to run away from the perceived danger.
You’ll often see horses running away from things like loud noises, sudden movements, and unfamiliar animals. It’s their way of trying to escape a situation that feels scary or dangerous to them.
#3. Horses Run When They’re Excited
Horses can get just as excited as we do about things they enjoy. When a horse is feeling happy and excited, it will often start running around in circles or galloping across a field.
You might see horses running and playing with each other, or running to greet you when you reach the paddock. It’s their way of showing how happy and excited they are.
#4. Horses Run for Exercise
Horses are active animals, and they need to exercise to stay healthy. Just like us, horses can become overweight and unfit if they don’t get enough exercise.
So when a horse isn’t getting enough exercise, it will often start running around to get the exercise it needs. Often horse owners or handlers will make horses run for exercise. This is especially necessary for racehorses who need to be in peak physical condition to compete.
#5. Horses Run When They’re Herding
Horses are social animals, and they naturally live in herds. In the wild, herds of horses will often travel long distances together to find food and water.
When domesticated horses are kept together in groups, they will often try to mimic this natural behavior by running around together. This is why you’ll often see horses running in circles or back and forth when they’re kept in groups. They’re just trying to herd each other like they would in the wild.
#6. Horses Run for Fun
Sometimes it’s the simplest of reasons why horses run. Because they enjoy it! Just like us, horses love to let loose and have fun. And what better way to have fun than by running around as fast as they can?
This is especially the case with younger horses who are still exploring their boundaries and trying out new things. But even older horses will still enjoy a good run every now and then.
#7. Horses Run In Races
Race horses are in a category of their own. When horses run in races, they’re doing it because they have been trained and conditioned to do so. In most cases, racehorses enjoy running and jumping and see it as a fun and exciting activity.
Of course, there is also the competitive element of horse racing which can add an extra level of excitement for both the horse and the rider. And so running in races is another reason why horses run.
The Bottom Line
So, why do horses run? There are many reasons why horses run, but ultimately it comes down to the fact that they’re just following their natural instincts. Whether it’s for exercise, fun, or to escape a perceived danger, horses will often start running around when they feel the need to do so.
Most horses find running to be a fun and enjoyable activity. It is also a necessary activity as it helps to keep them fit and healthy. So the next time you see a horse running, remember that it’s just doing what comes naturally to it.
