Nicky Ellis, Author at Horses & Foals

What Does It Mean When A Horse Nudges You With His Nose?

Horses’ nostrils and sense of smell are very sensitive. In fact, horses communicate a great deal with their noses. What does it mean when a horse nudges you with his nose, snorts or blows through his nostrils? In this article, we explore these nosy questions and more. Horse Nosy Questions 1. Why does a horse … Read more

rodeo terms explained Frequently Asked Questions

Rodeo Terms Explained: Terminology & Slang

Rodeo consist of seven separate, complex and unique events. Each event has its own rules and its own terminology. For this reason, the sport of rodeo as a whole is a rich source of interesting language and slang. When you go to a rodeo, if you’re not hip to this jive, you may have a … Read more

how to catch a horse Frequently Asked Questions

How To Catch A Horse {My Tips & Tricks}

Anytime you’re around your horse, you’re teaching him something. Horses are keen observers of human behavior, so it’s important that we always behave in consistent and trustworthy ways around our horses. You may see some folks chasing their horses around in an attempt to catch them, and this tells you two things about these folks: … Read more

How To Teach A Horse To Back Up?

Backing up is an important skill for a horse to know, whether you’re on the ground or in the saddle. The ability to back is integral part of many everyday tasks, rodeo events and show disciplines. On the trail, you may find yourself in a tight situation where your horse can’t turnaround or in a … Read more

Work on Having Your Horse Flex While Moving Forward

What You Need To Know About Teaching Your Horse To Soften To The Bit

When a horse “softens to the bit”, it means that when you simultaneously squeeze with your legs and pick up your reins, he will tuck in his nose creating slack in those reins. This is a sign that he is listening to you and waiting for your instruction. If you lift his head or tosses … Read more

How High Can A Horse Jump?

How high a horse can jump will, obviously, depend on the size of the horse – you cannot expect a Shetland to clear a five bar gate! Breed also helps to determine how high a horse can jump, as some breeds have been bred for it over the centuries and are generally better at it. … Read more

do horses eat meat Frequently Asked Questions

Do Horses Eat Meat {Explained!}

Do horses eat meat? The quick and simple answer is no, they do not. But a one word answer doesn’t make a very interesting read, so let’s have a more in depth look at what horses eat and why. Do Horses Eat Meat In The Wild? Do horses eat meat in the wild? Not voluntarily, … Read more

What Is Breakaway Roping {Explained!}

Breakaway roping is a gentler style of calf roping that doesn’t include tying the calf. This style of roping (others are, for example, team roping) is open to cowboys and cowgirls of all ages. The skills needed for successful breakaway roping include: This timed event is especially popular with junior high and high school riders. … Read more

Shetland Pony Vs Miniature Horse

When you think of horses, chances are you think of the really big ones. But spare a thought for the tiny ones too! Little horses are incredibly versatile and have many uses, from being the obvious choice for mount for children, to driving, showing, keeping as pets and all sorts of other things. If you’re … Read more

What Do Donkeys Eat (Are They Different From Horses)?

Horses, donkeys, mules, ponies and zebras are all equines. They are related, but they are not identical in their needs. In fact, no matter what sort of equine you have, you are wise to research that animal’s specific needs carefully in order to provide just the right diet. In this article, we discuss the nutritional … Read more