– Pawing the Ground: Pawing is often misinterpreted as impatience, but it can also signal frustration or discomfort from pain. –
– Biting or Nipping: Horses may bite or nip out of curiosity or playfulness, not always aggression or dominance. –
– Staring or Fixating: A horse that stares or fixates on something is often just curious or assessing a potential threat, not necessarily scared. –
– Flicking Ears: Rapid ear flicking is sometimes mistaken for irritation, but it can also indicate that the horse is trying to communicate with its surroundings. –
– Pacing in the Stall: While pacing can seem like anxiety or stress, it may also be due to excess energy or boredom. –
– Snapping the Teeth: Horses may snap their teeth as a sign of play or exploration, not necessarily aggression or annoyance. –
– Head Tossing: Head tossing may be viewed as misbehavior, but it can often indicate discomfort, such as an ill-fitting bridle or dental issues. –
– Licking and Chewing: Licking or chewing on objects is frequently a sign of relaxation or contentment, not always a sign of distress. –