Horse has seperation anxiety (Herd sour?)

by Vickie
(Murphys, Ca, USA)

Recently purchased a 10 year old Paint Mare was told she was dead broke. She hadn't been ridden for six months or so. We put her in a pasture with our 6 year old Quarter horse mare. When we separate them while riding the 6 year old or just taking her out of site of the 10 year old the 10 year old goes wild. Bucking, pacing, rearing up. My concern is that she may hurt herself breaking through a fence or something when we just go riding with the 6 yr.old. Any suggestions?


Hi Vickie,

Since horses are herd animals and not loners it is a common situation to find a horse unwilling to be alone. This has to do with the instinctual need to survive. They know that safety comes in numbers and being alone leaves them feeling very venerable to a predator who may want them for lunch. Plus horses are very social creatures needing the comfort from their own kind to feel emotionally balanced (just like people!).

Your horse is not “herd sour” she’s “herd sweet”! You mentioned “recently purchased” she may also just need more time adjusting to her environment to feel more safe.

Please see our page on Separation Anxiety that will offer you further insight and suggestions. Patients and understanding of the horses needs are your best tools.

Elaine Polny