8 Great Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe With Horses

Horses and dogs go together like bread and butter. However, there are some safety concerns to consider when the two are together.

Horses (equine) are prey animals. A horse will run or kick when startled. A dog (canine) is a predator. The predator has the psychological "upper hand" over the prey when the two meet. Even though dogs are domesticated and will rarely show aggression toward a horse causing it to flee, the instincts are "hard-wired" into each animal. Here a few tips to keep both your dog and your horse safe at the barn or on the trail.

1. Always have your dog on a short leash when introducing your dog to a horse. Mendota offers a full line of leather dog collars and leashes that will appeal to any equestrian.


2. Never hold your dog up to a horse's face. You will run the risk of one or both of them biting. A bite from a horse will send you and your dog straight to the veterinarian.


3. Use caution when walking your dog around horses. Your dog should always be on leash. Horses can move quickly, in any direction, when startled (spooked). If you do not know the horse, assume it will startle easily. The risk you have when walking your dog around horses is they may get stepped on. An average horse weighs 900-1200 pounds. Even a pony weighs over 500 pounds. You get the idea.


4. Don't let your dog eat horse poop (road apples). Horse poop may contain unwanted parasites and insect larvae. The result may be diarrhea and vomiting. If your dog needs a healthy treat, give her a Zuke's Mini Natural treat.


5. Don't let your dog eat horse hoof trimmings. Dogs can't digest a horse's hoof and will throw it up. Don't confuse a freshly trimmed horse's hoof with the processed hoof chews sold at pet stores. A trimmed horse hoof will contain dirt, debris and horse urine. A safe and healthy dog chew or bone from Merrick is a much better alternative.


6. Don't let your dog run around, off leash, in an arena or pasture when the horses are occupying that space. Chances are the dog will give chase. These areas may appear inviting to you and your dog since the spaces are large and fenced in, but it's not safe for either animal. The horse may feel threaten and attempt to jump the fence or just run through it. Or the horse will feel trapped and decide to fight back by kicking. If you have a herding breed, the dog may choose to drive the horse by nipping the horse in the hind tendon area. If the horse kicks, the dog gets severely injured. If the dog does more than nip, the horse can get injured.


7. Always keep your dog on leash when visiting a stable. Horse stables (Equestrian Centers) are busy places. Not only are there horses and people actively moving about but you will also find cars, trucks, trailers and tractors coming and going. Preston offers a full line of matching collars, harnesses and leashes to keep your dog safe and stylish. Be smart and keep your dog out of harm's way.


8. Keeping your dog on leash will also keep others who are riding or walking their horses safe. Riders and handlers can get injured if your loose dog spooks their horse. You must always respect the horse and rider.

These tips apply to both novice and experienced horse and dog owners. Horses and dogs are a beautiful combination when the humans are in control of the interaction. There is no reason this can't be a safe and harmonious relationship for all.