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BMC veterinary research2012; 8; 180; doi: 10.1186/1746-6148-8-180

Psychological factors affecting equine performance.

Abstract: For optimal individual performance within any equestrian discipline horses must be in peak physical condition and have the correct psychological state. This review discusses the psychological factors that affect the performance of the horse and, in turn, identifies areas within the competition horse industry where current behavioral research and established behavioral modification techniques could be applied to further enhance the performance of animals. In particular, the role of affective processes underpinning temperament, mood and emotional reaction in determining discipline-specific performance is discussed. A comparison is then made between the training and the competition environment and the review completes with a discussion on how behavioral modification techniques and general husbandry can be used advantageously from a performance perspective.
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Publication Date: 2012-09-27 PubMed ID: 23016987PubMed Central: PMC3514365DOI: 10.1186/1746-6148-8-180Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

This study explores the psychological factors that impact the performance of horses in equestrian disciplines. The researchers concluded that temperament, mood, and emotional reactions play crucial parts and that behavior modification techniques and good animal husbandry practices could enhance their performance.

Role of Affective Processes

  • The researchers highlight that a horse’s temperament, mood, and emotional reactions play significant roles in their specific discipline-related performance. This is because these affective processes govern their willingness to learn, their stress-levels, and their overall well-being, which are crucial for their performance.
  • For instance, a horse’s temperament can determine how it reacts to different stimuli. A horse with a calm and patient temperament is more likely to perform better in disciplines that require precision and patience, like dressage, compared to a horse with a more spirited temperament.
  • Mood and emotional reactions are also important. If a horse is frequently in a negative or stressful mood, it may be less willing to engage in training or perform adequately during competition. On the contrary, a horse in a positive mood is likely to learn more quickly and perform better.

Comparison between Training and Competition Environments

  • The authors draw comparisons between the training environment and the competition one. The competition environment typically includes a number of stress-inducers that are not present during training, like crowds, loud noises, unfamiliar locations, and the presence of other horses. This switch from training to competition can negatively impact a horse’s performance if not properly managed.
  • Moreover, consistency between both environments is emphasized for enhanced training effectiveness and performance. Inconsistent environments can lead to increased stress in horses, which can hence affect their performance.

Role of Behavioral Modification Techniques and Good Husbandry Practices

  • The review suggests that behavioral modification techniques can drastically improve a horse’s performance. These techniques could involve positive reinforcement when the horse does well, or gradually exposing the horse to the stress-inducers it might confront during competition.
  • Good husbandry practices can also play a key role. This can include providing adequate food and shelter, regular health check-ups, and providing a safe and comfortable environment for the horse. These measures help ensure the horse is healthy, comfortable, and consequently more likely to perform well.

This detailed analysis and discussion present pathways for enhancing equine performance through the understanding and harnessing of psychological factors, consistency across training and competition environments, and the promotion of good husbandry and behavioral training practices.

Cite This Article

APA
McBride SD, Mills DS. (2012). Psychological factors affecting equine performance. BMC Vet Res, 8, 180. https://doi.org/10.1186/1746-6148-8-180

Publication

BMC veterinary research
ISSN: 1746-6148
NlmUniqueID: 101249759
Country: England
Language: English
Volume: 8
Pages: 180

Researcher Affiliations

McBride, Sebastian D
  • Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester, GL7 6JS, Gloucestershire. contact@sdmcbride.co.uk
Mills, Daniel S

    MeSH Terms

    • Animal Husbandry
    • Animal Welfare
    • Animals
    • Behavior, Animal
    • Horses / psychology
    • Physical Conditioning, Animal / psychology
    • Sports
    • Temperament

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