Horse body language

Pawing

“Pawing” is a horse body-language signal. Here is how to recognize it, what it usually means, and how to respond calmly and safely.

What you see: The horse scrapes the ground with a front hoof.
What it can mean: Impatient, bored, or unsure (sometimes a habit).

What to do

Give space and ask an instructor what to do.

Related lessons

Safe Spaces: Where to StandLearn the safest places to stand and how to move around a horse.
Approach a Horse SafelyA calm, step-by-step approach that helps horses feel safe too.
Barn Rules for BeginnersSimple rules that keep you and horses safe at the barn.

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