The age-old debate surrounding mare behavior in the equestrian world is often clouded by anecdotal evidence and ingrained stereotypes, leading many to believe that "mare-ish" traits are an inherent, unchangeable aspect of the female horse. However, renowned horse trainer Clinton Anderson challenges this prevailing notion, asserting that a horse’s perceived surliness, squealing, and attention-seeking behaviors are not solely dictated by their sex, but rather by the effectiveness of their training and the owner’s approach to discipline. This perspective offers a critical re-evaluation of how equestrians interact with and manage their mare partners, particularly in high-pressure environments like horse shows.
Anderson’s core argument is that what is often dismissed as an insurmountable "mare-ish" disposition is, in reality, a manifestation of underdeveloped respect and a lack of consistent behavioral boundaries. He draws a parallel to owners of head-shy horses, who often tiptoe around their animals, fearing any action might trigger a negative reaction. This fear-based approach, he contends, inadvertently reinforces the horse’s anxieties and prevents them from building confidence and trust. Similarly, excusing a mare’s disruptive behavior with phrases like "she’s in heat" or "she’s hormonal" circumvents the crucial work of establishing a solid training foundation and earning the horse’s respect.
The Foundation of Respect: Training Over Gender
Anderson’s extensive experience, cultivated over years of breeding and training horses at his ranch, has led him to conclude that consistent, early-onset training is paramount. He highlights that during his breeding and raising operations, fillies were treated with the same rigorous training regimen as colts from birth. This early immersion in respectful interaction and obedience meant that "mare-ish tendencies" were rarely observed. The philosophy was simple: never offer an excuse for poor behavior; instead, focus on correcting it through effective training.
This approach directly contradicts the common practice of attributing challenging behaviors to hormonal fluctuations. While Anderson acknowledges that a rare few mares may experience genuine hormonal imbalances or abnormalities, he emphasizes that this is not the norm. The overwhelming majority of perceived "mare-ish" behavior, he posits, stems from a deficit in training and a lack of accountability from the owner. The ease with which these excuses are deployed, he observes, points to a broader issue of a lack of responsibility within the equestrian community, where it is often simpler to rationalize bad behavior than to invest the time and effort required for correction.
Beyond the Stereotype: A Holistic View of Horse Minds
The discussion extends beyond simply labeling mares as inherently difficult. Anderson firmly believes that a horse’s temperament, trainability, and overall disposition are far more influenced by genetics, bloodlines, and the quality of training than by their gender. He has worked with a wide spectrum of horses, including both exceptionally well-minded mares and those with challenging personalities, as well as geldings that have ranged from paragons of virtue to sources of immense frustration. This broad exposure has solidified his conviction that "a good horse is a good horse regardless of gender."
This perspective is supported by broader scientific understanding of equine behavior. While hormonal cycles in mares can influence their mood and sensitivity, these are typically cyclical and manageable with appropriate training and management. Extensive research in animal behavior consistently demonstrates that consistent positive reinforcement and clear communication are key to developing well-adjusted and responsive animals across all species. Ignoring these principles and attributing behavioral issues solely to sex is an oversimplification that hinders effective training.
Supporting Data and Expert Consensus
The prevalence of the "mare stereotype" is evident in online forums and discussions within the equestrian community. A cursory search reveals countless threads where owners lament the perceived difficulties of mares, often seeking advice on managing "mare hormones" or dealing with "mare attitude." This widespread anecdotal evidence, while potent in shaping perceptions, often lacks empirical backing.
In contrast, professional trainers and behaviorists generally advocate for a gender-neutral approach to training. Organizations like the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) and the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), while not issuing official statements on mare behavior specifically, promote principles of sound horsemanship that emphasize consistency, patience, and a deep understanding of equine psychology. These principles are universally applicable, regardless of a horse’s sex.
Furthermore, the success of numerous top-level equestrian athletes who consistently compete and win with mares lends credence to Anderson’s argument. In disciplines ranging from show jumping and dressage to reining and ranch riding, mares consistently demonstrate the athleticism, intelligence, and competitive spirit required for success. Their achievements often defy the stereotypical limitations attributed to their gender. For example, in the world of reining, a discipline that demands precision, responsiveness, and a strong partnership, many of the most successful horses are mares. Their ability to perform complex maneuvers with accuracy and fluidity directly challenges the notion that they are inherently too distracted or temperamental for high-level competition.
The Implications for Horse Owners and Shows
Anderson’s insights have significant implications for horse owners, particularly those competing in disciplines like ranch riding, where a mare’s perceived "mare-ish" behavior could be a detriment. At shows, a horse that is easily distracted, squeals excessively, or exhibits a lack of focus can incur penalties and diminish their overall performance. Instead of resorting to supplements or avoiding certain situations, the focus should shift to refining the horse’s training and strengthening the bond between horse and rider.
The "supplement" question posed by the initial inquirer highlights a common approach: seeking external solutions to behavioral problems rather than addressing the root cause. While certain supplements might offer temporary relief for some mares, they are unlikely to resolve underlying issues of disrespect or lack of training. Anderson’s stance suggests that the most effective "supplement" is a consistent and knowledgeable training program.
The broader implication for the equestrian industry is the potential for a more nuanced and effective approach to horse management. By debunking the pervasive "mare stereotype," owners can be empowered to address behavioral challenges with a focus on training and partnership, rather than succumbing to generalizations. This shift can lead to stronger equine-human relationships, more successful partnerships, and a more accurate understanding of the capabilities and individual needs of each horse, irrespective of its sex. The emphasis on accountability and effective training offers a pathway to unlocking the full potential of every equine athlete.
