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ES Epigenetics: equine nutrition programs the foal of the future.
June 23, 2025
At a time when freedom, trust and connection are central to dealing with horses, it sometimes seems like "setting boundaries" is an outdated or even unfriendly concept. But nothing could be further from the truth. It is precisely horses that are given clarity that find peace. Structure is not a restriction on freedom - it is its foundation.
A boundary is not a punishment. It is a framework in which a horse knows where it stands. Compare it to a safe paddock: not endless, but clear. You see the same thing in herd behavior among themselves: horses are clear, direct and consistent in their signals.
Without clear boundaries, confusion arises. And confusion leads to insecurity - or to taking on responsibility that the horse cannot handle. Think of the horse that becomes pushy, or just reacts nervously to every little stimulus.
Structure means predictability. A fixed daily schedule, clear communication and consistent human behavior result in less stress, less tension building and greater learning ability.
A horse that knows when to expect something (feeding time, training, rest) and what is intended in contact with humans can relax in the moment. Horses are not looking for a "leader" in a dominant sense, but rather someone to help them make sense of the world.
Nutrition also plays a role in this. Horses are creatures of habit. Irregular feeding times, waiting too long or constantly changing rations can lead to behavioral changes: from restlessness to feed envy.
By keeping the ration predictable, balanced and attuned to the horse's rhythm, you also provide peace of mind in this area. Roughage ad libitum (or in several small portions spread throughout the day) is not only healthy for the body, but also for the mind.
Setting boundaries is an act of care, not control. It is saying: I see you, I guide you, and I give you peace. Because horses also benefit from frameworks - if offered with love, knowledge and respect.