Horses

Judith Rakers sits on a couch with a cat, presenting her children's book.

PETBOOK Interview Judith Rakers: "You Should Never Betray a Horse's Trust"

Judith Rakers offers insights into her farm life. Discover how horses reflect our behavior and why nature is important for children.

Often Underestimated How Much Hay a Horse Consumes Per Day

How much hay does a horse eat per day, and what is the hay rule? PETBOOK explains why hay is so important for horses.

Common Illness How to Recognize Arthritis in Your Horse

If a horse suddenly moves more stiffly or doesn't walk smoothly, arthritis could be the cause. PETBOOK explains what owners should watch for.

Horse being washed, second image inserted with foam, sweating horse

Shampoo or Sweat? Did You Know? Why Horses Sweat Foam

Is it sweat or shampoo? Horse sweat often appears foamy—PETBOOK explains the reasons behind this and how much sweat is considered normal.

Expert Provides Insight Are Mares in Heat Really More "Moody"?

A mare in heat is often quickly labeled as "moody." Behavioral biologist Dr. Vivian Gabor explains why this is problematic.

two women examine the legs of a horse standing still

Most Common Causes Why Is My Horse Lame?

If a horse is limping, there can be various causes. PETBOOK explains what owners need to pay special attention to.

On Many Pastures Why Do Some Horses Wear Masks?

Have you ever seen horses wearing masks in the pasture? PETBOOK explains what's behind this and how to properly fit a mask on your horse.

Winners, jury, and host of the Equestrian Creator Awards 2026 (from left to right): André Karkalis, Michaela Stocker, Linda Krüger, Sarah Wollenweber, Annika Krämer-Kühl, Beatrix Hentschel, Patrick Thomalla, Michelle Buchholtz, Christoph Hess, Nina Aschhoff, Daniel D’Amico.

Equestrian Creator Award The Best Horse Influencers of 2026 Have Been Announced

The Equestrian Creator Awards 2026: These horse influencers were honored—and one winner takes home two awards.

Even seemingly harmless foods can be dangerous for horses and ponies—unauthorized feeding can, in the worst case, be fatal.

Underestimated Danger Well-Intentioned but Deadly: Why Feeding Horses Is Prohibited

Many people illegally feed other people's horses with seemingly harmless foods or grass. This can be fatal for the animals.

Common Illness Recognizing and Treating Thrush in Horses

Thrush in horses is one of the most troublesome equine diseases. PETBOOK explains how owners can identify thrush and how it is treated.

Icelandic Horse Exhibits Flehmen Response

Showing Teeth in Humor? Why Do Horses Actually Flehmen?

Why do horses flehmen? While the behavior often looks amusing, there can be a serious reason behind it. PETBOOK provides an overview.

Rugged and Athletic Why the Irish Connemara Pony Captivates the World

The Connemara pony is one of the largest and most popular pony breeds. PETBOOK reveals what makes this breed so special.

Deworming horses is a regular routine for many horse owners.

Annoying Parasites Worms in Horses? What Owners Need to Know

Worms in horses? What owners need to know about infestations and how veterinarians treat affected animals.

Horse-drawn carriages at Residenzplatz in Salzburg's Old Town

Opinion Why I Would Never Ride in a Horse-Drawn Carriage Again

Horse-drawn carriages are considered a romantic tradition. However, PETBOOK editor Emily Reimann believes—especially since owning her own horses—that they are unacceptable!

Often Underestimated Horse Uncontrollably Shakes Head: Understanding "Headshaking"

Do you recognize headshaking in your horse? There might be more to it than just simple head tossing. PETBOOK explains.

Horse in a stall, looking up toward the barn aisle

Purulent Abscesses Highly Contagious Infectious Disease: Recognizing Strangles in Horses

Strangles is a highly infectious disease in horses. PETBOOK explains what owners need to know about this disease.

Stress Among Peers Is There Bullying Among Horses? Here's What the Expert Says

Do horses experience "bullying"? PETBOOK consults behavior expert Dr. Vivian Gabor.

Behavior Explained Why Horses Paw the Ground

Why does a horse paw the ground? A question with many possible answers—PETBOOK explains what's behind it.

"Smart Hans" How This Horse Fooled Everyone

Do you know the "Clever Hans Effect"? Behind it lies the story of a calculating horse. PETBOOK reveals whether this story is true.

Muscle Weakness How to Recognize Carrying Fatigue in Horses

Carrying fatigue in horses is identifiable by a visible change in the animal. However, it can be effectively treated.

Neurological Disorder Narcolepsy in Horses: What Owners Should Know

Narcolepsy in horses is a neurological disorder with symptoms that owners should be aware of, explains PETBOOK.