The rich history of off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) in equestrian sport has generated a valuable body of anecdotal knowledge of their behavioural characteristics; however, evidence-based resources are relatively lacking. It is important to gain objective understanding of OTTB behaviour to responsibly prepare them for the transition from racing to equestrian careers.
Following is a synopsis of a presentation by Australian researchers at the International Society for Equitation Science conference entitled “A Good Life for Horses” presented by ISES in New Zealand in March 2024. The study in question used observations from 1,663 owners, extracted from the Equine Behaviour Assessment and Research Questionnaire (E-BARQ) database, to compare off-track Thoroughbred behaviour with those of other horse breeds. Specific areas of evaluation were boldness, compliance, rideability, trainability and responsiveness to acceleration and deceleration signals. The OTTBs in this study:
- demonstrated significantly higher boldness than control horses;
- showed lower compliance and responsiveness to deceleration cues than control horses;
- trainability, rideability and responsiveness to acceleration cues didn’t differ significantly compared to the control group,
The current finding of greater boldness in OTTBs compared to other horses challenges previous studies and calls for further research to differentiate between the relative influences of inherent breed temperament and acquired life experience. The E-BARQ collects detailed information regarding training and management practices that could facilitate future analysis of the effects of these variables on behaviour. With increased understanding of how boldness relates to racing experiences, these might be more purposefully optimized to benefit the horse in its equestrian second career.