S3 | 11. The Fight Response in Horses: When Your Horse Pushes Back

If your horse isn't spooky…and they're not shutdown…but they do push back - this episode is for you. Fight responses in horses are often misunderstood. They can show up as nipping, pinned ears, tail swishing, big reactions (like kicking, rearing, bucking etc.), or behaviours that get labelled as "dominant", "pushy", or "opinionated". And when this is your horse, it can leave you feeling confused, judged by others, and second-guessing yourself - especially when you know there's more going on beneath the behaviour. Fight responses aren't bad behaviour. They're a nervous system response...one that often shows up when a horse still has agency, expression, and a desire to stay in relationship… but doesn't yet feel safe. In this episode, I explore: What the fight response actually is Why fight behaviours often get misunderstood How fight responses can emerge A real story with my horse, Lily Why this phase can feel so hard to hold as a human This episode isn't about fixing behaviour. It's about understanding what your horse is communicating and why fight responses ask for discernment, nuance, and support rather than quick answers. If you love a horse who pushes back…and you've ever felt like you're missing something - this conversation will help you see the bigger picture. ✨ Want a grounded starting point? Download my free Prepare Your Horse For Any Environment checklist — the foundational framework I use with all horses to build confidence, clarity, and safety step by step. ✨ Want to explore more about flight and freeze responses? Find them on my Compassionate Horsemanship Playlist.  ✨ Looking for deeper support? This is the kind of layered work we explore inside The Field — my 3-month horsemanship mentorship experience for compassionate equestrians who want clarity, confidence, and a safer, more connected partnership with their horse. If you're ready for guidance, reflection, and personalised support while holding this complexity, you can learn more via my website or reach out directly. Connect with me:https://www.instagram.com/compassionate_horsemanship/ https://www.facebook.com/felicitydavieshorses/ https://www.felicitydavies.com.au/horses [email protected] Felicity 🤍