A systematic review of equine personality
Authors: E. Rankins, C. Wickens
Journal: Applied Animal Behaviour Science
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Equine Personality—Genetics, Environment and Assessment Personality in horses carries substantial practical significance for injury prevention, training efficacy, human–animal relationships and breeding decisions, yet assessment methods and underlying personality structures remain inconsistent across the scientific literature. Rankins and Wickens conducted a systematic review of 113 peer-reviewed articles examining the genetic basis, environmental modification, and measurement tools for equine personality traits. Their analysis revealed clear evidence that breed differences and heritability estimates support a genetic foundation for personality, though specific genes and genetic markers have only been identified for a limited number of traits; concurrently, maternal experience, housing conditions and training practices demonstrably modify personality expression, though the timing and durability of these environmental effects remain poorly characterised. Assessment approaches vary considerably—from direct behavioural observation during standardised tests to questionnaires, endocrine and cardiac measurements—with reactivity, gregariousness, and sensory sensitivity among the most commonly evaluated traits, yet no consensus framework for personality structure exists across studies. For practitioners seeking to use personality assessment for selection, training or management purposes, the authors emphasise the importance of selecting validated measurement methods appropriate to your specific aims and resources, whilst researchers must carefully control for confounding variables such as prior experience and housing history that substantially influence behavioural expression independent of underlying personality traits.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Understanding that personality is partly genetic but highly modifiable through early experience and handling means targeted breeding combined with consistent early training can improve temperament and reduce injury risk.
- •When assessing your horse's personality or behavior problems, consider both genetic predisposition and environmental factors (previous handling, housing, dam influence) as both contribute significantly to the expression you see.
- •Be aware that personality assessment methods vary widely without standardization—when interpreting temperament evaluations or breed comparisons, ask about the specific assessment tool used and whether it's been validated.
Key Findings
- •Equine personality has a demonstrated genetic basis evidenced by breed differences and heritability estimates, with opportunities to identify specific genes for targeted breeding programs.
- •Environmental factors including dam experience, housing conditions, and training/handling methods modify personality expression, though timing and duration of these effects remain understudied.
- •Personality assessment methods include direct observation, behavioral/endocrine/cardiac/temperature measurement during tests, questionnaires, or combinations thereof, with no consistent unifying personality structure across studies.
- •Reactivity, gregariousness, human-reactivity, sensory sensitivity, and locomotor activity are frequently assessed traits, but confounding variables and measurement validation require greater attention in research.