Facial hair whorl location, behavior, and ocular temperature as a physiological stress indicator in young Pura Raza Española dressage horses.

Summary

# Editorial Summary Facial hair whorls—those distinctive spiral patterns on a horse's face—have long intrigued horsemen as potential indicators of temperament, yet scientific validation has remained limited. Researchers working with young Pura Raza Española dressage horses investigated whether whorl location correlated with measurable behavioural traits and physiological stress responses, using infrared thermography to objectively measure ocular temperature as a non-invasive stress marker. The findings establish a meaningful link between these anatomical features and both behavioural reactivity and thermal stress responses, providing practitioners with a tangible assessment tool that requires no invasive procedures. For those selecting or managing performance horses—particularly in dressage, where rideability and emotional consistency directly influence outcomes—whorl location assessment offers a practical screening method to identify stress-prone individuals early and tailor management protocols accordingly. Integration of thermographic assessment alongside traditional behavioural evaluation could enhance predictive accuracy when evaluating young stock, allowing farriers, veterinarians and trainers to make more informed decisions about individual conditioning, handling strategies, and suitability for specific disciplines.

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Key Findings

• •Facial hair whorl patterns correlate with behavioral traits and physiological stress responses in young Pura Raza Española dressage horses
• •Ocular temperature measured via infrared thermography provides an objective, non-invasive indicator of physiological stress in horses
• •Behavioral and emotional reactivity assessment is associated with variations in facial hair whorl location in dressage horses

Conditions Studied

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