Owner-perceived behaviour in thoroughbred horses in secondary careers – A pilot study

With a substantial number of horses entering and leaving the racing industry annually, there is a need to develop techniques to improve the success of thoroughbreds transitioning into secondary careers. While studies focusing on horse wellbeing and traceability post racing are increasing, there is still a paucity of information in this area. Despite this knowledge gap, preconceived ideas that a majority of thoroughbreds display dangerous and erratic behaviors remains a point of contention in the equine industry. With ex-racehorses typically stereotyped by those outside the racing industry as possessing unsuitable temperaments leading to undesirable behaviors, questions often arise as to whether these characteristics may pose as a problem for thoroughbreds transitioning into alternate equine disciplines. The aim of this study was to investigate whether owner-perceived behavioral differences exist between thoroughbreds (i.e. horses typically bred for gallop racing) and horses bred for other disciplines in which thoroughbreds often enter as a secondary career. This information will help aid in the development and modification of programs seeking to place thoroughbreds into the most suitable careers upon racing retirement. Data were acquired through an online, internationally accessible owner questionnaire. Respondents provided basic information on their horse including breed, sex, year of birth and current discipline, along with owner-perceived information on their horse’s behavior. Analyses considered behavioral data on 313 horses, from multiple breeds, across four main disciplines; dressage, eventing, show jumping and recreational riding. Although significant differences (p