How to Introduce a New Horse to the Herd

Just Put Them Together

There are a few schools of thought about introducing a new member to a larger herd. Many people simply put the new horse in with the others and let them sort things out for themselves. Quite often this works, and occasionally it does not. It usually works best with horses that are known to be followers and not herd leaders. Some horses, often the newcomers, will end up with bite marks or get kicked in any scuffles that may transpire.

As long as everyone has lots of room to get out of the way, the herd usually settles in with a minimum of fuss and the new member takes its "assigned" position in the herd pecking order without question. If the newcomer is very assertive and feels it should become the new leader, it may take time for everyone to settle into the new order.

It's important to keep a watchful eye, to separate the new herd member if necessary, before a horse gets hurt. There is the occasional mix that just doesn't work and some horses—often those who are quite dominant—can't live with new herd mates safely.

Mix Gently

Some horse owners choose to introduce a new member to the herd gradually. This includes keeping the horse within view, but not within touching distance of the existing herd. After they've had a chance to smell and see each other from afar, they can be moved closer together in neighboring paddocks.

 This can be tricky, as putting them together can mean they decide to strike out at each other, bite, or kick through the fence. Again, a watchful eye is required to make sure that any scuffles don't result in injury. The duration for which they are exposed to each other can be increased slowly until they are quiet and used to each other.