[Woodhaven]

when working with a horse I don't know well I like to maintain my bubble and establish ground rules.
with my own horses I make it clear that they have to respect my space and am consistent with this until they are clear and understand it. As we live together and progress with our relationship things can change as I know and trust the horse and allow them to move closer to me and we can both relax with each other and if the horse moves over and nudges me I allow it as I know it won't go any further, often they are just trying to get my attention and I listen to them.
If you know your horse well you can really communicate with them.

 

[Woodhaven]

My niece's horse just LOVES to have his ears and forehead rubbed, if you happen to stop outside his stall for a minute, you will feel a light nudge on your shoulder, there he is asking for an ear rub. You just can't say no to him as he loves it so much but I guess we are making a habit but he does know when to stop when it is time to work or do something.
It is just that he is such a people person, will even stop to chat when turned out and heading for the pasture.