Horses are a well known herd animal and they are most happy surrounded by their own kind. While this is a true fact, there are many situations in which a horse is by itself. A huge factor is some owners are only able to own one horse at a time. Horses can be alone and some actually do prefer it that way, but they can get lonely. If you notice your horse acting a little blue, it may be worth finding them another suitable companion. There are many great options out there to give your horse a friend.

In other cases, a horse may need a smaller stall mate in the event that they start to loose vision. Many people have resorted to getting another animal to put in with their horse who is going blind or already is blind. They do help tremendously and it is amazing to see the bond between animals. While some horses will not tolerate a companion, some love the idea and it can turn that horse's life around. It is always important to test things and be there to observe when adding a new friend for safety precautions. Let's take a look at the top friends for horses!

1. Other equine species 

Sometimes horses do love being in together and they get along. Other times, they can be bossy with each other or even aggressive, so this may not be the answer for your particular horse. Many people get miniature horses as companions for their regular sized horse. You see it all the time with race horses, rodeo horses, and more. I just got back from a big barrel race in Oklahoma and there were ponies everywhere that travel with their horse companions and keep them calm. Another great option is a donkey or even miniature donkey. Horses relate to them and they seem to do a great job at comforting. 

Other equine animals are great for horses who have vision problems. You can train them with bells and really help make a difference for a blind horse. It also helps if it is another horse so the smell is familiar and comforting. 

2. Goats 

Goats are a very popular choice for horse companions. They are goofy and funny, but horses seem to take a liking to them. They are also herd animals with similar attitudes and habits. Goats are very comforting and they are just so easy going. They are also pretty low maintenance and they tend to not be confrontational. 

However, some horses are freaked out by goats. What works for one horse, may not work for yours. This always makes me think of the movie Seabiscuit. If you haven't seen it, you should. This racehorse is very aggressive in the beginning and they try all kinds of animals to calm him down. Naturally, they try a goat first. The goat ends up getting thrown out of the stall and it takes off running. Seabiscuit was not a fan to say the least. It is just important to take your time and figure out the best match. 

3. Dogs

If a dog and horse get along with each other, it can be one of the best companions around. There are many dogs and horses who do not agree with one another and it can be dangerous. However, there are a few horses out there that love dogs and vice versa. Dogs are great protectors and they can be very comforting to a horse. They can guard the horse and be a loving friend also. 

4. Cats 

Cats are another popular choice for horse companions. Cats love to curl up with horses and they have such a relaxed demeanor. Horses love playing with their tails and nuzzling their fur. There are some horses who do not like cats, but cats pretty much do their own thing and come and go as they please. I would say it wouldn't be a good option for a horse who is blind, but as a healthy horse, a cat can be a great friend. 

5. Cows 

There are many horses who just enjoy being in a pen of cows. They are both herd animals and enjoy grazing. You will see many ranches or farmers in the area have their horse out in a field of cows. Cows are also pretty relaxed and can provide a lot of comfort. It can also give the horse a more herd like feeling if there are multiple cows with them. There are some horses who either don't like cows or they are too rough on them. Some cows are not ok with horses and can challenge them. It is just important to make sure they don't harm each other.   

6. Humans 

Horses absolutely love being loved by their human. Even though we can't spend every second with them, I wish we could, but it is important to spend quality time with them. You don't have to be riding, sometimes just being out there with them is enough to make their day. There's days I will just take a chair out and go sit with my horses. It not only makes them feel special, but it is super relaxing for you as well. 

(picture credit: https://pictures-of-cats.org/cat-and-horse-pictures.html/cat-and-horse-1)