SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/horse-not-behind-or-front

Which two spots should you avoid standing right next to a horse?

Directly behind it and directly in front of it.

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  1. Beside the shoulder
  2. Beside the neck
  3. Directly behind or in front ✔

Why: A horse can kick back or strike forward. These are also its blind spots, where it cannot see you. Stay close and keep a hand on the horse when you pass behind it.

Huh, didn't know that: Merck says horses can see almost 340 degrees around them without moving their heads, except small blind spots in front and behind.

The dad joke
What time do horses go to bed? At knight time.
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References

Answer: Directly behind or in front. A horse can kick back or strike forward. These are also its blind spots, where it cannot see you. Stay close and keep a hand on the horse when you pass behind it.

  1. Basic Horse Safety (Publication 852), Mississippi State University Extension 4h.extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/2024-02/P852.pdf
    Never stand directly behind a horse or directly in front of it.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. The 4-H Horse Project, Care and Management of the Horse (PNW 587-03) extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/default/files/2023-07/pnw587-03.pdf
    Carelessness is the leading cause of accidents
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  3. Description and Physical Characteristics of Horses, Merck Veterinary Manual (pet owner version) www.merckvetmanual.com/horse-owners/description-and-physical-characteristics-of-horses/description-and-physical-characteristics-of-horses
    they have small blind spots directly in front of and behind them.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  4. Basic Horse Safety (Publication 852), Mississippi State University Extension 4h.extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/2024-02/P852.pdf
    Stay close to your horse when you pass behind it.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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