We’ve all heard horse “facts” that sound too good to be true. Turns out, many of them are. Whether you’re new to the barn or a lifelong equestrian, chances are you’ve believed at least one of these myths at some point. Let’s bust some of the biggest misconceptions galloping around the horse world.
1. Horses Sleep Standing Up All the Time
False. Yes, horses can sleep standing up thanks to a special locking mechanism in their legs. But here’s the kicker: they only get deep, REM sleep when lying down.
Just like us, they need true rest to stay mentally and physically healthy. So if you see your horse sprawled out in the paddock? Let ‘em snooze!
2. All White Horses Are Albino
Nope! True albino horses don’t exist.
What we often call “white horses” are usually gray horses who have lightened over time or rare genetically white horses with pink skin. Albino would mean zero pigment at all—including in the eyes—and horses with red or pink eyes simply aren’t naturally occurring.
3. You Can Tell a Horse’s Age by Its Teeth Exactly
Kind of… but not really.
While teeth can give a general idea of age, especially in younger horses, older horses are trickier. After around age 10, wear patterns vary so much based on diet, environment, and genetics that it becomes a guessing game — even for experienced vets.
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