Reactivity to humans and fearfulness tests: Field validation in Polish Cold Blood Horses

摘要: a b s t r c The aim of the present paper was to examine in field conditions feasibility exper- imentally developed behavioural tests for assessment two temperamental traits cold blood horses: fearfulness and reactivity humans. predictive, convergent dis- criminant validity evaluated. Fifty-three Polish Cold Blood Horses (CBHs) were tested with battery involving passive active contact humans, handling, startling, novel object surface tests. behaviour horses real, on-farm evaluated caretaker's questionnaire (CQ). demonstrated that non-startling unforced human manipulations willingly accepted by horses. In contrast, more reluctant interact spontaneously humans showed longer persistence withdrawal reaction when presented startling stimulus or restrained. CQ confirmed common opinion calmness, patience good manageability CBHs. results correlated scores derived from factor anal- ysis CQ. Moreover, majority measures within (median rs = 0.56) fear 0.41). Thus, predictive con- vergent employed has been confirmed. However, also 0.36), therefore discriminant used not Therefore, we suggest parameters designed measure separate traits: fearfulness, measured fact avoidance potential harm behaviour. Although selection work-appropriate is almost nonexistent nowadays, conclude are still predisposed disciplines equi- tation driving, which demand an easy handle horse. Nonetheless, recommend testing approving breeding. For this purpose, can confirm usefulness experimentally general