The origins of behavioural problems in the competition mare can be divided into reproductive and non-reproductive causes. This article will predominantly focus on reproductive and hormonal causes, however, it is important to resist the temptation to always blame ‘hormones’ as the cause of poor performance in mares.

Behavioural problems in competition mares and fillies can be frustrating and challenging to deal with. They often inhibit a mare from focusing on the task at hand, preventing her from reaching her full performance potential.