Horses are social animals that can suffer from isolation. When conspecific companions are unavailable, other species including donkeys, goats, and dogs can provide meaningful companionship benefits.
Horse social welfare is a genuine need rather than a luxury, and isolation causes measurable welfare harm through chronic stress and the development of abnormal behaviours. While conspecific companionship is ideal, cross-species bonds can provide meaningful welfare benefits when same-species companions are unavailable or impractical. The welfare value of equine companionship depends on the quality of the bond formed, and not all inter-species combinations are successful. Careful introduction management, monitoring of social interaction quality, and ensuring that companion animals themselves have their welfare needs met are all important considerations. Progressive yard management should aim to ensure no horse is kept in permanent isolation, using creative solutions including companion animals when full horse herd environments are not possible.