Help - herd leader anxiety

[BBH]

One of my horses has rejoined his friends at home and has become a stress head again because he is the herd leader, he has fomed a really close bond with one friend in particular, and becomes really anxious if anyone else is taken away from the herd and also if he is taken away . He runs up and down the fence line calling and its upsetting to see him this way. Any suggestions gratefully received.

 

[Stacie_and_Jed]

Is he the same if you take him away from them? Sounds like he is a wee bit protective over his gang?

 

[BBH]

Yes he is unfortunately, if we have a lesson he mis behaves and won't concentrate, the same if we try and box up, he just plays up and won't load. Its like he feels responsible for everyone and worries when they are out of sight. He wasn't like this at this previous yard as another horse was the herd leader.

 

[Nari]

I can sympathise, Jim's just the same.

 

[Shilasdair]

Try feeding the other horse in the field whilst yours is in a lesson or whatever...just a bit of hay or something can take their mind off it...
Or try to alter the herd to get better herd dynamics?
S