Horse behaviour question

Cowpony

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OK, really basic, obvious question, but one which has perplexed me all my riding life. I'm hoping you knowledgeable people will know. When two horses touch noses and sniff each other, one will eventually squeal and jerk its head back. There seems to be sign of aggression in the interaction. No ears back, head movements or attempts to bite. So why does one horse always do this? And how do they decide which one does it? My observation is that it's normally the horse lower in the herd dynamic who will squeal, but I may be wrong.

Completely pointless question but I'm fascinated by the cause/behaviour!
 
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