Buyer protection
Contents
Donkeys communicate primarily through their ears, head carriage, mouth, and tail. Their signals are often more subtle than those of horses – anyone who knows them will quickly understand whether a donkey is relaxed, curious, annoyed, or unsure. This guide shows the most important signals and what you should pay attention to when interacting with them.
The most important signals at a glance
| Signal | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Ears forward, head held high | attentive, interested |
| Ears loosely to the side, lower lip hanging | relaxed, dozing |
| One hind leg bent | resting posture |
| Ears flat back, neck stretched | threat, displeasure |
| Hindquarters turned toward you, tail swishing | warning – keep your distance |
| Opening the mouth and chewing in young animals | appeasement toward older animals |
| Upper lip pulled up | flehmen – intense smelling |
| Mutual grooming | bond, trust |
| Repeated braying | seeking contact, expectation, or excitement |
Ears: the mood indicator
The long ears are a donkey's most important signaling tool. They turn independently toward noises and show very directly what the donkey is focusing on. Ears laid flat are a clear warning signal. Learn more in Why do donkeys have such long ears?
Mouth and face
- Soft, drooping lower lip: Relaxation.
- Tense, narrow mouth: Tension or discomfort.
- Chewing and licking: Often a sign that the donkey is processing a situation.
- Wide-open eyes, visible whites: Fear or uncertainty.
Tail and hindquarters
A tail hanging quietly shows relaxation. If the tail swishes violently without flies being the cause, the donkey is annoyed. If it turns its hindquarters toward you, you should keep your distance: donkeys can kick out deliberately.
How donkeys communicate with each other
Donkeys live in stable relationships. Good friends stand close together, nuzzle each other's necks and withers, and eat side by side. Questions of rank are usually settled through glances, ears, and choice of space. Learn more in Why donkeys need company and Do donkeys have feelings?
Why donkeys often show very little discomfort
Donkeys are considered rather stoic: they often show discomfort less clearly than horses. Small changes are therefore important:
- standing apart from the group
- eating more slowly or leaving food behind
- appearing indifferent, head hanging low
- lying down noticeably more or shifting its weight
If you notice any such changes, it is worth having a prompt veterinary examination.
How to approach a donkey properly
- Approach quietly: From the front and side, not from behind.
- Give it time: Let the donkey sniff you before you touch it.
- Start at the neck: Many donkeys like gentle scratching on the neck and withers.
- Respect its signals: If it lays its ears back, give it space.
You can find tips for visiting a farm in Visiting a donkey farm.
Relaxed donkeys – the basis for donkey milk
Body language also plays a role in milking: A donkey only lets its milk flow when it is relaxed and its foal is with it. That is why our partner farms milk by hand, calmly and patiently. Learn more in How is donkey milk produced?
Calmly milked, carefully tested
Our donkey milk comes from European partner farms, is laboratory-tested in Germany, and delivered to you frozen.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if a donkey likes me?
It comes to you on its own, stands relaxed, lets itself be scratched, and may even follow you.
Why does a donkey lay its ears back?
Usually as a sign of displeasure or rejection. Give it space and observe what is bothering it.
Do donkeys bite?
Donkeys can bite, for example if they feel crowded or are competing for food. Respectful handling and clear rules help prevent this.
What does it mean when a donkey brays?
It is seeking contact, expecting something, or is excited. Learn more in Why do donkeys bray?
