Why do horses do their lips back and lift head

When observing horses, it is not uncommon to notice them pulling their lips back and lifting their heads. This behavior can be intriguing and raise questions about why horses exhibit such actions. In this article, we will explore ten possible reasons behind horses doing their lips back and lifting their heads, shedding light on this fascinating equine behavior.

1. Communication and Body Language

One possible reason for horses pulling their lips back and lifting their heads is to communicate with other horses or humans. Horses possess a complex system of body language, and these particular gestures are often used to convey various messages:

Firstly, pulling the lips back can indicate contentment or relaxation. When a horse feels comfortable and at ease, it may use this expression as a way to communicate its state of mind.

On the other hand, lifting the head can signify attentiveness or alertness. Horses may adopt this posture to gather information from their surroundings or to show that they are ready to react to any potential threats.

In summary, the lips-back and head-lifting gestures serve as essential elements of equine communication, allowing horses to convey their emotions and intentions.

2. Scent and Smell Detection

Horses have an exceptional sense of smell, and they often use it to explore and identify scents in their environment. The act of pulling their lips back allows horses to expose the vomeronasal organ, also known as the Jacobson's organ, which is located in the roof of their mouths.

By lifting their heads and pulling their lips back, horses can draw in air enriched with scents. This allows them to detect and analyze various odors, such as pheromones released by other horses or the scent of nearby food sources. Through this behavior, horses gain valuable information about their surroundings and potential mates.

3. Taste Evaluation

Another reason for horses doing their lips back and lifting their heads is to evaluate the taste of their food or other substances. Horses have sensitive taste buds, particularly on the underside of their lips.

By lifting their heads, they can better position the food or substance on their tongue, facilitating taste evaluation. Pulling the lips back allows the horse to expose the taste buds located on the inside of their mouths, enabling them to gather more accurate information about the flavor of what they are consuming.

This behavior is especially noticeable when horses encounter new or unfamiliar food, as they take extra time to assess its taste and determine if it is safe to consume.

4. Discomfort or Pain

Horses may also pull their lips back and lift their heads in response to discomfort or pain. This behavior is often observed when a horse is experiencing dental issues, such as tooth sensitivity or the presence of dental abnormalities.

The act of lifting the head and pulling the lips back can provide temporary relief or alleviate pressure in the mouth, offering a distraction from the discomfort. If you notice your horse consistently displaying this behavior, it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying dental problems.

In cases where pain originates from other sources, such as an injury or an ill-fitting saddle, horses may exhibit similar behaviors as a means of coping or expressing their discomfort.

5. Curiosity and Investigation

Horses are naturally curious animals, and their inclination to explore their surroundings may lead them to exhibit the lips-back and head-lifting behavior.

When horses encounter an unfamiliar object or situation, they may cautiously lift their heads and pull their lips back to gain a better view and assess the potential threat level. By adopting this posture, horses can gather more visual information and make informed decisions about the next course of action.

This behavior can frequently be observed when horses are introduced to new environments, obstacles, or novel items within their surroundings.

6. Expressing Dominance

Within herds or social groups, horses establish a social hierarchy through displays of dominance. The lips-back and head-lifting behavior can be a way for horses to assert their authority and establish their position within the group.

By pulling their lips back and lifting their heads, horses may appear more intimidating and confident. This display of dominance can deter other horses from approaching too closely or challenging their position within the hierarchy.

It is important to note that while this behavior is seen in social contexts, not all horses exhibit it, and the display of dominance varies among individuals and breeds.

7. Habit or Personal Quirk

Just like humans have individual quirks or habits, horses can also possess unique behaviors that are simply part of their nature or personality.

Some horses may develop a habit of periodically pulling their lips back and lifting their heads without any specific reason. This behavior becomes ingrained in their routine and does not necessarily indicate any underlying issue or intention.

These individual quirks can add to the charm and diversity found within the equine world. They are part of what makes each horse unique.

8. Excitement or Anticipation

When horses become excited or anticipate something enjoyable, they may display the lips-back and head-lifting behavior as a physical response to heightened emotions.

This behavior is commonly observed when horses are offered a favorite treat, are about to engage in physical exercise, or are anticipating interaction with humans or other horses.

Lips-back and head-lifting can be seen as a form of excitement or happy anticipation, illustrating the horse's eagerness and readiness for a positive experience.

9. Training and Behavior Conditioning

In some cases, horses learn to exhibit the lips-back and head-lifting behavior through training and behavior conditioning.

Trainers may use specific cues or methods to teach horses to adopt this posture, either for showmanship purposes or as part of certain disciplines, such as dressage or halter classes.

Horses that have undergone such training may display the behavior in response to previously learned commands or cues from their handlers.

10. Natural Response to Rein Pressure

When ridden with a bit, horses may naturally respond to rein pressure by pulling their lips back and lifting their heads. This behavior can occur as a reaction to the bit's presence in their mouths and the pressure applied through the reins.

While this response is not exhibited by all horses, it is a common occurrence, particularly in those who have been trained to respond to subtle rein cues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there any health issues associated with horses pulling their lips back and lifting their heads?

A: In most cases, this behavior is harmless and simply a natural part of the horse's communication repertoire. However, if the behavior is accompanied by other concerning signs, such as weight loss, difficulty eating, or resistance to bridling, it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.

Q: Can horses be trained to stop this behavior?

A: While it is possible to modify certain behaviors through training, it is important to consider the underlying reasons behind the behavior before attempting to alter it. If the behavior is a result of discomfort or pain, addressing the root cause is crucial. However, if the behavior is harmless and merely a personal quirk, it may be best to let the horse exhibit this behavior naturally.

Q: Are there any horse breeds more prone to exhibiting this behavior?

A: The lips-back and head-lifting behavior can be observed in horses of various breeds and is not exclusive to any particular type. However, certain breeds, such as Arabians and Thoroughbreds, are known for their expressive nature and may exhibit this behavior more prominently.