Licking and chewing in horses are behaviors often associated with submission and relaxation. While these actions can indicate a horse is processing information and feeling more at ease, they are not always a direct sign of submission. Understanding these behaviors is crucial for horse owners and trainers to interpret equine body language accurately.
What Does Licking and Chewing Mean in Horses?
Licking and chewing in horses are commonly observed when a horse is transitioning from a state of tension to relaxation. These behaviors can suggest that the horse is processing information or has had a change in emotional state. It’s essential to consider the context in which these behaviors occur to understand their meaning fully.
- Contextual Clues: Horses often lick and chew after a period of stress or learning, indicating they are assimilating new information.
- Relaxation Signal: These actions can also be a sign that a horse is calming down after a tense situation, such as training or encountering new environments.
How to Interpret Licking and Chewing in Horses?
Understanding the nuances of horse behavior requires observing the broader context and the horse’s overall body language. Here are some key points to consider:
- Training Sessions: During training, licking and chewing can indicate that the horse is beginning to understand what is being asked.
- Environmental Changes: In new environments, these behaviors may show that the horse is acclimating and feeling more comfortable.
- Interaction with Other Horses: When interacting with other horses, licking and chewing can be part of social behavior, showing deference or submission.
Is Licking and Chewing Always a Sign of Submission?
While licking and chewing can suggest submission, particularly in social settings, they are not exclusively indicative of this. These behaviors can also be part of a horse’s natural response to stress reduction or learning.
When Does Licking and Chewing Indicate Submission?
- Social Hierarchy: In a herd, lower-ranking horses might lick and chew when approached by dominant horses, signaling submission.
- Human Interaction: During groundwork or training, a horse might exhibit these behaviors to show compliance or acceptance of leadership.
Practical Examples of Licking and Chewing
- Training Scenario: During a training session, a horse might initially resist a new command but start licking and chewing once it understands the task.
- New Surroundings: A horse introduced to a new paddock might lick and chew after exploring, indicating it is becoming comfortable.
Why Do Horses Lick and Chew After Stress?
Horses often lick and chew after stressful situations as part of their natural coping mechanisms. This behavior helps them transition from a heightened state of alertness to a more relaxed state.
- Stress Reduction: The act of licking and chewing can help reduce cortisol levels, promoting relaxation.
- Digestive Connection: Some theories suggest these actions might stimulate saliva production, aiding digestion and further reducing stress.
People Also Ask
What Are Other Signs of Relaxation in Horses?
In addition to licking and chewing, horses show relaxation through soft eyes, lowered heads, and slow blinking. These signs indicate a horse is at ease and comfortable in its environment.
Can Licking and Chewing Be Misinterpreted?
Yes, without considering the context, licking and chewing can be misinterpreted. Observing the horse’s overall body language and the situation is critical for accurate interpretation.
How Do Horses Communicate Submission?
Horses communicate submission through various behaviors, including lowering the head, turning away, and licking and chewing. These actions help maintain social harmony within the herd.
Is Licking and Chewing Related to Trust?
Licking and chewing can be related to trust, especially in training contexts. When a horse exhibits these behaviors, it may indicate that the horse feels safe and is beginning to trust the handler.
How Can Owners Encourage Relaxation in Horses?
Owners can encourage relaxation by providing a calm environment, consistent training routines, and positive reinforcement. Understanding and responding to a horse’s body language can also foster a trusting relationship.
Conclusion
Licking and chewing in horses are complex behaviors that often indicate relaxation and information processing, rather than direct submission. By observing the context and the horse’s overall body language, handlers can better understand these actions and respond appropriately. For those interested in learning more about horse behavior, exploring topics like equine body language and stress management can provide valuable insights.