When a horse licks and chews around you, it often indicates that the horse is relaxed, processing information, and feeling comfortable in your presence. This behavior can be seen as a sign of trust and acceptance, suggesting that the horse is calm and at ease.
Why Do Horses Lick and Chew?
Horses exhibit licking and chewing behaviors for several reasons, often related to their emotional and physical state. Understanding these behaviors can enhance your interactions with them.
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Relaxation and Stress Release: Licking and chewing are often observed when a horse is transitioning from a state of tension to relaxation. This behavior can occur after a training session or during a quiet moment, indicating the horse is processing what it has learned and is beginning to relax.
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Digestive Processes: Horses naturally lick and chew as part of their digestive processes. When they are grazing or eating, the saliva produced aids in digestion. However, when this behavior occurs without food, it’s usually more about mental processing than digestion.
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Social Interaction: In a herd, horses use licking and chewing as part of their social interactions. When a horse licks and chews around you, it might be treating you as part of its herd, indicating a level of comfort and trust.
What Does Licking and Chewing Mean in Training?
In the context of horse training, licking and chewing can be particularly meaningful. It often signifies that the horse is absorbing and understanding new information or commands.
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Learning and Understanding: During training, when a horse licks and chews, it may be a sign that it is processing new information. This behavior is a positive indicator that the horse is mentally engaged and learning.
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Agreement and Compliance: Often, when a horse is asked to perform a task and subsequently licks and chews, it can be interpreted as a sign of compliance and willingness to cooperate.
How to Respond When a Horse Licks and Chews
Knowing how to respond to this behavior can strengthen your bond with the horse and enhance training outcomes.
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Positive Reinforcement: Reward the horse with gentle strokes or a treat to reinforce positive behavior and encourage further relaxation and trust.
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Patience and Observation: Allow the horse time to process information. If a horse licks and chews, give it a moment before proceeding with the next step in training.
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Maintain a Calm Environment: Ensure that the surroundings are calm and non-threatening to support the horse’s comfort and ability to focus.
Common Misinterpretations
While licking and chewing are generally positive signs, they can be misinterpreted without considering the context.
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Not Always a Sign of Submission: Some people mistakenly believe that licking and chewing are signs of submission. However, these behaviors are more accurately associated with processing and relaxation.
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Context Matters: Always consider the broader context, including the horse’s body language and the situation, to accurately interpret licking and chewing behaviors.
Related Questions
What Does It Mean If a Horse Nibbles on You?
When a horse nibbles on you, it could be exploring or expressing affection. However, ensure it doesn’t become a habit that leads to biting. It’s essential to set boundaries to prevent potentially dangerous behavior.
Why Do Horses Yawn?
Horses yawn as a way to release tension or express relaxation. It can also occur when they are tired or bored. Frequent yawning might indicate discomfort or stress, so observe for any additional signs of distress.
How Can You Tell If a Horse Is Relaxed?
Signs of a relaxed horse include a lowered head, soft eyes, relaxed ears, and a calm demeanor. Licking and chewing often accompany these signs, indicating the horse is comfortable and at ease.
What Are Other Signs of Stress in Horses?
Stress in horses can manifest through behaviors such as tail swishing, ear pinning, teeth grinding, and restlessness. Recognizing these signs can help address the underlying causes and improve the horse’s well-being.
How Do You Build Trust with a Horse?
Building trust with a horse involves consistent and gentle handling, providing positive experiences, and respecting their space. Over time, these actions foster a strong, trusting relationship.
Conclusion
Understanding what it means when a horse licks and chews around you can significantly enhance your relationship with the animal. This behavior typically indicates relaxation, learning, and trust. By responding appropriately and considering the context, you can support the horse’s mental and emotional well-being, leading to more effective training and a stronger bond. For more insights into horse behavior, consider exploring topics like equine body language and effective horse training techniques.