The Horse Forum banner
Cancel

Licking and chewing?

8959 Views 6 Replies 5 Participants Last post by  Hidalgo13, 
Hidalgo13
So I was grooming this mare at my barn and when I finished I went over to her head and started to rub/massage it gently. She stayed still and seemed to greatly enjoy it. She then lowered her head a few inches, making it easier for me to rub her forehead, and then... she started to lick and chew! :D
This has happened to me before with another horse while rubbing and massaging her, but this time I was doing it on her neck and near her ears. She actually lowered her head rather low, blew out, did what sounded like a small nicker or something, and a bit later she started to lick and chew...

I know this is a good sign but what does it mean? I am really curious to know! I know when you do join up it's the sign they accept you as a leader and want to come in with you, but I don't think it means quite exactly that in this circumstance.

Thanks!
Save
Like
Status
Not open for further replies.
1 - 1 of 7 Posts
mbender
Let me tell you that licking and chewing is not a sign of accepting you as leader. Lowering the head is. Licking and chewing is a horses way of thinking and understanding what you want. So, I am not sure what, at that time, she was thinking of. Maybe she is beginning to relax and feel she can trust you.

Still, no matter, its a great feeling when a horse shows signs of accepting you as something she can trust in. This is just my opinion and what I've learned.
Posted via Mobile Device
Save
Like
1 - 1 of 7 Posts
Status
Not open for further replies.
The Horse Forum
A forum community dedicated to horse owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about breeding, grooming, reviews, health, behavior, housing, adopting, care, classifieds, and more!
Full Forum Listing
Explore Our Forums
Horse Talk Training, Performance, discussion, problem queries Horse Health Horse Tack, blankets and Equipment Queries General Off Topic Questions & Discussion
Top