Head Tossing or Throwing
Look at the signal, then look at the whole horse and the situation around it.
NOTICE
The horse makes a noticeable upward, sideways, or backward movement of the head. It may happen once, occasionally, or in response to a particular moment.
- A quick upward toss
- A sideways throw of the head
- A larger movement during handling or riding
- A movement linked to rein contact, insects, frustration, or discomfort
WHAT IT MAY TELL YOU
Head tossing can occur with irritation, excitement, conflict, frustration, insects, handling or equipment pressure, physical discomfort, or other situational triggers.
DON'T ASSUME
Head tossing does not automatically mean disobedience, attitude, pain, or a neurological problem.
LOOK AGAIN
When does it happen? Is it linked to bridling, rein contact, touching the ears or face, insects, movement, exercise, or a particular environment? Does it stop when the situation changes?
Related Questions
Why does my horse shake or toss their head when bridled?
Look closely at timing. Does it happen when the bridle appears, when the ears are touched, when the bit enters the mouth, after the bridle is on, or during rein contact? Possible contributors include anticipation, sensitivity, equipment fit, oral or dental discomfort, neck discomfort, insects, or learned avoidance. Do not assume it is simply bad behavior.
Research / Learn More
What research shows
Head tossing and repeated head-position changes appear in equine discomfort and ridden-horse pain research, but they can also occur for non-pain reasons. Timing and repetition are therefore important.
What it does not tell us
An occasional head toss cannot diagnose pain or identify its cause.
Sources
- Equine Discomfort Ethogram — describes several forms of head tossing and flipping observed with discomfort.
- Application of a Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram — includes repeated head-position changes and tossing among behaviors assessed in ridden horses.