Ears sideways or relaxed

The ears hang loosely to the side. Often a sign of rest, sometimes of dozing, sometimes of not feeling well.

Ears sideways or relaxed: The ears hang loosely to the side. Often a sign of rest, sometimes of dozing, sometimes of not feeling well.
Read the combination and the context. Always read this signal together with the rest of the body and the situation.

What you see

The ear shells point loosely to the side or slightly down, without a clear focus. Ear movements are slow.

What it can mean

  • Relaxation and rest, for example while dozing or drowsing.
  • Neutral attention that is not fixed on any one point.
  • With a low, hanging head and half-closed eyes: light sleep or simply drifting off.

What this does not prove

Loose ears do not always mean contentment. Slack ears hanging low and sideways together with a tight face can also point to dullness, exhaustion or pain.

Read the combination and the context

Note the face and the overall posture. Soft eyes, a relaxed lower lip and a resting leg belong with rest. A tight eye area or a withdrawn, motionless stance calls for a closer look.

When to seek help

If a horse often stands listless with ears hanging sideways and barely responds to its surroundings, have its health and welfare assessed.

This section helps you observe; it does not diagnose. Behaviour alone does not prove pain or illness. New or clear signs of pain and unexplained changes in behaviour should be assessed by a veterinarian.

Discover more

Ears forwardEars turned backEars pinned flatTest your knowledge in the quizAll signals

Sources: McDonnell, S. (2003), University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (New Bolton Center) · World Horse Welfare.