Relaxed lower lip

The lower lip hangs loose and sometimes slightly down. Usually relaxation or dozing.

Relaxed lower lip: The lower lip hangs loose and sometimes slightly down. Usually relaxation or dozing.
Read the combination and the context. Always read this signal together with the rest of the body and the situation.

What you see

The lower lip is slack and droops a little, sometimes showing the gum. The chewing muscles and the muzzle are loose.

What it can mean

  • Deep relaxation or dozing, often with a low head and half-closed eyes.
  • Rest after effort or drowsing in the sun.
  • In some horses, a habitual posture while being groomed on a favourite spot.

What this does not prove

A hanging lower lip is no proof of happiness, and a slack lip on a dull, unresponsive horse can be worrying. A suddenly drooping lip on one side can point to a nerve problem.

Read the combination and the context

Distinguish a loose lip on a horse that is otherwise relaxed and dozing from a slack or crooked lip on a horse that is dull or unresponsive. Watch the symmetry of the face.

When to seek help

A sudden drooping or crooked lip, especially on one side, together with dullness or trouble eating, should be looked at by a vet.

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

Tense mouthLicking and chewingYawningTest your knowledge in the quizAll signals

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