head nodding

[mary duff]

i have a x-tb mare, she has a tendancy to nod her head while in the stable, can anyone help

what could it be ?

is it something to worry about ?

[CMR]

I'm not exactly sure what you're talking about. It's probably nothing the worry about. It's probably because she is bored, or wants attention, or if it's just a slight nod, she may be "nodding" off to sleep ;) and then waking up.

[horsey_woman]

Could it be weaving?

[mary duff]

well she nods her head when she puts it outside the stable door, its like shaking her head up and down and from side to side, but does not do it when she is out of the stable,

what is weaving?

[horsey_woman]

Found on the web...

What is Weaving?

Weaving is swinging the head and neck from side to side, rocking on the front feet. It may result in excessive wear of the front shoes. In a few cases the horse rocks from side to side to relieve the weight on painful feet. This unnatural behavior can also put a strain on the joints and tendons.

Weaving is traditionally controlled by placing a V-shaped grille on the stable door to stop the movement of the head and neck. It may reduce weaving slightly but can make horses more stressed.

Weaving latest research:

Over three years ago Daniel Mills BVSc M.R.C.V.S. initiated research into the causes of weaving and associated behaviour such as nodding and head threats.

During this time he has carried out observations in scientifically controlled environments at the University of Lincoln's Equine Welfare and Behaviour department to identify what causes weaving and how we can help alleviate it.


Weaving and associated behaviours are not caused as previously thought, by boredom. Neither are they 'learnt or copied; the reason several horses on the same yard demonstrate the same behaviour is that they are exposed to the same environment.

Weaving, nodding and head threatening behaviours are caused by frustration, stress or anxiety. Alleviate those problems and you will have a happier, more relaxed horse.

It has been found that placing a mirror in the stable helps.. not a human one (as the horse can smash it) but a special horse one.