Why Do Horses Pull Their Lips Back?

#1 – Flehmen Response

The curling back of the upper lip (and often pulling their head back at the same time) helps activate an organ that allows horses to sense chemicals in the air, particularly pheromones. Horses are not the only animal that does this.

What does it mean when a horse lips?

Some horses flap their lips loudly when they are nervous or anxious, or anticipating an undesirable event. Recognize that a variety of lip movements can be considered normal, but that they might also signal anxiety or even a physical problem.

What does it mean when a horse flips his lip?

Healthy horses engage in this behavior in a variety of circumstances. Stallions perform the flehmen response when investigating or detecting a mare in heat. Many horses do this when they are introduced to a strange new taste or smell, especially after they are given oral medication or a new supplement.