sticking out her tongue

[Kcdives]

Folks: My mare is developing a habit of sticking her tongue out of the side of her mouth. She has always done it a little bit, but it is getting more and more frequent. She's a five year old and I'm riding her in a snaffle. She's not putting her tongue over the bit. When I'm working her, she's fine, but when I stop and relax, loose rein, letting her stretch her neck, she'll stick about 6" of her tongue out the side of her mouth (both sides).

Any ideas on how I can get her to keep her tongue in her mouth?

[CarolU]

Good heavens, that is a GREAT sign of a contented and 'thinking' horse. You might have the vet check for dental causes, but after ruling them out, I'd be happy my horse is happy!

[Mystic Fire]

My gelding has a tendancy to do this. He even sucks on his tounge. I also know of several TWHs and TBs that do this. It releases endorphins.
I agree with having her teeth checked, and then see if there is something in your schooling or riding routine that might be "stressing" her. But then it could be that she has taught herself how to do this and now she's "hooked on it" because it makes her feel good.
D.

[FreezeMark]

My stallion does this.. more than that he wants you to RUB his tongue and if you don't and are within reach he will rub it on you....after getting it nice and soppy and wet again of course ;)

http://www.century-oak.com/pictures/jasoor/truelove.jpg

[moonrize]

If you plan on showing, this is not a habit you want to encourage. Give the horse something he can play with IN his mouth - either rollers or keys or even a weighted bit that he has to pick up and actually carry instead of just let hang.