Head Tossing — Causes & Fixes

Physical Causes — The Most Common

Dental Issues

Sharp points on the upper cheek teeth create ulcers on the inner cheek — and when a bit applies lateral pressure, it presses the cheek against those points, causing pain. Annual dental floating is essential for any horse in bit work. A horse that was fine and develops head tossing may simply need dentistry.

Bit Fit and Selection

A bit that is too wide hangs crooked in the mouth. Too narrow and it pinches. Wrong port height or shank angle for the horse's mouth anatomy — all of these create discomfort. Have a bit fitter or knowledgeable trainer evaluate the current bit, and consider a bit fit assessment before assuming the horse has a behavioral problem.

Poll Pain

Tension, misalignment, or pain at the poll (the bony prominence behind the ears where the headstall sits) can cause a horse to toss its head when pressure is applied through the reins. A vet or equine chiropractor should evaluate if dental and bit issues are ruled out.

Rider Hands

Stiff, unsteady, or actively pulling hands create constant pressure and release variation in the horse's mouth. A horse with genuinely uncomfortable hands will toss its head to try to escape the inconsistent contact. Video your riding and have an honest evaluation of your hand stability before blaming the horse.

When It Is a Training Issue

If all physical causes have been thoroughly ruled out and addressed, head tossing that persists may be a conditioned response — the horse has learned to toss its head when specific aids are applied, usually because that tossing previously created a release. This requires retraining through consistent, correct work — ideally with a trainer who can observe and correct the pattern in real time.