Is it positive or negative when the horse chews on the bit during riding?

Hello! A horse chewing on the bit can have several explanations, and it also depends on how the horse does it. Generally, though, it is a negative sign. People used to say that a horse chews on the bit when it is working correctly, but that is not true. In many cases it is more a way of getting away from the pressure in the mouth. Many horses find the pressure on the tongue uncomfortable, for example, and chewing on the bit is regarded as a conflict behaviour that redistributes the pressure and spares the tongue.

As I say, there can be other explanations too, but if your horse always or often chews on the bit, especially when you have a rein contact with the mouth, it usually points to something negative for the horse. During riding or training, you want the horse to keep its mouth as closed and still as possible.

If your horse chews on the bit repeatedly, it can be worth having an equine dentist out to check that all is well in the mouth, and also worth looking at a different option that the horse is happier with.

Good luck, and do get in touch if you have any more questions! ☺️