Tongue Ties in Horses: Welfare Implications & Ethical Training of Racehorses

Tongue ties are devices commonly used in horse racing to restrict movement of a horse’s tongue to improve control and optimize upper airway function. Typically made from materials such as cloth, leather, or elastic, these devices are tied around the tongue and secured to the horse’s lower jaw or bit. ^[1][2]

While tongue ties are primarily used to prevent undesirable behaviors like moving the tongue over the bit, they have also been explored as a management tool for equine health conditions, such as dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP). ^[3]

Despite their widespread use, the application of tongue ties raises welfare concerns. These concerns include questions about the root causes of the behaviors they aim to address and whether tongue ties offer a sustainable solution or simply mask underlying issues.

While tongue ties may be effective for some horses, they may not work for others, particularly those with different anatomical features. The effectiveness of tongue ties, as well as their ethical implications in both competitive and therapeutic contexts, remains a topic of ongoing debate.

Tongue Ties in Horse Racing

A tongue tie is a device commonly used in equestrian sports, consisting of a strap or band designed to secure a horse’s tongue to its lower jaw or stabilize it in a fixed position. Typically made from materials such as leather, elastic, or fabric (including stockings), tongue ties are applied around the horse’s tongue and lower jaw.

In the racing industry, tongue ties are thought to provide several benefits. They prevent the horse’s tongue from flipping over the bit, enhance control, and limit tongue movement that might obstruct the airways. ^[2]

Such issues pose significant safety concerns for the horse, jockey, and other participants. As a result, the use of tongue ties has become routine in some racing stables.

Tongue Anatomy & Function

The horse’s tongue is a large, muscular, and flexible organ that plays key roles in grazing, swallowing, and interacting with the environment. Attached to the floor of the mouth and supported by the hyoid bone, it moves freely and is covered by a mucous membrane containing taste buds and papillae that help grip and manipulate food. ^[2]

During exercise, the tongue is involved in maintaining airflow while adapting to the constraints of equipment, such as the bit and bridle. Its position directly impacts upper airway function, especially when oxygen demands are high, such as during racing. ^[1]

Ideally, the tongue rests beneath the bit with minimal movement to support breathing and rider control. However, excessive movement, such as the horse’s attempts to dislodge the bit, can interfere with both performance and rider control.

Additionally, the tongue influences the soft palate and larynx. If the tongue slips or elevates abnormally, it can obstruct the airway, limiting oxygen intake. The pressure from bits and bridles can also cause discomfort, leading to behaviors such pulling the tongue over the bit as a compensatory response. ^[4]

Effects of Tongue Ties

Horses are obligate nasal breathers, meaning they breathe solely through their noses and cannot effectively breathe through their mouths. This adaptation allows horses to efficiently take in large volumes of air, which is crucial for performing strenuous activities, such as galloping at high speeds. ^[5][6]

Due to their reliance on nasal breathing, any obstruction or narrowing in the upper respiratory tract can significantly impair the horse’s ability to take in sufficient oxygen. This can lead to discomfort, breathlessness, and distress, particularly during exertion, when the demand for air is highest.

Impact of Tongue Movement Over the Bit

When a horse moves its tongue over the bit, several complications can arise. The rider can lose control over the bit, making them unable to communicate effectively through the reins. This results in less responsive steering and diminished overall control.

Additionally, if the tongue is over the bit it can restrict airflow, impacting the horse’s ability to breathe efficiently, particularly during intense exertion.

This may lead to: ^[4]

• Exercise intolerance
• Poor performance
• Discomfort or irritation in the mouth
• Stress

DDSP & “Flipping the Palate”

Dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) is a condition where the soft palate slips over the epiglottis, the membrane that protects the windpipe from feed, obstructing airflow in the upper airway.

Horses with oral conformation issues, such as a long or soft palate, or those with weak muscle tone in the soft palate, are more prone to DDSP. Other factors, such as excessive bit pressure or airway inflammation, can also contribute to its development. ^[5][7][8]

DDSP results in noisy breathing, often described as a “gurgling” or “choking” sound, and can lead to exercise intolerance and reduced performance, particularly during intense exertion. After the displacement, horses typically return the soft palate to its normal position by swallowing, and may appear normal during a resting endoscopic exam.

Tongue ties are sometimes used as a management tool for DDSP by stabilizing the tongue and limiting its movement. They are thought to help prevent the soft palate from displacing by maintaining the tongue in a fixed position, reducing pressure on the soft palate and minimizing the risk of airway obstruction. ^[3]

However, the use of tongue ties for DDSP is controversial. While they may provide temporary symptomatic relief for some horses, tongue ties do not address the root causes of DDSP, such as anatomical issues, weak muscle tone in the soft palate, or airway inflammation. ^[2][9][10]

Surgical interventions, such as the “tie-forward” procedure, offer a more permanent solution. This procedure involves repositioning the larynx and soft palate to prevent displacement during exercise and has a success rate of around 80%. It is often recommended for horses with recurrent or persistent DDSP, providing a long-term solution that is more comfortable and effective for the horse than tongue ties.  ^[3][11]

Welfare Concerns

The use of tongue ties in horses has generated welfare concerns due to their potential physical and mental effects on the horse. While primarily intended to improve control and performance, especially in racing, the practice raises ethical questions about the horse’s well-being.

A key concern is the discomfort or pain that tongue ties can cause by restricting the horse’s tongue movement. This can lead to irritation or injury to the tongue and surrounding tissues. In some areas where Standardbred racing takes place, the use of tongue ties is restricted during winter to prevent frostbite or other damage to the exposed tongue. ^[2]

The application of tongue ties in horses has been associated with increased indicators of stress, including agitated behaviors like head tossing and mouth gaping, as well as elevated cortisol levels in the saliva.

In one study, horses who had been tongue-tied in the past showed higher stress responses during the tongue tie application process, suggesting anticipation of the tongue tie as a negative event. This finding suggests tongue ties can cause stress and discomfort. ^[12]

Despite their widespread use in the racing industry, the evidence on the effectiveness of tongue ties in preventing conditions like dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) is inconsistent. While they are commonly applied, tongue ties are not effective for most horses. ^[3][7][8]

Tongue Movement as a Stress Response

Tongue movement in horses is often a stress response triggered by anxiety, pain or discomfort. Pressure or irritation in the mouth — whether from the bit or the rider’s hands — can cause the horse to move its tongue in an attempt to alleviate the discomfort. ^[6]

This behavior may manifest as moving the tongue over the bit, lolling or sucking the tongue, or incessantly chewing the bit. These actions typically signal stress or an effort to manage unpleasant sensations. ^[5]

If a horse plays with the bit during a race, it’s crucial to assess the root cause of the behavior. While a tongue tie might offer a temporary solution, addressing the underlying problem is key for long-term improvement of welfare and performance.

Potential causes include:

• Poor bit fit
• Dental issues
• Stress
• Other types of mouth pain

By identifying and resolving factors such as improper bit fit, excessive pressure, or inadequate training techniques, it’s possible to reduce stress responses and maintain the horse’s comfort and performance.

Tongue Ties in Equestrian Sport

Growing welfare concerns about the use of tongue ties in equine sports have prompted regulatory actions across various jurisdictions. In 2001, the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) began documenting the use of these devices in Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing. ^[2][9] These measures have been put in place to monitor use and impacts of the practice, but the IFHA has not made any larger policy updates regarding the use of tongue ties to date.

In 2004, the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) — which oversees international equestrian disciplines such as show jumping, dressage, and eventing — banned tongue ties in all performance horses under its jurisdiction.

The FEI ban cites ethical concerns about restricting a horse’s natural behavior and evidence linking tongue ties to airway and respiratory impairments. Although the FEI does not govern horse racing, its policy reflected a broader commitment to promoting horse welfare in competitive equestrian sport. ^[1][12]

Germany followed suit in 2018 with a complete ban on tongue ties in Thoroughbred racing. However, other regions, such as the United Kingdom, continue to permit their use, with approximately 5% of racehorses reportedly using tongue ties. ^[1][9]

Racing Australia introduced more specific regulations to address welfare concerns. Nylon stocking tongue ties were banned in Thoroughbred racing, and new rules require tongue ties to be at least 50mm wide to reduce the risk of tongue damage. In addition, tongue ties cannot be applied more than 30 minutes before a race. ^[13]

These measures aim to minimize potential harm while maintaining the practice under stricter oversight.

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Alternatives to Tongue Ties

There are several alternatives to tongue ties that can help address tongue movement and improve breathing efficiency in racing horses. These options aim to reduce discomfort, enhance performance, and support the horse’s welfare.

Surgical Intervention

For conditions like Dorsal Displacement of the Soft Palate (DDSP), surgical procedures such as the “tie-forward” technique offer a more permanent solution. This surgery repositions the horse’s soft palate and larynx to prevent displacement during exercise, improving airflow and reducing the need for mechanical aids like tongue ties. ^[11]

Specialized Bits

Bit design and material may impact the likelihood of a horse flipping their tongue. Some bits distribute pressure more evenly across the mouth than others, minimizing discomfort and improving communication between the horse and rider. ^[1][14]

Ensure the bit is the correct size and style for the horse’s mouth, as an ill-fitting bit can cause resistance and conflict behaviors. Regular dental checkups are essential to rule out underlying issues, such as tooth problems or ulcers, that may contribute to bit resistance.

Training Adjustments

Addressing anxiety or discomfort can reduce tongue movement. Training adjustments that may be effective include:

• Refining the rider’s handedness
• Improving bit fit
• Enhancing overall training of the horse

Training can serve as an effective alternative by focusing on eliminating excessive bit pressure, a common cause of tongue flipping. By releasing rein pressure when the horse responds correctly, riders can use negative reinforcement appropriately to enhance training responses. This creates a more predictable riding experience for the horse, which may reduce anxiety and lead the horse to relax their tongue without moving it over the bit. ^[6][15]

Key training strategies include:

• Avoiding prolonged pressure
• Ensuring proper bit and bridle fit
• Promoting a relaxed, low-stress training environment

Nasal Strips/Dilators

Nasal strips are adhesive devices designed for external application to the outside of the horse’s nostrils. They work by gently pulling open the nasal passages to reduce airway resistance, particularly at the nasal valve, the narrowest point of the nostrils. ^[10][16]

This helps improve airflow during exercise by preventing the nasal valve from collapsing, which can occur during intense activity. The strips are typically used in racing and other high-performance equine sports to promote breathing efficiency, reduce fatigue, and potentially lower the risk of exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about tongue ties in horse racing:

Summary

Tongue ties are used in horse racing to prevent the tongue from flipping over the bit and to improve jockey control and airway function. They are made from materials like cloth, leather, or elastic and secure the tongue to the lower jaw or bit.

• While tongue ties are also used to manage conditions like DDSP, their effectiveness and ethical concerns are debated
• Welfare concerns include stress, discomfort and restricted natural movement, leading to regulatory actions and bans in some areas
• Alternatives include surgical procedures, specialized bits, training adjustments, and nasal strips to improve breathing and reduce discomfort
• Some organizations have imposed regulations or bans on tongue ties to address welfare issues, including the FEI and Racing Australia