Experimental and survey research studies conducted within the past 15 years have provided a wealth of knowledge regarding the potential causal factors involved in crib-biting behavior. This information has been used extensively to help increase the awareness within the equine community on how the routine management of horses can affect their behavior and welfare. These studies have also given professionals engaged in the study of equine behavior a framework from which to generate additional hypotheses and research questions related to the development and continued performance of crib-biting behavior. Some of the specific areas meriting additional investigation include the use of learning tasks in assessing the role of brain function and further study of the gastrointestinal environment in crib-biting horses, application of genetic techniques to identify specific genes involved in the behavior, the potential interactions between genetics and management, and the role of observational learning in the performance of crib-biting behavior. Ethologists and welfare scientists should continue to seek a multidisciplinary approach to address questions related to crib-biting behavior, including the use of behavioral and physiological measures, as well as application of epidemiological research methods. Furthermore, collaboration among equine scientists is encouraged to facilitate knowledge and resource sharing.