Advice getting bridle on huge youngster evading the bit

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Calico1

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Hi, I have a young ID who's rising 4 and already standing at 17 hands, thing is that I'm 5"4 and this mare just puts her head in the air which is way out of my reach. Even standing on something I can't reach and this is becoming a bad habit that I'd like to nip in the bud. Any advice appreciated thanks.
 
You need to make it a nice experience during the breaking process, make sure her teeth are fine before doing any more with her and then take the bridle apart so it is just the headpiece for now, I then usually undo one side, put the headpiece on and gently slip the bit in from one side with a treat then do it up, if you take your time and avoid a fight she should soon start looking for the treat, accept the bit and you can then start putting it on normally, it may take weeks to get her happy but will be worth taking the time at this early stage.
 
start without nose band. put some honey on the bit. give yourself time.:) oh and as already said, chk teeth. my then 4 yr old arab had the dentist every 3 to 4 months as so sensitive to any edges.
 
^^^ as above...

If you teach a head down command with a treat and a scratch and break down the process step by step it'll be so much easier.

I did it with my little mare so that my son could reach and do it too.
 
Im 5ft 4 and never had a problem with any horses i broke myself, even a couple of 17hh ones. When introducing the bridle I always drop the cheekpieces a couple of holes and do them up again once the bridle is on. Stops any discomfort when putting it over the ears. I also always give a titbit while putting the bit in the mouth.
 
Could always try bit butter, I had one that was mint flavoured for my exie who was 4. If not, honey could work!
 
clicker training worked for mine. watch some videos on u tube and the BEVA ones called don't break your vet. its excellent. mine now lowers his head and opens his mourth for the bit.
 
Downton Dame said:
clicker training worked for mine. watch some videos on u tube and the BEVA ones called don't break your vet. its excellent. mine now lowers his head and opens his mourth for the bit.
Click to expand...

I was going to say the same. I dont do clicker training (yet) but I watched those videos and will be implementing some of their training ideas :)
 
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