Best dressage legal bit for horse that hangs on the bit

[Cassy]

I ride my chunky mare in a loose ring french link but she rarely softens to the bit. I watched my instructor riding her today and her mouth with no flash noseband just remains fixed and shut except when she tried rein back then she opened her mouth and stuck her head up before taking a few reluctant steps back. Someone suggested trying a sweet iron and copper bit to try and get her to mouth the bit. Her teeth have been checked and no problems there. Any suggestions please.

 

[LeannePip]

does she foam up at all?

generally the resistance in the mouth is a training issue but trying a sweet iron would be worth a try and is unlikely to do any harm, and could be the initial step to over coming the tension.

Just remember copper/ SI mouthpieces are OK for dressage but as long as the whole mouth piece is one metal it cannot be a mix of two

 

[be positive]

does she foam up at all?

generally the resistance in the mouth is a training issue but trying a sweet iron would be worth a try and is unlikely to do any harm, and could be the initial step to over coming the tension.

Just remember copper/ SI mouthpieces are OK for dressage but as long as the whole mouth piece is one metal it cannot be a mix of two

A mix is allowed now and has been for some time, I like the sweet iron and copper french link it does encourage them to mouth the bit and create saliva if they are dry mouthed.