Bit problems

[JoanneH71]

Hi can anyone help.
My horse won't take his bit. Everytime I tack him up he clamps his mouth shut and will not take the bit. I have to fight him to get it in his mouth by holding his head down and putting my fingers in his mouth. His teeth have been checked, I've tried a sweet iron bit, rubber bit and various others and still the same. I've put honey and maple syrup on the bit and still no joy. He's the same when I take is bridle off, he clamps his mouth shut.
Any ideas for how I can get him out of this habit?
Help please.
Jo

 

[Enfys]

Hi, does he absolutely have to wear a bit? Perhaps he'd be happier with some sort of bitless bridle, some are - lots of choice to be had.

 

[Eriskayowner]

Jazz was like that when I first took him on but he loves his Myler. You say you've tried different materials but what about different mouthpieces? If you're using a single joint then maybe it's causing pain when hitting the roof of his mouth?

 

[tinkandlily]

I agree with both of these, does he really need to have a bit? i used to ride a mare who would not accept a bit, if i got it in she rear buck and go crazy, but when she went bitless, she was the sweetest pony, she had her mouth checked, and i tried various mouthpieces and putting things on the bit, but she just did not like it. Has he been ridden heavy handed in the past? he may associate it with pain and be better of bitless.

If he does need a bit, then you'll have to experiment with different types untill you find one he likes.