Bringing the head in?

[ilovehorses<3]

Hi, i have an 7 year old mare and only recently have i started realizing that her head sticks out and that this couldn't be comfortable for her and her mouth. So i tried to bring her head in my using my leg and reins, when this didn't work i enlisted the help of an instructor, this instructor said that my mare has a very hard mouth and nothing could be done. I just wanted a second opinion and any ideas on what to do? Thanks

 

[Jennyharvey]

Any horse can be taught to be soft, no matter the training they have had. You need to find yourself a good trainer who can help you, and also you need to fully understand how the horse responds to your reins. Its not just about pulling her head in. Its about teaching her to respond correctly, and lightly, instead of resisting.

 

[attheponies]

Agree with Jennyharvey, it's as much about the legs and seat as the hands. Not an expert myself but think perhaps another trainer who understands schooling would be a start, also you would probably get many more responses in New Lounge.

 

[Piglit]

I would suggest that if your concern is 'bringing the head in' then you're not in the best place to start solving the problem as there is, in this instance, a grave misunderstanding of what it means. Far more concerning is this so called trainer's response. You responded in absolutely the right way by seeking to learn and get advice, sounds like you went completely to the wrong person, which is not your fault.

There is NO reason at all why your mare shouldn't be able to learn how to be soft and supple through her body and mouth. That's rubbish. Where abouts in the country are you and I'm pretty sure that someone on here can point you in the direction of someone who will be able to help. First off get all her tack checked to make sure that it all fits.