Help....I don't know what I'm doing

[kty82]

I have a just 4 TBx trotter mare, who is currently ridden in very basic tack. She's only just starting out and was wondering before she’s sent off to pony school, what the best options in terms of bit/ bridle would be.

she's very mouthy, opens her mouth when I apply more pressure etc. I'm really keen to do the right thing by her and use as little extras as pos. I've read that horses shouldn’t need said extras if they're schooled/ treated correctly???

Am i doing the right thing? She isn’t showing any major signs, I seem to have breaks, has tried little rears when over excited (only once), holds head high and mouth open at times.

she was backed last year, has had little schooling and ridden in a jointed french snaffle.

Thanks All

 

[Morgan123]

agree to keep the tack to a minimum. Sounds like you need to be REALLY careful to release the pressure on her mouth as soon as she slows down (so that she doesn't feel she needs to open her mouth to fight against you) and to make sure you do lots of really positive enforcing of her slowing down and that you'll end up iwht a nice light-mouthed horse if you're careful. Suggest getting lessons as it really hleps to have someone on the floor to remind you to release the pressure etc!

 

[Magnetic Sparrow]

The 'gadget' I would recommend is a neck strap. An old stirrup leather round the neck is a great way of encouraging a green horse to come back to you without touching the mouth and doubles as a useful tool if things start to go t*ts up.

 

[all about Romeo]

I have my TB in a happymouth loose ring jointed snaffle with flash strap to stop him getting hold of the bit... and he seems happy with this (he is very sensitive in the mouth.)
I would also recommend using a martingale, breastplate or neck strap. (I have mine in a breastplate)

Good luck x

 

[kirstykate]

If the mouth is open shut it!!