Help please!! Crossing jaw problem!!

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harrypotter

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My new horse is trying his hardest to evade the bit, even in a flash noseband, by crossing his jaw, throwing his head up and pulling!!

His teeth were looked at in his vetting last week, he said that his teeth were ok.

He seems worse when hacking, than in the arena! He does have a hard mouth, and can be strong at times... I am worrying now that I may have a control issue, as he gains more confidence in his new surroundings.

Please help, any advice would be great.....
 
Thanks for that.. I thought a grackle would be more suitable...

I will try it, just didn't want to change too much soon, with him only arriving last week...
 
Maybe try a grackle rather than a flash. A grackle is designed for horses who cross their jaws to evade the bit, a flash just clamps the mouth closed. I would also have a look at his bitting, and get the help of a good instructor, who will work through your problems, and advise you suitable tack/feed etc. Plus if his saddle hasn't been fitted properly this may be adding to your problems, so find a saddle fitter with a good reputation and get their opinion. If you still have problems I get your vet to refere(sp) your horse to a physio, just to make sure there are no back problems.
 
Yep, try a grackle
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I have read that it can be because I have poor hands when I am riding, could this be the case? Any suggestions?

I think it is going to be trial and error with him!!
 
[ QUOTE ]
I have read that it can be because I have poor hands when I am riding, could this be the case? Any suggestions?

I think it is going to be trial and error with him!!

[/ QUOTE ]

The only way you can know that for definite is to get some lessons with a good instructor.
 
My boy likes the N-S Demi-anky bit and no flash at all, so maybe it's worth experimenting with different bits. I appreciate he is getting stronger, but sometimes going for a softer bit makes things better.
 
You could try a hackamore until he settles - worked very well for my strong, sharp TB x Welsh, totally removes the point of crossing the jaw, and may well help your hands if they are part of the problem - make you concentrate on using your body more.
 
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