Short backed horse...

[Creed]

Any type of dressage saddle I put on my appendix gelding puts immense pressure on his loins. Dressage saddles are deeper which make them longer. In order for one to fit me it hurts him!
I squeezed into small 16" to try it and he was fine but I need at least an 18"
I use shock absorbing pads and half pads, nothing helps, it's bridging between withers and loins , hardly touching his actual back at all!
I can't afford a custom made saddle so what are some tips to get a dressage saddle in my boy??

 

[PucciNPoni]

I have a short backed PbA, who fits best in 16,5 but my backside/leg requires a 17.5. I have found what works for us wasn't particularly cheap - but went with a Reactor Panel saddle. You might be able to find one second hand on ebay. I absolutely love mine, but it is very heavy I'm afraid. I think there is a newer lighter weight one out now.

Since getting mine the atrophy at his shoulder and lumps at his loin have disappeared. He now has a nice medium trot where before he would just set off bronking or would hollow and come above the bridle.

Sorry, not sure that's what you're wanting to hear.

 

[Kat]

I have a similar problem (or rather the husband does) so I am going to try a solution saddle.

 

[Louby]

I had the same problem and unfortunately the solution wasnt a cheap one, although you may be able to get a 2nd hand one. It was the sweeping back style of the Jaguar, Amerigo type saddles. This meant I had more room as the panels swept back off his back towards the cantle. They also do various tree shapes to accommodate dippy backs, flat backs etc.

 

[Archiepoo]

i have the same problem and have found the best saddles are lemetex ,keifer,ideal jessica . my horse has a steep short wither and a banana shaped back . i actually sent photos of my horses back from different angles to the master saddler at saddles direct and they were very helpful and the saddles they recommended all fit ,but the lemetex fits best -i got one second hand on ebay for £150 !! saddles are dirt cheap at the minute

 

[MagicMelon]

I know you say you cant afford a custom made saddle, but maybe your budget would stretch to a second hand WOW? I ended up getting one for my very short backed horse - its got a 17" seat for me with 16" panels for him. I bought all the parts off Ebay etc. - cost me about £1,200 in total but its a saddle for life as with future horses I'll just change the odd part as required.