Tongue over bit

[suef1]

Any ideas on how to stop horses getting their tongues over the bit or bits to use to help prevent it ( would help if they are dressage legal) At the moment my 16 yr old TB mare is ridden in a hanging cheek but with a port in it. She seems to really like this and goes well in it apart from the odd bit of putting her tongue over! She wont take any contact while its over but isnt naughty at all- just dont want her to do it x country.

She is evented upto BE Novice level and has only once got her tongue over at a competition (just before her dressage test!!)

I think she does it for a bit of a laugh really but does anyone have any ideas?

 

[the watcher]

What kind of noseband are you using? Can she still do it even with a flash

 

[suef1]

Using a flash noseband. I've tried it really tight and really loose- she seems to do it more when its tight as I think she feels more restricted.

I've tried bits with a lozenge too as this was recommended but she's really heavy in that where as she's light in the hanging cheek with port.

Its only an occasional thing, I just dont want it to become a habit.

Teeth done every 6 months and I have a treeless saddle which she loves so I dont think she's uncomfortable....

 

[sarahwilkes]

speak to myler

my horse did it all the time flash or not.

put him in a Myler correctional port snaffle and he is fine, and loves the bit too, he is able to swallow better in it.

try this website, you can trial a bit for 3 weeks and exchange if not the right one.

www.abitdifferent.co.uk

good luck !!

 

[0ldmare]

I do sympathise as I have exactly the same problem with my young horse. She is amazingly good at getting her tongue over the bit even with a flash noseband done up very tight. It made no difference at all! I purchased one of the tongue guard things that attach to the bit when I was up at YHL and so far that has worked (one ride only so far, so who knows whether she will find a way!)

 

[elaineh]

Maybe borrow a few different bits from friends, and try them to see whcih is more comfortable for your horse? Horses mouths come in lots of different shapes and sizes so some types of bits wont fit properly due to their design to some mouths, and then other bite work for other horses. Or can you ride and compete in any kind of bitless? That would solve the problem too.