very sensitive!!

[Avp101]

Ive just taken a 17.1 tb x warmblood out on loan and he's very sensitive in the mouth and shakes his head quite alot, ive kept of the reins as much as i can to avoid pulling ect but it hasnt made much of a diffrence, he's had all his checks ect i.e mouth and back, has anyone got any tips on riding with such a sensitive mouth, he's only ridden in a snaffle. Thanks

 

[Surreydeb]

Have you checked the fit of the bit? Is it too small and pinching? I'm sure there are experts on bitting who could advise on what is suitable for a sensitive mouth. Personally all mine have been happy in French links.

 

[Pearlsacarolsinger]

What kind of snaffle, what is the bit made of?

 

[Avp101]

Its a french link and im pretty sure its titanium. Yeah ive checked the fitting and everything seems fine, his previous owner had said he was very light in the mouth but didnt mention that he sticks his head up and shakes quite alot! I know some of it is me getting used to the way he rides as ive always ridden stocky chunky cobs,

 

[Ella19]

Sounds stupid but try riding him in a fly mask. I put my head shaking mare down to sensitivity to the bit, pollen allergy etc for years, turns out she HATES the flies touching her face. A fly mask and nosenet stops it completely. I wish someone told me this years ago!

 

[Dancing Queen]

does he have ear mites?

 

[Pearlsacarolsinger]

If the fly mask doesn't work, I'd try bits made of different materials and different designs, to see which he is more comfortable with.

 

[Luci07]

Could be the opposite, sometimes you need to take a positive contact and ride into the bridle, giving the horse the security of a contact. Having a loose rein is like leaving the decision making upto the horse. I am not advocating a heavy hand but don't throw away your contact either.