ridecamp@endurance.net: Bitting problem

Bitting problem

elammal@erols.com
Wed, 19 Mar 1997 21:24:40 -0500

In addition to Raymond Santana's good advice there are several other things
to think about where the bit is concerned. While lowering the head and neck
does allow the back to stretch and free up the hindquarters, some horses
will pull down to escape using the back and/or hindquarters. In my
experience as a trainer, about 90% of bitting problems are related to the
back in one way or another - either a physical discomfort or a resistance.
Pulling down often throws the weight more onto the shoulders, thus
eliminating the use of the back.

Yes, the rein up is a good way to lighten the forehand. It also prevents
the horse from dropping the bit and thus escaping it. As the horse "takes
hold of the bit" you can then move your hand forward as much as he will take
to help the horse extend the neck outward- the first part of stretching the
back.

Another step is to add more leg when the horse pulls down at the same time
stretching the rein foreward. Engaging the hindquarters further under the
horse will help lengthen the frame and lighten the forehand, causing the
horse to lift the head and neck to a more balanced position.

In all of this work, it is very important not to use the reins in such a way
that they will shorten the neck, as that will contract the back and compound
the problem.

Beverley

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