Use
Aids to Prevent Hard Mouth
© 1998 Cherry Hill
www.horsekeeping.com
A horse with a "hard mouth" does not respond to rein aids. Usually
a horse develops a hard mouth by a rider who uses the bit harshly and when the
horse still doesn't respond properly, a more severe bit is used.
The best way to minimize your dependency on the bit to control a horse is to emphasize
the use of your other aids: you weight, your back, your seat, your legs.
The more you "aid" or "cue" your horse with these parts of
your body, the less you will have to rely on the bit to signal him. The
bit and bridle should just guide him. Rather
than thinking about changing bits or using a "stronger" bit so you can
control your horse, try and make everything else "right" first and then
look to the bit. Ask your riding instructor, trainer, 4-H
leader or Pony Club leader to help you determine if the bit is appropriate and
properly fitted. 
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