Training green horse

Question
Hi Mitzi,
I posted a question last year and was impressed with your answer. I really would like to rate your answer but is not so clear on how to do it.  I have a new one for you.  We have a 5year old Hanovarian/Appoloussa mare who I believe is the matriag  of our herd of 4, lovely horse with good temperament. She was professionally backed and pre-school for 4 months. We gave her a rest for a couple of months and she is now in training for about 3 months. We have a very competent rider with very soft hands riding her and she doing well (is forwards going)  We have one problem her head carriage -in the walk it's fine but the trot is a disaster -she hollows and goes around with her head in the air.  She has a very strong thick neck and we were told by the trainers who did her pre-schooling that she would be a problem to get on the "bit"  It's now 3 months and I am afraid she is building the wrong muscles.  Any ideas?

Answer
In my opinion if ridden correctly and with the correct muscling, a horse will go "on the bit" when it is supple enough, strong enough, and has the proper muscling.

If she is hollowing at the trot it may well be for a couple of reasons. Her back may be sore. Are you sure that the saddle fits? I would have a chiropractor look at her.Another reason may
be the rider's seat or even her hands. You say she has soft hands...but make certain that she has an independent seat and encourages the horse to go forward into light contact. The horse either does not trust going forward into contact or her back may be sore.

I would also probably try a Bitless Bridle with her or a sidepull. Her bit may be bothering her, she may need her teeth floated, or she may have an injury to her mouth.

I would correctly lunge her more, encouraging her to go "long and low" but do not put side reins or any type of head setting device on her. This would be a serious mistake at this point.

She has not really been ridden all that long to expect her to be ready to go on the bit, especally if her conformation is not condusive to it.With her thick neck the "long and low' is really important. Be careful not to shorten the neck  by asking for collection and contact too soon. Your rider may well want to also ride him in a light seat.
Let me know how it goes...............www.MitziSummers.com