BITS

[MiLo Minis]

Well said, Lori.

If she remains soft on the bit, steerable, and will stop and stand or walk when requested, is it really so bad if she's a bit speedy for awhile? Just something to ponder.

It sounds like you've done great with her and I bet she's a fun little horse.

Leia

Thanks Leia! It is sort of the same when you ask the reverse of them - to go too fast before they are ready for it. Horses need to build up the strength over time to carry themselves in balance and if we ask them for a less natural gait before they are ready we can frighten them because they feel unbalanced and out of control. It is more important in the beginning to achieve relaxation than a fast or slow gait. I realize this horse in the post has been driving for some time but was it correct driving? If as the poster says she was used for racing then it is going to be much like reschooling a Thoroughbred or Standardbred off the track when working with her. You may need to send her to a professional trainer to get her more in a frame of mind for you to drive.