"Hi, my name is Katie and my pony, Ginger, will not hold his head in at all when I am riding him. I have tried many methods, such as squeezing on the reins, using training reins, and side reins. However, his head will not budge. I have had him for three years and have not even got close to having his head in! Help me please! Thank you." Katie

H&C blogger and Olympic eventer Sharon Hunt replies: "Hi Katie, thanks very much for your question. I’ll certainly try to help. I want to put a few questions to you, which I hope will give you some ideas to consider.

I wonder if you have you had Ginger’s teeth checked by a dentist recently? Also, what about body work i.e. have you ever had him checked over by a physiotherapist or a chiropractor? It’s often useful to check whether or not there are any physical reasons that make it difficult for him to form a proper outline; if so then these can be treated and rectified and if not, then it’s good to be able to rule these sorts of reasons out.

In addition, I’d recommend having your saddle checked to ensure it’s comfortable for him. Also, good biting is important – maybe you could try a rubber pelham that can help him to be softer as long as he’s going forwards. In addition, have you thought about trying a new trainer? Not every trainer will gel with every horse or pony, so this might be something to consider.

In terms of exercises, you might like to try lunging with draw reins from the top of roller through to the bit and then down between his front legs – not tight to start with and it’s paramount to make sure he goes forward! Aim to do lots of transitions and work that’s not too taxing to help soften him. If this works, lunge him each time before you ride him until he is easier.

Don't be too hung up on his head carriage, a horse is only soft by having a connection from back to front through his whole body. It could be he's not going forward and this could be causing your problems or that Ginger is too forward so you're always pulling. The mouth really is the last part of roundness – it is achieved through the body being soft. Make sure he's supple, goes off your leg forwards and sideways and this should help too.

Best of luck Katie!

Best wishes,
Sharon"