Hi Linda,
Are you sure that the size and the fit of the bit are correct?
Sweet iron should help the horse to produce more saliva, there is a chemical process involved here, so it might just be unpleasant to your pony.
Is it you were unhappy with your original bit, or what made you change bits in the first place.
Go back to your old bit and see if the undesirable behavior disappears.
Did you try Monty's sweet iron and copper bit?
So many questions, I hope they help you find the best solution for your pony.
Miriam

Hi Miriam , thanks for your response . I was happy enough with his original bit, I just thought I would try the sweet iron as I know horses r supposed to like them. I will go back to my original bit and see how it goes. Thank you

Miriam,

Maybe this is a good opportunity to explore going with a bitless bridle such as the Nauturala or Dr. Cook?

Hi medicinalarts,
Sure you could try to go bitless, I must admit I do not have the experience, but it's worth the try. I'd go back to the original situation first and establish a good relationship, before changing to another unknown one. Seeing the horse's reaction is the best indication where to go next. Stay safe,
Miriam

Hi Linda
How did it go when you went back to your original bit.

Did you check your new bit to make sure it had a nice balance to it?
Did you check your new bit for any defects?

All my horses love their sweet iron bits. Each horse has had their favorite shape and style.

How would i know which bit is best for my horse? She gives no bother but doesn't like to take it into her mouth and chews at it when it's there.
This is our first horse about 6 weeks ago but i've done the join up and love monty's methods. At present she has a snaffle bit which looks a little like brass.

Brentgoose
Any bit you use must fit the horses mouth correctly. It must be wide enough so that it does not pinch the mouth. It must fit correctly, too loose or too tight. When the bit is in the horses mouth there should be small smile marks at the corner of his mouth. If there are non the bit is hanging too loose and will bang around in his mouth. If the corners are wrinkled heavily the bit is hanging too tight and pulling at the corners which is very uncomfortable for the horse. The lat thing that you should look for is the mildest bit that your horse will respond too. Snaffle bits are not always a good choice for a person with heavy hands, in that the break in the snaffle if pulled hard bangs the roof of the horses mouth. One of the most sever appearing bits, the Spanish Spade bit, when used correctly, never puts pressure to the horses mouth. It is called a signaling bit in that the slightest movement transmits to the horses mouth, so very steady light hands are a must

As far as your horse not liking the bit may be a result of being hurt by the bit in the past. Using either a sweet iron bit with copper of stainless steel with copper are good choices. I would get a bit that fits properly then hang the bit in the horses mouth without reins and let him get use to the feel of the bit. Horses will mouth their bit when they are either nervous or when they are happy and calm. You will sense the difference by how their body feels. If it is supple and flexible, they are happy campers. If they are ridged and stiff they my be nervous, or just plain cranky and not enjoying himself.

Hope this helps you

Cheers

Thanks Denis. I will have a look at Kara's mouth later to check out what you have said. Hopefully she is just mouthing her bit and is quite happy. It's probably just because we're so new to the actual hands on caring for a horse after school ponies. The folk at the livery are really exceptionaly helpful, but I seem to be the only one who aspires to Monty's principles. Does anyone know how widespread his ideas are?

Hi Denis. Had a look at Kara's mouth - It looks fine.
Also tried putting on the bridle as shown by monty in the long lining lesson. it has transformed the experience to something pleasant. Many thanks for your help.