I am having trouble with him throwing his head back when you stop

QUESTION: 

Mark-I have a 10 yr. old gelding I just got 6 wks. ago. I am having trouble with him throwing his head back when you stop. I had his teeth looked at and all they needed was floating. What can I do to keep his head down when you go to stop? Thanks. Mitchell

ANSWER: 

Hi Mitchell,

Try using an easier bit to start with and eventually graduate into more bit if necessary. It sounds like he is either not trained correctly or has picked up some bad habits along the way. Using a snaffle allows one to pull harder on them if necessary without messing up their mouth. Once they understand whoa and pulling, you should be able to use any bit you desire. If still having problems, refer to www.4ahorse.com and look in your state and area and get some help from an AQHA professional horseman, with training, lessons, or advice.

Thanks…

Mark