QUESTION: I am new to dressage and showing. How can I get a dressage headset on my horse in preparation for going to shows? What equipment will I need to purchase? Draw reins? Side reins? Special bits? Thanks for the help!
Answer submitted by Kerry Petty:
That special look that a dressage horse is identified by is many times that beautiful head and neck - I agree is it magnificent, however it is not a headset. A set head would be rigid and held in place where as the beautiful head and neck I am certain you are looking for is obtained by a horse stretching over his topline by reaching under with his hind leg with energy coming through the horse.
The ' word' headset is a 'bad' word to a dressage judge or trainer and we will steer you toward asking how can I get my horse coming from behind or how can I get my horse through. The latter terms show that your understand that impulsion coming from behind helps the horse to stretch and reach for the reins and thus produces the dressage head and neck.
It is short, quick, unethical approach to pull the horse's head in as some do, or see- saw them down, or use draw reins or other devices to force the horse to tuck his head in. This will ruin the horse as this pressure deadens the mouth, drops the horse's back and produces tightness and tension.
Saying all of this I must say that many do what you are asking and they may get away with it at the lower levels but as the horse's back is never developed they will no go further than 1st level if that. They will also have back and hock problems start to develop.
Riding dressage correctly is a long process. The good news is it produces and beautiful and sound horse if done correctly. You don't need a special bit (any snaffle will do) and side reins with a donut may be used when lunging to help to teach the horse to stretch to the bridle.
The test, including the stretching circles, was put in to demonstrate to the judge that you are riding correctly and that your horse is allowed to stretch to the bridle. If the horse just keeps his head where it is the judge realizes that the training of this horse is incorrect.
Answer submitted by Diane Marcina:
Please, please, please, PLEASE do not do that to your horse!!!!
There is no such thing as a dressage head set. If you can’t ride your horse in a simple snaffle bit, then there is a problem with your lack of experience, NOT your horse. Beginner dressage riders want results right away, proper riding takes a long time to achieve, and IS NOT accomplished w/training gadgets
I would strongly suggest you take the money you want to spend on this stuff and take some lessons w/ a GOOD dressage trainer, or attend/audit a dressage clinic w/an internationally recognized upper level rider. You can not understand how to accomplish your goals w/out seeing it done and having it explained to you near a horse.
It’s almost impossible to explain in writing to a beginner (and your question shows you as such) about riding a horse from behind and achieving a lowered nose because the horse is coming over his back.
Answer submitted by Margaret Spencer:
Lets start with the easy part first. No draw reins, side reins, or special bits unless you do not currently own a plain snaffle that is not a western curb.
Second, let’s think about what a dressage judge is looking for. Most people look first at the head or face of the being (human or animal) to determine recognition or appeal. We therefore tend to look at the head of a horse to sense their qualities. A dressage judge looks at the entire animal but mostly at the carriage and engagement. This means the body and hind legs are of
greatest consideration. At training level one of the first requirements is regularity or rhythm. That is the movement of the legs in a consistent timing. When the horse has a solid rhythm they will develop balance and begin to carry themselves with more power from the hind legs. All of this leads to and is presented by the head carriage. The head and neck are the result of the rest of the body and not the place to start in creating a dressage presentation. I admire your spirit, it will take you far.
Lastly, my advice is to seek a very good instructor, spend your time and money taking their advice, and learn more about what dressage is asking and how to develop yourself and your horse. A great horseman once said, gadgets are an excuse for poor riding.
Remember to enjoy the process, the growth, and the development for both yourself and your horse.
Answer submitted by Tracy Rowe McEwan:
In Dressage you do not create a "headset" you achieve a working frame by riding the horse up into the bit with your seat and legs. Your hands receive the power you create and the horse then will put him/herself on the bit. I very rarely work on putting a horse on the bit as a trainer. I do much more work engaging the hindquarters which in turn creates a nice round working frame. This prevents any resistance in the horse which is the ultimate goal.
All you need as far as equipment is a plain snaffle bridle that is well fitted and adjusted, a good fitting saddle and a good trainer to help teach you how to do this.
As a trainer of many horses from green to Grand Prix I have NEVER used draw reins, martingales or any of that type of equipment. Side reins are only used in special cases. I find it is much easier NOT to use special equipment in the long run.
Good Luck and Happy riding!