Don't loose hope and don't rush
True story... I have had my OTTB for 8 months now (doesnt time fly!!) and have had lessons EVERY week since I have had him! Circles, transitions, halts, walks, trots, circles, backing, circles, flexing, transitions... did I meantion circles and transitions? lol
It was LITERALLY last Sunday when my boy 'finally' dropped his head and actually 'went on the bit'... it was only for about 6 steps (it would have been longer but both my Instructor and I WHOOPPEED so loudly he stuck his head straight back up wondering what the hoo-ha was about! ROFL
We probably set him back 2 months... but it was worth it!! hahaha
In all seriousness... it can take time but once they 'get it' it will happen fairly quickly from there... I figure we will have it sorted by 2011
A good instructor is the way to go... and lots, and lots, and lots of asking the right thing - the right way.
Best of luck
JustJam