Sitemaps

What bit should I use for my horse2007-11-24 21:21:17

I have a 23yr old gelding and I currently use a D-ring and he chews on the bit and also is very strong headed and really tries to go his way and it is somewhat dificult to get him to go my way at times. I noticed that when I do ground work with him with just a halter and leadrope he does fine until I make him back up then he starts chewing as if he had a bit in his mouth. I understand that it isn't always the bit but I am thinking that maybe I am using the completely wrong bit for him. What kind of bit do you suggest using? Oh, also he is a quarterhorse.

Any ideas?

Answers:

Hi, first of all you need to make sure his wolf teeth have been pulled and that his teeth have been floated. Also, if he is chewing or nervous when backing up he may have pain in his back. You can check this by running your thumb and index finger from his croup up his backbone to his withers. (do this lightly and if he reacts by crouching down or buckling his knees, his back is sore).

Otherwise, all of this withstanding, if you are trail riding, a tom thumb short shank bit (this has a snaffle or broken mouthpiece), is a humane and softer bit with a bit of control, as it has a curb strap. On an older horse, a snaffle may be too soft. Also, you may not have a lot of control with a mechanical hackamore unless the horse has been ridden with it before. Try the tom thumb with a loose curb strap (not chain) until you know he accepts it and tighten the curb strap slightly for more control. Remember, you ride your horse with your aides: voice, body, upper and lower legs, and as little as possible with "soft hands". Good luck. :^)

---

Try a mechanical hackamore?