Sitemaps

Whats the softest bit on a horses mouth2007-11-24 21:22:45

I am working with an older horse who has basically been a pasture puff for the past few years, ridden very little and when ridden, with too much force. I am riding with a D-ring snaffle bit, with which I use very little pressure. I know he needs lots of work, but in the mean time, I was wondering if anyone recommends using a rubber snaffle bit. Is that more comfortable? I want to make training as positive an experience for him as possible. Thanks. Also, what are some good types of back support for an older horse, ie pads etc etc?

Answers:

many bits are uncomfortable for a horse as they pinch at the sides and in the middle. myler bits were designed not to pinch and has many to choose from. you can choose bits that take pressure off the mouth and place it on the poll, nose or chin. These are good if you have a horse with no mouth, as many horses who have been jerked around in the mouth no longer respond to conventional bits. Im also a huge fan on augrian bits. Sprenger makes a beautiful loose ring snaffle with a little bobble in the middle. These bits don't pinch either and the metal moistens the horses mouth. I have had very, very good results with these bits. As for back support, make sure the saddle is fitting properly first. you can get a saddle fitter out to check this. In addition the Cashel cushions are great. They take all the pressure off of pressure points are are really good if you saddle is not an exact fit.

---

The Turbo lifter bits are my bit of choice. They exert way less pressure on the mouth (about (90% less) than a conventional bit. I usually use two pads on my horses, but any good thick pad should work fine for training. Good Luck!

---

A good snaffel bit should be ok or you could try riding without a bit.

---

you could try bitless, i personally never use a bit. or you could try a sweet iron snaffle with copper inlays (feels and tastes better to the horse)

---

If the horse is not exhibiting any resistance that you think is specifically related to the bit, I would not worry too much. A plain D snaffle is a gentle bit, and if you are using light contact and rein aids, and the bit fits reasonably well (not too wide, not too narrow) then you are not causing him any discomfort.