bits...reccomendations pls.

N

noodle_

Well-Known Member
Joined
29 October 2010
Messages
5,083
Location
Earth...
Visit site
My mares 5 and a fairly sensitive little soul :rolleyes: - ive been thinking about trying bitless for a long time now as she needs to learn to go forward more and the slightest touch on the reins, she stops...

So in my genius (blonde) idea i thought bitless id try...I walked her round in hand for a bit then hopped on...

We spent the first 5 minutes going backwards... sideways and attempting to throw her head up and im sure shoulders and middle were not too far behind... :rolleyes: I did manage to get a couple of circles out of her -(eventually) praised her and got off.

So... i think im trying a different type of bit (again) with her... as she was NOT happy in this - i know her well enough now not to push it.

the trouble i have is shes sensitive (her teeth are fine they have been done 2 months ago), however at the same time - if she dosent like something she will grab the bit and i cannot do anything to get her attention back... (hence bitless)!

Ideas of bits please... I do have breaks except when she grabs the bit which really pisses me off... however when i did try her bitless she was trying to grab the bit in her mouth and just basically mouth it!?!?

OH - i generaly ride in a full cheek snaffle - she used to go beautifully in this... and i do prefer the idea of bitless but......
 
Personally I wouldn't go down the bit less route on a youngster, she needs a mouthing bit in my opinion, try talking to somebody at The Bit Exchange they offer fantastic advise, I used a loose ring roller centre happy mouth bit with my youngster which was gentle enough to suit her.
 
Can I ask what type of bitless bridle did you use? Also was this your first time with bitless as well as your horses??

The reaction you have described from your horse being bitless to me suggests that either she didn't like the action of that particular bridle (there are a fair few different types about now) or the bridle was not fitted correctly, which is absolutely vital.
 
Some horses just don't seem to like bitless. Personally I'd be inclined to stick with a simple mild bit and look at the noseband, when you say she grabs the bit is she crossing her jaw?

I'd probably stick with the full cheek if she was going well in this and try a grackle or drop noseband and see what difference it makes.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top