bitting for the first time (age and bit)

[sian_x101]

What would you suggest would be the best sort of bit to put in a youngsters mouth for the first time?
And...
What would be the ideal age that you would say would be best to start getting a youngster used to the bit?

 

[xnaughtybutnicex]

maybe a copper bit(snaffle) it is warmer than normal metal. I heard putting honey on the bit was a good idea too cos it tastes nice

 

[siani1989]

for mine i had a straight bar mouthing bit

http://www.horsetackinternational.com/images/211565-mouthing-Bit.jpg

and did it at 2yr old due to been very strong and did showing

 

[Maesfen]

For TB yearlings going to the sales or showing in hand, they often use a mullen mouth Happy Mouth which they seem to take to nicely. The noseband is also used, not just the bit rings so it has a gentle feel to it.

 

[bellaboo]

I used a nylon showing bit with the brass rings. She started wearing it as a yearling for control in the showring! Like MFH_09 said we also used to attach the lead rein to the noseband so most of the pressure was on the nose not the mouth.

 

[arwenplusone]

I'm not a fan of the mouthing bits - like MFH_09 mentioned used a straight bar mullen mouth on my yearling when I was showing her. I did try her with a rubber one but the mullen seemed to suit her better

 

[Colleen_Miss_Tom]

Missy never liked the nylon showing bit or any of the mouthing bits , So I got her a kk training bit ( french link loose ring snaffle ) and she mouthes away at it and is quite happy with it .

She was bitted as a yearling due to showing .