Willow1234
New User
Recently started working with a horse that wont take the bit- it will take time and effort, but I wanted to know how everyone else usually handles this, maybe see if I should modify my methods a little.
Bitting the stubborn horse
- Thread starter Willow1234
- Start date
TheMule
Well-Known Member
I usually offer it with a polo. Might not be the most 'Correct' way to do it, but it generally works!
Widgeon
Well-Known Member
Yes. Something tasty on your palm underneath the bit then slide it in as the horse opens its mouth for the treat. Then shovel in another one to reinforce the good behaviour (I have no idea if the last bit is bad practice!)
MidChristmasCrisis
Well-Known Member
Apple or a sugar lump just before offering the bit..just to sweeten the deal and create saliva.
C1airey
Well-Known Member
Offered with either a treat underneath in the palm of my hand, or with a little treacle daubed on the bit.
If this is an established horse deciding against work (assuming no other issues), I wiggle a thumb in at the corner of the lips and slip the bit in when they open their mouth.
If this is an established horse deciding against work (assuming no other issues), I wiggle a thumb in at the corner of the lips and slip the bit in when they open their mouth.
Teaboy
Well-Known Member
Is this a horse that has been in work a while or one being started?
Either way I would treat the same to be honest but might look more into why they don’t want to accept the bit if they are a ridden horse already.
What does he do when he won’t take the bit? Just clamp his mouth shut? Raise his head? there’s a few things you can do but it depends on how he’s evading.
Either way I would treat the same to be honest but might look more into why they don’t want to accept the bit if they are a ridden horse already.
What does he do when he won’t take the bit? Just clamp his mouth shut? Raise his head? there’s a few things you can do but it depends on how he’s evading.